Mielle Organics Founder Opens Up About Their Acquisition By P&G
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

August 2, 2023

Mielle Organics Founder Opens Up About Their Acquisition By P&G

Founder and CEO of Mielle Organics, Monique Rodriguez, opens up about the major decision to sell her popular haircare company to P&G Beauty earlier this year. She referred to the move as “business success” and one she hopes the Black community sees more of.

Rodriguez spoke with AfroTech about what led her to accept the acquisition and give back to the Black community by leaving a successful legacy.

Faith—in herself and her idea for a haircare product business—came into full focus after losing her son due to a high-risk pregnancy. Despite being new to brand development, the CEO turned to all methods to obtain knowledge, such as listening to podcasts, attending seminars, and reading books on the subject. Her hard work turned into an overnight sensation through social media chatter.

“And in turn, that painful situation allowed me to ultimately be led to my purpose to impact and inspire lives all across the world,” expressed the wife and mother. “And the vessel to do so has been my haircare company.”

Since its establishment in 2014, Rodriguez and her husband have learned a valuable lesson in the financial tradeoffs of marketing. While Mielle Organics was known nationwide, it was failing to turn a profit due to the allocated funding,

“That’s why I say people see the glory, but they don’t know that on the back end. As we were trying to get the brand out there and spending big bucks to make sure that Mielle is a household name, our financial books were suffering.”

Then, the company weighed multiple risks over rewards, including turning down an initial offer to be sold in Walmart stores. However, their smart financial assessment and desires for their company’s leadership led to its acquisition by Procter & Gamble in January 2023.

While the decision made headlines as naysayers wanted the company to stay Black-owned, the former nurse came to her own conclusion on the matter.

“What I want our community to understand is that this is the normal trajectory of business,” Rodriguez said. “This is what business success looks like. And this stuff happens all the time in other cultures, other races. The problem with our community is that we don’t see it enough because there are not enough Black entrepreneurs that are getting to the point where they can scale and have acquisitions such as these.”

Rodriguez wants members of the Black community to encourage one another to make weighty business goals before rushing to critique, as she is now creating generational wealth for her family through her deal with Procter and Gamble.

RELATED CONTENT: WNBA Drafts Mielle Organics As First Textured Haircare Partner

outdoor
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

August 2, 2023

Conservatives Mock Validity Of Racism In Outdoor Spaces

Conservatives decided to try “dragging” Black people’s genuine concern of racial harassment in outdoor activities. After NBC News released an article featuring Black outdoorsy groups that aimed to make nature activities fun and safe for everyone, conservatives went to Twitter to express their disbelief.

The claim that healing was needed in the historical dynamic of minorities and the woods was unfathomable to commenters. One undermined or out(alt)right ignored the experiences of Black nature-lovers who encountered racial harassment by sarcastically stating the outdoors is “racist.” However, Black people are basing these feelings on their experiences ranging from Trump flags at public campgrounds or unnecessary police presence whenever a large group of Black people does an outdoor activity. Naysayers flocked to joking about the matter, which could lead to escalated situations over a pastime as simple as bird-watching.

https://twitter.com/MarinaMedvin/status/1684024142935228421?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1684024142935228421%7Ctwgr%5E35cf5b6014c70315795c7b5e3363f890e13a7bfe%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.foxnews.com%2Fmedia%2Fnbc-report-ridiculed-touting-safe-spaces-black-people-camp-hike-outdoors-racist

Contrary to their belief system, the outdoors has not always been for everyone. Historically, Black people are the smallest percentage of travelers to national parks, making up only 6% of visitors, according to data shared by CNN. Not only is this due to typical accessibility factors, but also segregation. Even outdoor facilities that were nationally funded were subjected to the laws of Jim Crow. Just as the “colored” areas of indoor establishments were separate yet never equal, so were the rundown, unappealing sections of national parks dedicated to Black people. The “nature gap” does indeed exists, and not fodder for “parody” news sites.

While the article itself sought to provide healing and support for people of color that, due to traumas experienced or heard far too often, feel uncomfortable embarking into the world the same way as a white nature enthusiast. Stereotypes surrounding Black people and certain outdoor endeavors, such as skiing and camping, are still present. However, so long as stigma persists, so will the need for nature groups dedicated to outdoor safety for people of color.

