B is for Black Brillance badge
The Black Brilliance Badges were established to honor organizations, people, and movements that explicitly amplify, cultivate, and celebrate Black brilliance. Our honorees are living examples of Black joy, Black abundance, and the Black unity. Through their existence we see the power of legacy for all of us.
Quick History of
what we do
As the founder of B is for Black Brilliance, I’m constantly inspired by what it looks like when Black brilliance is not only seen—but celebrated, supported, and sustained. That’s the spirit behind our Black and Brilliant Badge—a mark of honor for caregivers to trust, and a celebration of the organizations and businesses doing this work in real time.
These are the Black and brilliant business owners showing up for our communities in ways that sustain and fuel our humanity.
They’re building businesses, programs, and safe havens that pour into our children and our people. They’re modeling what it looks like to use their own brilliance to build for us—and that’s exactly why we travel city to city, lifting them up and passing that brilliance forward.
It’s a modern-day remix of the Green Book—the guide our ancestors used during Jim Crow to find safety, rest, and respect on the road. It was more than a travel tool—it was a map of protection and pride. Today, we’re reimagining that same spirit, spotlighting where Black brilliance lives and thrives.
See our Cities
DETRIOT
INDIANAPOLIS
HARLEM
WASHINGTON DC
BROOKLYN
MEET
DETRIOT
Spectacles
Zana Smith
Griot Music Lounge
Scott Boswell, Karen Addison, and Jonathan Taylor
Baobab Fare
Hamissi Mamba and Nadia Nijimbere
Math 4 Success
Dr. Leron J. Lightfoot
Chef Shobe
Shari Shobe
Source Booksellers
Janet Webster Jones
Spectacles
Zana Smith
Nestled in downtown Detroit's Harmonie Park, Spectacles has been a beacon of culture and style for over 38 years. Founded by the visionary Zana Smith, Spectacles offers an eclectic mix of fashion, music, and literature that resonates with the city's vibrant spirit. Zana's dedication has cultivated a space where both emerging and established artists converge, making Spectacles a cornerstone of Detroit's cultural landscape.
Griot Music Lounge
Scott Boswell, Karen Addison, and Jonathan Taylor
In the heart of Midtown Detroit, Griot Music Lounge stands as a sanctuary for music enthusiasts. Co-owned by Scott Boswell, Karen Addison, and Jonathan Taylor, this intimate venue pays homage to the West African tradition of the griot—a storyteller and keeper of history. Here, vinyl records spin tales of blues, jazz, R&B, and more, fostering a communal space where stories and melodies intertwine.
Baobab Fare
Hamissi Mamba and Nadia Nijimbere
Baobab Fare is the heartfelt creation of Hamissi Mamba and Nadia Nijimbere, a couple who journeyed from Burundi to Detroit seeking asylum. Their restaurant introduces the rich flavors of East Africa to the local community, offering dishes like stewed goat and plantains. Beyond cuisine, Baobab Fare embodies resilience and cultural exchange, earning accolades such as being James Beard Award semifinalists and a feature on Food Network's "Chopped."
Math 4 Success
Dr. Leron J. Lightfoot
Founded by Dr. Leron J. Lightfoot, Math 4 Success is dedicated to empowering Detroit's youth through mathematics and STEM education. Drawing from his own experiences in underserved communities, Dr. Lightfoot provides tailored tutoring services, SAT prep, and enrichment activities, aiming to bridge educational gaps and inspire the next generation of innovators.
Chef Shobe
Shari Shobe
Chef Shari Shobe, known professionally as Chef Shobe, is a culinary artist based in Detroit. Specializing in private dining experiences, she crafts personalized menus that blend tradition with innovation. Beyond the kitchen, Chef Shobe is the creator of the annual "Spice Drive," collaborating with local businesses to donate spices to food banks, enriching meals for families in need.
Source Booksellers
Janet Webster Jones
Located in Detroit's Midtown district, Source Booksellers has been a cherished institution since 1989. Founded by Janet Webster Jones, a retired educator from Detroit Public Schools, the store specializes in non-fiction titles spanning history, culture, health, and spirituality. Janet's passion for knowledge and community engagement has transformed Source Booksellers into a hub for literary exploration and cultural discourse. Her daughter, Alyson Jones Turner, has joined her in this endeavor, ensuring that the legacy of promoting literacy and learning continues. Their combined efforts have made Source Booksellers a pillar of Black brilliance in Detroit.
