February is a month-long observance, created to recognize the contributions and achievements of those of the African diaspora. This year, let’s focus on how to move forward and celebrate Black folks in our communities. Known as Black History Month, we are reframing our support this February to celebrate Black Futures Month, a celebration of all to come. While there are countless Black folks doing great things in our communities, we wanted to give a shout to 12 businesses and organizations that inspire us. Here are some local Black-owned gems you can support this month. —Asha Wheeldon, Kula Kitchen
elbo patties. Founded by our favorite auntie, Chris Boreland, Elbo Patties are for the people. Made by hand with lots of love at their East Georgia location, they offer Jamaican classics with creative twists on familiar favourites.Check out their delicious selection of house-made patties, chutneys, coco bread, and chips at https://www.elbopatties.com/ or on Instagram. We love you, Chris!
rise up marketplace. Recently opened and already a local favourite, Rise Up Marketplace is making community convenient. Offering hot meals and the best of local artisans’ products , this bodega is far from average. Enjoy freshly baked breads, sandwiches, soups and more while supporting local; come for the food, stay for the great vibes!Visit Rise Up Marketplace at 704 Vernon Drive, Vancouver or check out their website for more information.
black women connect vancouver. Founded by Nataizya Mukwavi in 2017 to bridge gaps present in the local Black community, particularly those affecting Black women, BWCV is a community created to empower and embrace Black women. Their mission is to build and establish meaningful relationships, and to celebrate the beauty of Black womanhood. Head over to their website to donate, check out upcoming events, and more. You can also follow them on Instagram and listen to their Podcast.
chop it up! Opening up shop in 2021, CHOP IT UP! Is a community-led plant-based cooking class. Hosted by Asha Wheeldon (KULA Kitchen), Chris Boreland (Elbo Patties) in collaboration with Black Women Connect Vancouver, and their special guests, their aim is to make plant-based education accessible and culturally relevant for all. With four sold-out events under their belt, 2022 is certain to be a big year for them.Keep your eyes open for their February event, tickets go fast! Follow their Instagram for the latest updates, or visit their website for recipes and more.
mumgry. Are you hungry? You will be!Inspired by founder Lilian Umurungi-Jung’s need for delicious and nutritious pregnancy snacks, Mumgry has introduced unbeatable nut butters to the market. High in protein, calcium, and iron, their nut butters are good for everyone, especially Mums. As their tagline says, it’s “Only the Good Stuff”. Stay up-to-date all things Mumgry on their Instagram, or visit their website to check out the selection, we recommend the MUMGRY Mini Trio to try all three delicious flavours at once.
project love run. Founded by Filsan Abdiaman in 2018, PLR is a safe space for self-identifying women to move their bodies in an inclusive environment. PLR events are designed to be a running experience that will reframe your relationship with your body and mind, no matter your experience level.Find upcoming events, join the PLR, or connect with the team on their Website, Instagram, and Facebook.
farafena. Bringing nutrient-dense, whole African foods to Canada, founder Oumar Togola wants to bring nourishing foods straight to your table. Naturally grown, their items feature Farafena’s equitable direct partnerships with over 850 women farmers in nine villages to help them attain financial independence and further contribute to their communities.Find recipes + shop their fonio, moringa, and baobab on their website, or connect on Instagram and Facebook.
batiqua. Distributing beautiful textiles handmade in Zimbabwe, Batiqua aims to uplift and empower marginalized artisans with their fair trade home decor. Their designs are beautiful and unique, and their selection ensures you can find the perfect fit for your home.In founder Linda Adimora’s words: “It’s been my hope to go to these artisans and give them the opportunity to better themselves, and ultimately better the next generation with the ability to provide for themselves.”Shop their pillows, placemats, and more on their website, and follow them on Instagram and Facebook for more!
ogeajibe. Looking for your next spring fit? Made to order in Vancouver, Oge Ajibe’s mission is rooted in inclusivity. Using sustainably sourced cotton and other recycled materials, each garment is crafted to fit just right. Providing clients with comfort and confidence, their unique items are available in sizes XS-5XL.Shop their new collection on their Website and Instagram.
bakau consulting. Founded by Cicely Belle Blain, Bakau Consulting is an anti-racism consulting company based in Vancouver. They offer training and workshops, equity audits, policy development and more. Connect with the Bakau team on their Website, and follow them on Twitter and Instagram.
colour the trails. Founded by Judith Kasiama, Colour The Trails is a collective advocating for inclusive representation and accessibility in outdoor spaces. With events in BC, Alberta, and Colorado, check out their Website to find your next adventure! Keep up to date with all things CTT on their Instagram and Facebook.
kendra coupland. A combination of Hatha yoga movement, breathwork, meditation, and devotional practices, Kendra specializes in Transformational Yoga. Certified and registered with the Yoga Alliance International, she brings a compassionate trauma-informed and intersectional framework to her practice. Her work continues to create safe spaces for our communities to heal.Group and 1-on-1 classes are available to book through her website, or support her through Monthly Subscription or Retreat Fundraiser.
firina achor creative. Founded in 2020, FAC is a PR agency specializing in the luxury health and wellness industry. Offering new product development, media relations, and brand strategy, Firina Achor was driven to share her expertise in the wellness industry. You can connect with Firina on Instagram and LinkedIn.
Originally posted on cohocommissary.com
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