Empresas locales de propietarios negros para visitar durante el Mes de las Empresas Negras
Black Business Month, celebrated in August, is a significant time to acknowledge and honor the valuable contributions of black-owned businesses. While Santa Monica takes pride in recognizing and appreciating these businesses year-round, August offers a special opportunity to show extra gratitude for their essential role in promoting diversity and equality. Celebrate this month-long event by supporting these businesses and read below to see the incredible impact these visionary businesses have made on our community and beyond.
Bienestar
Gloveworx
Gloveworx is a state-of-the-art boxing studio and athletic performance facility owned by Leyon Azubuike, a former US Nationals Heavyweight competitor. The gym offers three types of classes: large group, small group and one-on-one, all of which combine boxing training with strength and conditioning. The studio’s coaches range from Olympic medalists to boxing champions, bringing a diverse set of skills to create an empowering environment for everyone to reach and exceed their fitness goals.
Inspired Method, Inc.
Método inspirado is led by Jared Rodriguez and his 4-pillar training system that identifies obstacles holding individuals back, helps clarify one’s goals and defines the reason for wanting to achieve these goals. The outdoor fitness bootcamp offers three premier programs: Inspired Bootcamp, 2-Pillar Challenge and Kinstretch, promoting an abundant life through fitness.
King’s Celebrity ATA Martial Arts
From traditional martial arts to contemporary MMA styles, King’s Celebrity ATA Martial Arts is the ultimate training ground for people of any age, at any fitness level. The owner, Master Victor King, is a 6th degree black belt who dreamed of creating an enjoyable environment for students to improve their fitness while building confidence that can be carried into their everyday lives. The studio has a strong focus on personal development and aims to teach confidence, leadership and fitness skills that can only be taught through martial arts.
Tangana Wellness
Isabelle Barros created Tangana Wellness in 2020 to provide valuable and unique wellness gifts for any occasion. Natural and organic single-origin ingredients are used to create fair trade teas, plant-based superfoods, spices, skincare products and more. Tangana Wellness not only promotes physical well-being but also encourages individuals to embrace self-care as an important part of their lives.
Well Ok with Rana K
Owner/Operator Rana Kirkland carries coaching certifications in: Positive Lifestyle, Nutrition, Meditation and Yoga; bringing decades of experience to facilitate wellness programs through private sessions, classes and retreats. With her degree in communications from the University of Southern California as well as a background in the arts, clients can rest assured that their experience will be thoughtful and pleasant. Whether for professional or personal support, Well OK is here for you. With additional caregiving services, clients of all ages can be supported in their daily needs, recovery and wellness profiles.
Beauty
Cuttin’ Up! Barbershop III
Quality haircuts provided by the Cuttin’ Up! Barbershop III owner, Xavier Banister, and other talented barbers. The full-service barbershop specializes in black hair and offers a variety of services for everyone.
Azotando por toda la ciudad
Owner and CEO, Karlene, started Lashing All Over The City to develop her talents as a beauty professional. The business provides premium quality strip lashes, beauty products and professional lash training that empower women with new skills and boosted confidence. The professional eyelash extension services include: Klassic, Hybrid and Volume.
Retail & Activities
Efecto de afirmación
Efecto de afirmación is a small, husband and wife-owned business founded in 2014 by Allister and Denise Hill. Find high-quality inspirational apparel, accessories, and candles that promote positive affirmations of love, beauty and faith. This business spreads uplifting messages while contributing to a culture of positivity and self-love.
Black Santa Monica Tours y Conserjería
Owner Robbie Jones has been hosting historical tours about the Black experience in Santa Monica for over 30 years. Black Santa Monica Tours y Conserjería offer an insightful and educational activity for visitors and locals alike.
Gastronómico
Jus Family Café Coffee Bar
The new Jus Family Café Coffee Bar sobre Bulevar Pico is intentionally designed as a gathering place for dialogue, empowerment and connection, celebrating Black culture while welcoming people of all backgrounds. Founded by Robbie Jones, a longtime Black activist and community leader in Santa Monica, the café serves high-quality coffee and beverages, with a commitment to highlighting Black-owned brands and local vendors. The space also hosts live music, community conversations, cultural programming and events centered around social justice, equity and neighborhood engagement in Santa Monica.
Berbere
Berbere serves only the highest quality vegan ingredients with an Ethiopian twist. Owners Tezeta “Tete” Alemayehu and partner Tsega-Ab “Bicko” Fenta (“T&T”) seek to inspire the community to live healthier lives and do so through their delicious Ethiopian fare. Natural light streams across the restaurant’s two floors, providing a warm and inviting ambiance.
Café Ruisseau
Café Ruisseau is a black-owned family business established by Edward Ackah-Miezah. Their menu offers a large selection of drinks, treats, sandwiches, wraps, salads and more. Cafe Ruisseau is passionate about coffee, culture and community, aiming to be a place where people can connect.
Logan’s Gardens at the Santa Monica Farmers Market
Jimmy and Logan Williams, the father-son duo, well known for their Logan’s Gardens nursery and custom gardens, offer over 1,000 varieties of rare and heirloom edible plants every Wednesday and Saturday at Santa Monica’s Farmers Market. Fixtures at the market, Jimmy and Logan are committed to providing fresh plants and vegetable seedlings, as well as advice to patrons.
Chick-fil-A Santa Monica
Chick-fil-A Santa Monica is a community-focused restaurant serving signature chicken sandwiches, nuggets, salads and more. With this location being owned by Eddie Brown, the team at Chick-fil-A Santa Monica is dedicated to friendly service and hospitality, striving to be a welcoming stop for neighbors, visitors and families. With a passion for quality food and community connection, Chick-fil-A Santa Monica aims to bring people together one meal at a time.
LJ’s Kitchen and Catering
Owned by Laejohnie M Bennett, LJ’s Kitchen and Catering specializes in creating memorable experiences for your taste buds. Originally from Compton, CA, Chef LJ brings nine years of cooking experience to this full-service catering company perfect for weddings, cocktail receptions, dinners, business lunches and more.
Check out more black-owned businesses on the City of Santa Monica’s website and join us in building a thriving community!
