Business Directory
What: Coco and Breezy is a fashion brand founded by twin sisters, Coco and Breezy Dotson, known for their unique and stylish eyewear designs. Their sunglasses and prescription glasses often feature edgy and avant-garde aesthetics.
When: Founded in 2009
What: Coco and Breezy is a fashion eyewear brand that specializes in creating unique and stylish sunglasses. They offer a range of eyewear designs that combine fashion-forward aesthetics with functionality.
Why: The company was started by Corianna and Brianna Dotson with the aim of providing innovative and distinctive eyewear options. The sisters, who are also DJs and artists, sought to bring their creative vision to the fashion industry by designing eyewear that stands out and makes a bold statement. Coco and Breezy's designs are inspired by their love for music, art, and individuality, and they strive to empower individuals to express their unique style through their eyewear.
Where: Coco and Breezy is based in New York City
Coco and Windy Eyewear was established in 2009 by twin originators Corianna and Brianna Dotson. Their initial plans were a moment hit in the diversion and style world, and can be tracked down in most significant distributions, for example Vogue and Harper's Marketplace. Coco and Windy's plans have gone from the "third-eye" shades for the late Sovereign to ongoing joint efforts with Hershey's, Ciroc, and SIX:02. The twins DJ and make visual craftsmanship.
What: Alaffia is a fair trade and ethical brand that offers a wide range of skincare and haircare products made from natural and sustainable ingredients. The company sources many of its ingredients from African communities and is committed to promoting social and economic empowerment.
When: Alaffia was founded in 2004.
Where: Alaffia is based in Olympia, Washington, United States.
Why: Alaffia was started with the purpose of empowering African communities and promoting gender equality and environmental sustainability. The founders, Olowo-n'djo Tchala and Rose Hyde, were inspired to create a company that would address poverty and inequality in West Africa. They established a fair trade cooperative in Togo, Africa, where they source ingredients such as shea butter and coconut oil directly from local farmers. Alaffia's mission extends beyond creating natural and high-quality products; they also work to alleviate poverty, advance educational opportunities, and support maternal and child health initiatives in the communities they work with.
Empowerment Projects are Alaffia’s mission in action, funded by the sales of Alaffia products. Alaffia invests in our communities because it is our moral responsibility and to ensure African resources empower African communities. The goal is to alleviate poverty and encourage gender equality. Our Empowerment Projects include several Education-Based Projects, Maternal Health, FGM Eradication, Eyeglasses and Environmental Sustainability. All of Alaffia’s projects empower Togolese communities to provide their skills and knowledge to the rest of the world and rise out of poverty.
What: Design Dua is a company that specializes in creating beautifully handcrafted and sustainable baby products, particularly bassinets and Moses baskets. They combine traditional African craftsmanship with modern design, offering unique and stylish products for babies.
When: The specific founding date of Design Dua is not provided.
Where: Design Dua is based in the United States.
Why: Design Dua was started with the goal of preserving and promoting traditional African craftsmanship while providing safe and comfortable products for babies. The founders, Kwaku and Akosua Osei-Tutu, were inspired by their own cultural heritage and saw an opportunity to blend their passion for design with sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing practices. Their aim is to offer parents beautifully crafted and eco-friendly baby products that reflect their values of cultural appreciation and sustainability.
What: Natemia is a company that specializes in creating eco-friendly and organic baby care products. They offer a range of products including organic bamboo hooded towels, washcloths, baby hairbrushes, and baby grooming sets. The company focuses on providing safe and gentle products that are free from harmful chemicals, making them suitable for babies' delicate skin.
When: The specific founding date of Natemia is not provided.
Where: Natemia is based in a location that is not specified.
Why: Natemia was started with the aim of offering parents sustainable and safe options for their babies. The company understands the importance of using natural and non-toxic products on babies' sensitive skin. They are committed to
What: Juvia's Place is a cosmetics brand known for its vibrant and highly pigmented makeup products. They offer a range of products, including eyeshadow palettes, highlighters, blushes, foundations, and lip products. The brand focuses on celebrating diversity and empowering individuals to express themselves through makeup.
When: The company was founded in 2016.
Where: HQ in Secaucus, New Jersey, United States
Why: The company was started to address the lack of diversity and representation in the beauty industry. Juvia's Place aims to create makeup products that are inclusive and suitable for all skin tones, with a particular emphasis on providing options for deeper skin tones. They strive to offer quality products at affordable prices, without compromising on vibrant colors and high pigmentation.
What: Offers wireless audio products, including earbuds and headphones.
When: Founded in 2017.
Where: Based in Los Angeles, California.
Why: Created to provide affordable and high-quality wireless audio devices with a focus on modern design and advanced technology.
D’IYANU (dee-ya-nu) is a ready-to-wear bold print clothing line offering quality, trendy African inspired fashion at affordable prices. With her love for fashion and passion for self expression through unique clothing, Nigerian born Addie Ajayi launched the D’IYANU brand at the beginning of 2014. Addie Ajayi(CEO) and her brother Dara Ajayi (President) lead D’IYANU, creating fun, bold, chic clothing and home goods with the goal of inspiring individuals to confidently dress bold and beautifully. All garments are made with great attention to quality.