RELATED CONTENT: Jeff Jenkins Brings Body Positivity To Adventure Travel In Nat Geo Never Say Never

Ron DeSantis, Florida, Jacksonville, Black veteran
by Lauren Nutall

August 2, 2023

Ron DeSantis Invites Vice President Kamala Harris To Discuss New Slavery Curriculum

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has invited Vice President Kamala Harris to discuss the state’s new controversial African American history benchmark.

In a letter obtained by ABC News, DeSantis has extended an invitation to the vice president after her response to Florida’s new academic standards. “I ​​am prepared to meet as early as Wednesday of this week, but of course want to be deferential to your busy schedule should you already have a trip to the southern border planned for that day,” he wrote. “Please let me know as soon as possible. What an example we could set for the nation—a serious conversation on the substance of an important issue! I hope you’re feeling up to it.”

Florida recently released its 2023 State Academic Standards for Social Studies, which includes changes to how slavery in the United States is taught. Starting this year, teachers across the state are now instructed to teach that slaves “developed skills” which could be “applied for their own personal benefit.” The decision incited anger across platforms from many leaders, including Harris. 

During a speech at the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority National Convention on July 20, Harris said, “They insult us in an attempt to gaslight us, and we will not stand for it. We who share a collective experience in knowing we must honor history in our duty in the context of legacy. There is so much at stake in this moment.” She tweeted the following day, once again expressing her anger and promising to “fight back.”

Though faced with backlash, DeSantis and Dr. William B. Alle,n who co-authored the pamphlet,t defended themselves, with DeSantis taking to Twitter to respond. 

Allen spoke to Local 10 News about the changes. “We need to tell the people’s stories the way they told their stories, not to fit our expectations,” he said. “The stories of the people who lived through the history, they have a right to tell the story in their own words, and what we have provided for is the telling of those stories as they told it.”  

In the letter, DeSantis once again defended his position. “Over the past several weeks, the Biden Administration has repeatedly disparaged our state and misinformed Americans about our education system. Our state pushed forward nation-leading standalone African American History standards—one of the only states in the nation to require this level of learning about such an important subject. One would think the White House would applaud such boldness in teaching the unique and important story of African American History,” he wrote. The vice president has yet to respond.


RELATED CONTENT: Tim Scott Slams Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ New Black History Curriculum

ice cream, Pittsburgh
by Stacy Jackson

August 1, 2023

Pittsburgh’s First Black-Owned Ice Cream Shop Provides Sweet Treats For Community

Happy days await a Black, family-owned ice cream spot in Pittsburgh.

Galen Moorer manages Happy Day Dessert Factory, the first Black-owned ice cream parlor in Pittsburgh, WTAE reported. His son is the owner.

The Dessert Factory is bringing sweet, homemade treats to the city. According to its website, the parlor’s signature product is homemade hard ice cream. Moorer said to WTAE that everything in the shop is homemade. “We make every item that we sell in our store, whether it’s our ice cream, our water ice, our cones, everything,” the news outlet reported.

The brand’s slogan is “Smiles made fresh daily,” the shop’s website notes. According to its website, the business owner boasts more than 12 years of experience in the dessert industry. According to WTAE, the Dessert Factory also has a bus that delivers sweet treats around the community. Moorer said, “We’re open to any civic groups, whether it’s community block parties, churches, athletic organizations, just about any and everything, as long as we can go out and serve the people, meet with the community, and really make a difference economically and socially as well.”

Freshness is a priority for the business. Happy Day Dessert Factory’s offerings include “frozen soft custard, stackers (frozen custard layered with water ice), ice shakes (blended mix of water ice and custard), twisters (blended mix of water ice, premium hard ice cream or custard, and cookie pieces), milkshakes, sundaes, fresh baked cookies, ice cream sandwiches, ice cream cakes, frozen pies, waffle cones and bottled water,” according to the parlor’s website.

Who says dessert has to be unhealthy? The ice cream parlor offers other sweets for people with diet restrictions. Dairy-free options include water ice and almond milk soft serve. Happy Day Dessert Factory also serves Dannon Yocream frozen yogurt for customers who enjoy dairy in smaller amounts.