UJAMAA COmmunity Book Store
Aleta Hodge and Nichelle Hayes
In the heart of Indianapolis, Ujamaa Community Bookstore stands as more than just a retailer—it's a sanctuary of Black culture and connection. Founded by Aleta Hodge and Nichelle Hayes, this literary haven offers carefully curated books, stationery, and educational activities designed to nourish the Black community. The name "Ujamaa," drawing from Swahili principles of cooperative economics, perfectly captures the store's mission: to build community wealth through shared resources and knowledge. With its warm atmosphere and commitment to representation, Ujamaa has transformed from a simple bookstore into a vibrant hub where strangers become family and Black brilliance is celebrated daily.
Cleo's Bodega and Cafe
Sibeko Jywanza
Situated in Indianapolis's Near Northwest neighborhood, Cleo's Bodega and Cafe serves as both nourishment for the body and soul. Founded by Sibeko Jywanza in partnership with Flanner House, this community-centered cafe has become a cornerstone of local food access and cultural exchange. Their master baristas craft personalized beverages with pride and precision, while culinary offerings like their signature grilled cheese—elevated by locally-made Chef Oya's Trapp Butter—exemplify their commitment to quality. Beyond mere sustenance, Cleo's represents the intersection of passion and purpose, offering healing through hospitality in a neighborhood once designated as a food desert.
Exponentia Prime
Patrick Jones
Patrick Jones, often called the "unofficial mayor of Indianapolis," is revolutionizing mathematics education through Exponentia Prime. As a community trailblazer and dedicated abolitionist, Patrick's approach to teaching transcends traditional methods, embedding cultural relevance and representation into every lesson. His car-turned-mobile-classroom brims with innovative educational materials featuring Black children actively engaged in mathematical discovery. Through Exponentia Prime, Patrick isn't merely teaching equations—he's fostering a legacy of excellence and critical thinking that empowers Black youth to see themselves as mathematical geniuses and future leaders in STEM fields.
Tea’s Me Cafe
Tamika Catchings
Owned by WNBA legend Tamika Catchings (jersey #24), Tea's Me Cafe blends athletic excellence with entrepreneurial vision. After a storied basketball career with the Indiana Fever, Tamika transformed her childhood connection to tea—a symbol of grounding and comfort—into a thriving business venture. This welcoming sanctuary offers more than exceptional beverages; it provides a space where community stories unfold and Black brilliance is honored. Tamika's transition from court to cafe exemplifies her commitment to creating gathering spaces that nurture both body and spirit, continuing her legacy of leadership beyond sports into the realm of community building.
Believe High School
Kimberly Neal
Under the visionary leadership of Kimberly Neal, Believe High School stands as a testament to educational innovation in Indianapolis. This groundbreaking institution fosters an environment where young minds not only learn but radiate courage and brilliance through their academic and artistic endeavors. Students engage in creating powerful artworks celebrating Black lives and narratives, while simultaneously developing skills in inquiry, advocacy, and brand development. The school's philosophy—cultivating excellence while empowering students to claim their rightful opportunities—has established Believe as more than an educational institution; it's a movement toward educational equity and student agency that's reshaping the future of Indianapolis youth.
Red Rooster
Marcus Samuelsson and Maya Haile
In the cultural heart of Harlem, Red Rooster stands as a culinary institution celebrating the neighborhood's rich heritage. Founded by acclaimed chef Marcus Samuelsson and his partner Maya Haile, this restaurant transcends traditional dining by weaving together food, art, and community. The space honors Harlem's legacy through thoughtfully crafted dishes that blend American comfort food with multicultural influences. Beyond gastronomy, Red Rooster serves as a gathering place where locals and visitors share stories and celebrate Black excellence. Through their commitment to hiring from within the community and supporting neighborhood initiatives, Marcus and Maya have created more than a restaurant—they've established a cultural cornerstone where nourishment extends from plate to soul.
