“Actions speak louder than words,” is a euphemism children are taught at an early age. After the Black Lives Matter demonstrations last summer, which brought inequities and systemic racism in American society to the forefront, members of the community wondered how they could effect positive change. This Black HIstory Month, it feels especially important to reiterate what it means to support our Black neighbors and business owners with more than just kind words. Taking action means using your dollars and investing in the community to ensure it stays rich with diversity and culture. To mark the annual event, we have taken the opportunity to highlight some of the Black-owned concepts in the area that we love. Visit each of their websites to learn more about how you can shop their products and services.
Red Bloom Spa
Inspired by the joy of health, wellness and beauty, Germaine Williams opened her spa 12 years ago. According to Williams, her goal was to “create a relaxing environment that was informative and supportive of all nationalities.” Services include reiki, nutrition, womb wellness and reflexology. theredbloom.com
Dodo Farms
Olaniyi Balogun brought his love for fresh and natural foods to the U.S. from Nigeria where his agricultural practices spanned over a decade. Today, he shares his passion for healthy eating with area residents via farmer’s markets and CSA deliveries. At his Brookeville farm, Balogun grows seasonal produce free of GMO seeds, chemicals and fertilizers. Dodofarmsmd.com
Passion to Seed Gardening
Growing up in Zimbabwe, Tanya Spandhla would help her parents with chores in their small backyard garden. Longing for a small patch of land to grow similar fresh vegetables in Gaithersburg, Spandhla launched her sustainable grown farming operation in 2015 with produce including: mustard greens, Zimbabwean corn and okra. passiontoseedgardening.net
Nesy Creations
What started as a part time gig, Nesie Njamnsi hopes to make into a full time job this year, expanding her products from jewelry to decorative home and kitchen accessories. It was a desire to look unique, beautiful and elegant that prompted Njamnsi to launch her business. Nesycollection.com
Cyberninjaz Global Inc.
Since 2014, Cyberninjaz has been providing access to STEAM education for underrepresented children in Washington’s Ward 8. The Potomac-based group of educators and professionals are driven by a passion for education equity. In addition to their regularly scheduled summer camp, they now offer virtual programming and private tutoring. Cyberninjaz.com
P.O.M. Squad
Besides being a cheerleading service, P.O.M.’s philosophy is all about empowering the children in the community. Standing for Positive Outcome mentoring, the organization’s instructors instill confidence in young people through dance instruction. Classes incorporate tumbling, hip-hop, jazz and technical work. thepomsquad.org