Miami Gardens, Flo Rida
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

August 1, 2023

Flo Rida Purchases Miami Gardens Retail Plaza For $10M

Flo Rida has made a purchase to expand his business portfolio in his childhood neighborhood.

According to AllHipHop, Tramar Lacel Dillard, better known as Flo Rida, has bought a retail plaza in Miami Gardens for $10 million. The recording artist and his business manager, Lee “Freezy” Prince, made the purchase.

The property, the Cloverleaf Plaza, is located across the street from Miami Gardens Square Shopping Mall. It is reportedly one of the most high-trafficked areas on Miami Gardens Drive and US 441.

So far, 2023 has been an excellent year for the “Low” rapper.

Flo Rida was recently awarded $82.6 million in a lawsuit he filed against the producers of Celsius Energy Drinks. He accused the energy drink maker of violating the conditions of a contract the parties signed in 2014.

The rapper and his production company, Strong Arm Productions, sued the Boca Raton, Forida-based company, alleging they hid money from him and did not honor the initial endorsement he signed. The lawsuit was filed in Broward County court in May 2021.

After winning the lawsuit, the Florida rapper announced that he was launching a rival energy drink called JettSet1. He expects the new product to be in stores in early 2024. The lightly carbonated energy drink will have all-natural ingredients. Flo Rida partnered with George Tabi, M.D., and Erik Hicks to start JettSet1 Enterprises. The trio said the new venture will have “vast interests and partnerships across various industries spanning from biotech, health & wellness, and beverage to real estate development, film, and television, just to name a few.”

He did state that he would give back to the community when the courts decided in his favor. “I’m all about giving, you know, giving is required, so I look forward to taking care of the neighborhood,” he said.

Purchasing the Cloverleaf Plaza is a great start!

Mark Jackson
by Derek Major

August 1, 2023

NBA Analyst, Former Warriors Head Coach Mark Jackson Let Go By ESPN In Broadcast Shakeup

ESPN has let go of NBA analyst and former Golden State Warriors Head Coach Mark Jackson as it shakes up its main broadcasting team for the network’s NBA games.

Jackson has been part of ESPN’s top NBA broadcast team since 2006, after he retired. Jackson coached the Warriors from 2011 through 2014 before returning to ESPN with a multi-year deal working with Mike Breen and former New York Knicks Head Coach Jeff Van Gundy, who was also let go by the network.

The former point guard covered 14 NBA regular seasons, playoffs, and finals while working with Breen and Van Gundy. The trio were known for their great calls and quirky conversations during games.

ESPN will now move forward with former Los Angeles Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers Head Coach Doc Rivers and female personality Doris Burke joining Breen as the main broadcast group.

Jackson, who was a point guard from 1987 through 2004, played for six NBA teams, including the New York Knicks, Indiana Pacers, Toronto Raptors, and Denver Nuggets. Jackson released a statement on Twitter thanking many of those he worked with at the network.

“It has been an honor to sit beside two LEGENDS in the business, who are like brothers to me, Mike Breen and Jeff Van Gundy, and learn so much from them,” Jackson wrote. “Lisa Salters is a GOAT and like a sister to me and I’m so proud of the work she continues to do. To the best producer in the world and my friend, Tim Corrigan, I give the utmost gratitude and thanks for always inspiring and supporting me. To all of the staff and crew, that may have never been on camera…Please know that you were always seen by me and so greatly appreciated.”

Jackson was part of a round of layoffs at ESPN that also saw Keyshawn Johnson, Jalen Rose, Suzy Kolber, and Max Kellerman leave the network.

entrepreneur, winning, Natalie S. Taylor, 5, 10, Boost, career
by Stacy Jackson

August 1, 2023

George Mason University Students Launch Online Shopping Site, ‘The Black Union Shop’

The Black Union Shop will be your next online e-commerce store to indulge in all your shopping needs in the comfort of your home.

 Founded by a group of friends from the DMV area who attend George Mason University, these Black Student Union members created what they call “an ecosystem for the Black community.” Like other thriving e-commerce sites, The Black Union Shop will feature products from various entrepreneurs, according to Baltimore Fishbowl.