Grandma’s Place
Dawn Harris-Martine
Nestled on Lenox Avenue, Grandma's Place has been Harlem's beloved children's store since 1999. Founded by educator Dawn Harris-Martine, affectionately known as "Grandma Dawn," this charming boutique offers thoughtfully curated toys, books, and educational materials that celebrate diversity and excellence. After over three decades teaching in New York City public schools, Dawn transformed her passion for children's education into a haven where young minds are nurtured through culturally affirming resources. With store manager Ja carrying forward the founder's vision, Grandma's Place continues to serve as both a retail space and community resource. Dawn's commitment to representing Black children in literature and play materials has made the store an essential destination for families seeking toys and books that inspire pride, creativity, and brilliance.
Harlem Haberdashery
Guy Wood and Sharene Wood
Harlem Haberdashery, the retail expression of the renowned fashion company 5001 FLAVORS, embodies family legacy and sartorial excellence. Founded by husband-and-wife team Guy and Sharene Wood alongside their extended family, this boutique stands as a monument to Black entrepreneurship and artistry. Their journey from custom clothing designers for celebrities to brick-and-mortar retailers demonstrates their business acumen and creative vision. The family-renovated brownstone showcases exclusive apparel and accessories while serving as headquarters for their community initiative, #TakeCareOfHarlem. With unity as their guiding principle, the Woods have created more than a fashion destination—they've established a cultural institution that celebrates Harlem's style heritage while investing in its future. Their commitment to community service, evidenced through toy drives and neighborhood programs, reflects their belief that true success means lifting others while rising.
The Harlem Biscuit Company
Chef Melvin "Boots" Johnson
What began as a two-week pop-up has blossomed into a Harlem culinary treasure under the visionary leadership of Chef Melvin "Boots" Johnson. The Harlem Biscuit Company transforms a nighttime bar into a daytime haven for comfort food enthusiasts, offering innovative biscuit sandwiches named in honor of cultural icons like Zora Neale Hurston, Malcolm X, and Langston Hughes. Chef Melvin's thoughtful approach to business extends beyond the kitchen—incorporating local art from creators like @milton510 and ensuring inclusive menu options with delectable vegan offerings. His entrepreneurial journey reflects the improvisational brilliance of jazz, turning unexpected opportunities into sustainable success. More than a restaurant, The Harlem Biscuit Company serves as a space where food, history, and community converge, nourishing both body and spirit in the tradition of Harlem's greatest culinary establishments.
Akwaaba Mansion
Monique Greenwood and Glenn Pogue
Long before the advent of modern hospitality platforms, Monique Greenwood and her husband Glenn Pogue transformed a dilapidated 1860s Italianate villa into Akwaaba Mansion, Brooklyn's first upscale bed and breakfast. Established in 1995, this elegant four-suite inn marries Victorian splendor with Afrocentric aesthetics, creating a sanctuary that honors Black cultural heritage. Every artifact and design element has been personally selected by Monique, former editor-in-chief of Essence magazine turned hospitality entrepreneur. The mansion's name—meaning "welcome" in Ghanaian language—perfectly captures the essence of the experience guests receive. Through Akwaaba, Monique has expanded to multiple locations while maintaining an intimate approach to hospitality that celebrates connection, history, and Black excellence. The mansion serves as both a luxurious accommodation and a living museum where travelers can immerse themselves in an environment that reverently showcases the beauty of Black cultural brilliance.
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Lonnie G. Bunch III
Standing proudly on the National Mall, the National Museum of African American History and Culture represents the culmination of a century-long journey to honor Black American contributions. Conceptualized by Lonnie G. Bunch III, the founding director who later became the first African American Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, this architectural marvel opened its doors in September 2016. The distinctive bronze-colored lattice exterior, designed by lead architect David Adjaye, draws inspiration from Yoruban art while symbolizing the ascent from oppression to freedom. Inside, over 40,000 artifacts chronicle the African American experience across multiple floors, creating a narrative that begins in the subterranean galleries with slavery and ascends toward celebration of cultural achievements. More than a museum, this institution serves as both witness to historical struggles and testament to enduring brilliance, providing a space for reflection, education, and hope for the ongoing movement toward equality.
