February 1st 2024.
From the moment they entered the scene, Black entrepreneurs have been making waves and paving the way for aspiring creatives. These individuals have brought new eras and ideas to their respective industries, creating a lasting impact that continues to inspire others.
One such trailblazer is Kimberly Bryant, who launched her non-profit organization Black Girls CODE in 2011. Through this initiative, Bryant has transformed the lives of thousands of young Black girls and gender non-conforming youth, reigniting their passion for the tech world. Despite a leadership change in 2023, Bryant remains dedicated to her mission by serving as the CEO of Ascend Ventures and the Black Innovation Lab, opening up opportunities for marginalized tech founders in the southern United States. Her unwavering commitment has earned her recognition, including being named a 2013 White House Champion of Change and receiving the Jefferson Award for Community Service in 2012. Bryant also sits on the board of the Center for Policing Equity, using her influence to drive positive change.
Another remarkable entrepreneur is Olamide Olowe, the founder and CEO of Topicals. In just four years, Olowe has disrupted the beauty industry with her groundbreaking dermal company that caters to all skin types. In 2022, she made history as the youngest Black woman to raise $10 million in funding. With a range of products that cater to diverse skin needs, Topicals has gained a loyal following, with their "Faded" serum receiving high praise for effectively targeting dark spots and discoloration. Not content with just revolutionizing the beauty world, Olowe is also making a difference through her Mental Health Fund, which provides funding to support mental health in marginalized communities. And with Grammy award-winning artist Teyana Taylor as the face of their recent campaign, Topicals shows no signs of slowing down.
In Florida, Derrick McCray is continuing his family's legacy as a third-generation pitmaster and the Senior Owner and CEO of McCray's Backyard BBQ & Seafood. Founded in 1934, this barbecue joint has stood the test of time, witnessing significant events like segregation and the civil rights movement. Today, it remains a cultural staple in West Palm Beach, with a reputation for serving delicious food and providing a welcoming atmosphere. Celebrities like Venus Williams, Magic Johnson, and even President Joe Biden have visited McCray's, making it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. And beyond his successful business, McCray uses his influence to give back to his community, supporting those in need.
Music producer Austin Owens, also known as Ayo The Producer, has made a name for himself by working on Grammy award-winning projects, including Cardi B's Invasion of Privacy album and her hit song "WAP." But now, Owens is embarking on a new journey by opening a recording studio in his hometown of downtown Orlando. Partnering with the owners of The Beacham, a well-known venue in the city's nightlife scene, Owens is set to open Hidden Sound Studios later this year. With his return to his roots, the Orlando music scene is sure to become even more impressive.
The impact of these Black entrepreneurs is undeniable, and their contributions continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations. They have shown that with determination, hard work, and a passion for their craft, anything is possible. And as they continue to make waves and break barriers, they serve as powerful role models for aspiring creatives everywhere.
Since their emergence, Black entrepreneurs have made a significant impact on various industries, paving the way for aspiring creatives to follow in their footsteps. These trailblazers have not only brought new ideas and perspectives to their respective fields, but they have also opened doors for marginalized communities to thrive.
One such entrepreneur is Kimberly Bryant, founder of Black Girls CODE and CEO of Ascend Ventures and the Black Innovation Lab. Bryant launched Black Girls CODE in 2011, and since then, the non-profit organization has made waves in the tech industry, transforming the lives of thousands of young Black girls and gender non-conforming youth. Despite a leadership change in 2023, Bryant has continued her mission by creating more opportunities for marginalized tech founders in the southern United States through her roles at Ascend Ventures and the Black Innovation Lab. Her dedication and impact have been recognized through various awards, including being named a 2013 White House Champion of Change and receiving the Jefferson Award for Community Service in 2012. Bryant also serves as a board member at the Center for Policing Equity.
Another influential entrepreneur is Olamide Olowe, founder and CEO of Topicals, a dermal company that caters to all skin types. In just four years, Olowe has disrupted the beauty industry and made history as the youngest Black woman to raise $10 million in funding. Topicals has gained a loyal following with its innovative products, such as the “Faded” serum, which targets dark spots and discoloration. The company has also made an impact through its Mental Health Fund, which recently awarded funding to five women-founded organizations supporting mental health in marginalized communities. Topicals continues to make waves, with Grammy award-winning artist Teyana Taylor as the face of their latest campaign.
Derrick McCray, senior owner and CEO of McCray’s Backyard BBQ & Seafood, is a third-generation pitmaster carrying on his family’s legacy. The restaurant, founded in 1934, has stood the test of time, serving as a refuge for Floridians during times of segregation and the civil rights movement. Today, McCray’s Backyard BBQ & Seafood is not only a cultural staple in West Palm Beach but also a favorite among celebrities and athletes, including Venus Williams, Magic Johnson, and President Joe Biden. McCray also uses his platform to give back to the community, using his influence to help those in need.
Music producer Austin Owens, known as Ayo The Producer, has made a name for himself by producing hit songs for artists like Cardi B and Doja Cat. Now, Owens is embarking on a new venture by opening a recording studio in his hometown of downtown Orlando. The studio, called Hidden Sound Studios, is a partnership with the owners of The Beacham, a popular nightlife spot in the city. With Owens' return to his roots, the Orlando music scene is set to become even more impressive.
These four Black entrepreneurs are just a small representation of the many individuals who have made a significant impact in their industries and communities. Through their hard work, dedication, and innovation, they have paved the way for future generations to follow in their footsteps and continue to break barriers.
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