One of the founders, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “It’s very important to have a place to promote Black businesses because we face so many barriers as it is.”

“We’re still in the beginning phases, but we want consumers to be able to buy everything in one place and show their support for Black entrepreneurs worldwide,” he continued.

The shop will mainly feature products from Black-owned businesses. According to the outlet, one of the criteria for becoming a vendor on the site is for the company to be Black-owned. The site will also contain a section for vendors who support Black and brown businesses.

As several small brands reached out to the @theblackunion for promotions and advertising, this sparked the idea to create a business that would support the brands. As a result, The Black Union Shop was formed. 

The @theblackunion has 557,000 followers and counting. Its Instagram page features comedic posts and links to the shop in its bio. The page will continue to post comedy; however, it will begin incorporating e-commerce from The Black Union Shop.

The founders, who wish to remain anonymous, have also created TBUTea.com, a site that will deliver the latest culture and news for Black celebrities. The Black Union Shop is set to officially launch today! Visit TBUShop to start your next online shopping adventure.

Business owners interested in selling their products on the shop’s website can send an email to whatsup@theblackunion.com.

 

Teyo, Sexual Harassment
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

August 1, 2023

Former NFL Player Teyo Johnson Receives $50K Settlement From $1.9M Sexual Harassment Lawsuit

A former NFL player who accused the co-founder of the company he worked for of sexual harassment has won his case against the employer. He settled for a paltry amount compared to what he initially sued for.

According to The New York Post, former Oakland Raiders tight end Teyo Johnson sued Everyrealm co-founder Janine Yorio, alleging sexual harassment. He filed a $1.9 million lawsuit but ended up settling the case for a little more than $50,000.

Johnson filed court papers stating that the 47-year-old co-founder had urged him to sleep with co-workers and made racist and lewd comments about his sexual preferences. Johnson also accused the company of paying him lower wages because he was Black. The former football player said he was forced out of the company after refusing Yorio’s sexual advances.

Everyrealm responded to the lawsuit by saying Johnson was terminated for falling asleep while working and his poor job performance.

Yorio and her company, Everyrealm, filed a countersuit in July 2023 that accused Johnson of libeling the company when he claimed that he wasn’t offered equity in the firm “while similarly situated white employees were.” With its countersuit, Everyrealm also said that Johnson made “extortionate” demands asking for a settlement of $1.9 million.

Everyrealm stated the two sides settled on giving Johnson $51,456. A statement by Johnson was posted on the Law360 website: “Statements made in the heat of litigation do not necessarily reflect reality, and this case is no exception.

“I regret the harm this has caused Janine Yorio, Everyrealm, and its employees,” Johnson said.

Johnson’s attorney also represented two other clients who worked for the company and filed similar lawsuits against Everyrealm.

A spokesperson for Yorio also released a statement. “Mr. Johnson and his cohorts demanded $7.4 million, but he walked away with $51,456.”

“Paying this is well worth avoiding any further time wasted on this sham of a lawsuit,” the spokesperson said.

Visas
by Sharelle B. McNair

August 1, 2023

Visa Denials Cause Trouble For African and South American Students Wanting To Study In the States

International students are facing hurdles in finishing their studies in the United States. NBC News reports that students from Africa and some South American countries have been denied visas at higher rates than students from anywhere else in the world.

Between 2015 and 2022, the number of F-1 denials for students applying to U.S. universities and colleges has risen dramatically, with rates across Africa remaining the highest of all the reported regions. South America isn’t too far behind—doubling in the last 10 years.

The data from Shorelight and the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration shows in 2015, F-1 student visa denials were high for African students, except for those in southern Africa, South Asia, and parts of the Middle East. After the COVID-19 pandemic, denials grew around the world but skipped over Australia, China, Brazil, South Africa, and certain European countries.

Visas are granted on a case-by-case basis. A State Department spokesperson said the most student visas in a year were issued in 2022 since 2016. The department approved over 30,000 F-1 visas for students from African countries. To get denied, the department said some students might not meet the requirements with “the presumption of immigrant intent,” meaning they haven’t shown strong ties to their home countries to qualify for a nonimmigrant visa.