Busboys and Poets
Andy Shallal
Established in 2005 by social entrepreneur Andy Shallal, Busboys and Poets has evolved from a single location to a beloved network of community gathering spaces across the Washington DC area. Named in honor of Langston Hughes, who worked as a busboy at the Wardman Park Hotel while writing poetry, this hybrid restaurant-bookstore-performance venue embodies the intersection of creativity and activism. Each location features a carefully curated bookstore managed by Teaching for Change, offering literature that centers marginalized voices and perspectives. The menu, crafted to nourish body and soul, offers both traditional and plant-based options that draw inspiration from global cuisines. Through its "Tribal Statement," Busboys and Poets explicitly commits to creating spaces where art, culture, and politics deliberately collide. Andy's vision has cultivated an ecosystem where Black literary brilliance thrives alongside meaningful conversation and community building—making it not just a restaurant, but a cultural institution.
The Gathering Spot
Ryan Wilson and TK Petersen
Co-founded by Ryan Wilson and TK Petersen, The Gathering Spot represents a revolutionary approach to the traditional private club model. Established in Atlanta in 2016 and expanded to Washington DC in 2020, this Black-owned membership club was created to address the critical need for spaces where diverse professionals could build community and access resources. The DC location, situated in a historic building near Howard University, features thoughtfully designed workspaces, meeting rooms adorned with culturally significant art (including wallpaper featuring musical notations from Tevin Campbell's "Can We Talk"), and a full-service restaurant. Beyond physical amenities, The Gathering Spot provides programming that fosters connection and collaboration among change-makers like Erica Beal and TSJ. Ryan and TK's vision has transformed what private clubs can be, creating an ecosystem where Black entrepreneurship and leadership are celebrated, supported, and elevated.
Calabash Tea And Tonic
Dr. Sunyatta Amen
In the bustling Shaw neighborhood of Washington DC, Calabash Tea & Tonic stands as a healing sanctuary founded by fifth-generation herbalist Dr. Sunyatta Amen. Drawing from her Cuban-Jamaican heritage and family's 150-year legacy of holistic healing, Sunyatta has created more than a tea shop—she's established a "decolonized" approach to wellness that honors traditional knowledge systems. The apothecary-style space offers over 100 proprietary tea blends and tonic elixirs, each crafted to address specific wellness concerns using organic, fair-trade ingredients. Beyond beverages, Calabash provides plant-based cuisine that nourishes the body while respecting ancestral food traditions. Sunyatta's commitment to community extends beyond commerce; she regularly hosts workshops on herbalism and wellness practices, ensuring that traditional knowledge remains accessible. Through Calabash, Sunyatta has created a space where healing happens not just through consumption but through connection to cultural wisdom and communal care.
Chef Jaycee
Chef Jaycee
In the vibrant culinary landscape of Washington DC, Chef Jaycee has established himself as a distinguished private chef whose journey began in the humble kitchens of Madison Heights, Virginia. His passion for culinary arts first ignited at Amherst County High School, later refined at Philadelphia's JNA Institution of Culinary Arts and the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. Chef Jaycee's commitment to mastering both culinary technique and business acumen led him to complete a management degree at James Madison University, where he simultaneously served as Sous Chef, preparing meals for distinguished guests including the Admiral of the Navy Seals and country music star Luke Bryan. Upon relocating to Northern Virginia, he elevated his career as a diplomatic private chef in the nation's capital, crafting exceptional dining experiences for ambassadors and media personalities. Now, as founder of Chef Jaycee LLC, he delivers sophisticated private dining experiences for an impressive clientele including NFL players, corporate executives, CNN reporters, and White House officials. Beyond catering, Chef Jaycee demonstrates his versatility through cooking competition victories throughout the DMV area and educational cooking classes for major corporations. Through intimate gatherings paired with Black-owned spirits like Uncle Nearest bourbon and McBride Sisters wines, he creates transformative culinary moments where food becomes a medium for connection, celebration, and the expression of cultural brilliance.
B is for Black Brilliance Caregiver Event
Our own Caregiver Event was a heartfelt gathering that showcased our curriculum and introduced our community membership. It was an opportunity to connect with caregivers dedicated to nurturing Black brilliance in their children. We ate, we dreamed, we celebrated our brilliance. If you’d like to learn more about our community or resources, join our waitlist.
Download 30 Habits that cultivate black brilliance today
GENERATION H. PHOTOGRAPHY
David Hardy Jr.’s photography speak a thousand words. His images are created from a vision for the world that needs to be seen so we can continue to find ways to make it better. He signs his photographs as “Edward Tyler Jr.” to symbolize the names and generations of his family that have allowed him to share his art for all to see.
