Black Owned Business Documentary
It has been shown in history how perplexing it can be for African Americans in the work business, especially when it comes to entrepreneurship. Being black can call for you to work 10 times as hard to grab hold onto certain opportunities. It’s evident that the work that you put forth isn’t easy, but it becomes a satisfying and prideful moment when the recognition and support continues to expand, and you can take the time to tell yourself “I did that!” And the more their business is recognized, the more we can break the stereotypical barriers that the community deals with, knowing how hard it is to gain certain opportunities like these. This photography series is made to show appreciation to Black business owners, and acknowledge the blood, sweat, and tears they had to put forth in order to get them to where they are now as black entrepreneurs, as well as to how their ownership of their business helps give opportunities to other individuals in their community.
Next Level Hair
Alhambra Ali has been a barber since 2005, and his shop, “Next Level Hair,” has been in business since 2012. Ali conveyed the pride that comes when being a black business owner.
“Having my own shop gave me a lot of pride and respect. It’s a lot of hard work, but it’s a lot of pride and ownership, pushing me to keep going everyday.”
— Alhambra Ali
Dice Fit Clothing Line
Deyana Thomas has been running her clothing line, “Dice Fit,” for about 2 years. I asked Deyana what owning her clothing line meant to her as a young black entrepreneur.
“It feels good to know that I can create my own things and have people see my vision. The brand represents taking the risk, and allowing myself to take risks through my business. I am able to prove that I can be myself in my own creative mind without feeling overwhelmed from the expectations of society.”
— Deyana Thomas
3 Dimensions Hair Salon
Tamika Sims is a hair salon owner, who has been running her business, “III Dimensions Salon, for 25 Years. Tamika explained how she moves forward with her hair salon business.
“Being a black business owner, I’m able to give back to my community. I continue to make sure that everybody in my area is unified on a daily basis. I also do my best to help new up and coming stylists to also become black owners.”
— Tamika Sims