Senior adviser at the Presidents’ Alliance, Rajika Bhandari, says the data confirms a trend in higher education that they have focused on for a while. “For many years, there’s been a lot of speculation, a lot of anecdotal reports of students from the Global South being denied visas at higher rates compared with students from other world regions,” Bhandari said, according to Inside Higher Ed. “What’s striking is how high those visa denial rates are from Africa in particular.”

Researchers also assume the F-1 denials occur based on students being unprepared for the tedious visa interview or not having adequate funding to finish U.S. education. However, data shows that 40% of students from sub-Saharan Africa admitted to graduate programs and have secured the funds are still denied.

black-owned brands, swimwear
by Stacy Jackson

August 1, 2023

8 Black-Owned Swimwear Brands To Add A Splash To Your Summer Collection

The summer heat is blazing, and the ladies are still outside. Step into some Black-owned swimwear and feel your absolute best as we keep the summer festivities rolling. Still trying to decide what brands to try out? Here’s a list of brands that will make you look elegant and feel comfortable in the water or sand.

Andrea Iyamah

A brand “designed for the spirited,” Nigerian fashion designer Andrea Dumebi Iyamah created a line inspired by ethnic cultures and elements of nature. The A.I. brand boasts bold colors and retro classic silhouettes celebrating Iyamah’s African roots—shop bikinis, one-pieces, robes, and coverups that will illuminate your style and spirit.

Nakimuli

Join the Nakimuli tribe this summer with one of owner and designer Tennille McMillan’s fashion-forward swimsuit designs. Nakimuli swimwear is all about colors, shapes, and prints representing sisterhood, individuality, and comfort. Find your favorite swimsuit style, from a one-piece to a variety of bikinis.

Arrow + Phoenix

Feel like the ocean is touching you in Arrow + Phoenix swimwear, an eco-friendly brand founded and designed by New Orleans native Kayla Bell. With colorways inspired by the sea and surrounding landscapes, A+P offers silky soft, resilient fabrics and shape retention technology that makes up sleek, luxurious silhouettes to provide a comfortable and supportive fit. Bikini lovers can shop sustainable swimwear tops, bottoms, and sets in a full range of inclusive sizes.

Melissa Simone

One of the celeb-favorites, Melissa Simone, is a swim and resort wear brand all about high-quality and luxury. The detailed line created by Melissa Simone Gardner is a blend of classic and modern elements inspired by the nineties. The designs range from high-cut thongs to one-pieces and string-back bikinis. Melissa Simone’s designs are also available at: Revolve, Kith, and FWRD.

LemLem

Celebrate women and nature by sorting through a range of swimwear styles created by Ethiopian fashion model Liya Kebede. Whether you’re searching for solid colors or shopping from the brand’s Pink Summer Edit or Essentials Collection, every purchase becomes a part of a greater mission to preserve the local art of weaving in Ethiopia and inspire economic growth in Africa. LemLem offers one-pieces, bikini tops and bottoms, coverups, and sarongs.

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Asherah Swimwear

Narrow down your search for elegant swimwear to pieces from Asherah Swimwear. Creative Director and Designer Cheryl “Cejae” Jones will have you wrapped up in the feels of summer with collections featuring one-of-a-kind prints created for the confident woman. Asherah Swimwear includes bikinis, one-pieces, and coverups that appeal to the natural curve and shape of the female figure.

Ego Swim

If you are searching for swimwear for your perfect summer getaway, these besties have you covered. Shakiera T., Tisa F., Sherika H., and Shanae C. founded Ego Swim after traveling the world together and racking up on the sexiest and most comfortable swimwear. The group of friends launched Ego Swim to offer other women the trendiest designs, the best quality fabrics, and diverse sizes.

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Matte Collection

A celeb hotspot for bikini favorites is Matte Collection. The popular brand, founded by Justina McKee, is an affordable luxury lifestyle swim brand founded by women for women. Matte Collection focuses on designs that offer women simple, clean, and minimalist looks to add to their swimwear collections. Matte swimwear features one-pieces, separates, bikinis, three-pieces, and coverups with every size and shape in mind. So, whether you’re already a Matte Babe or desire to be one, the brand’s collections are made for every woman to feel her best.

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