Black Owned Businesses We Love
To make sure our anti-racism work has true depth and longevity, we need to think about lasting change and effective action and one of these is where we shop and who we buy from - with real investment in black creators, businesses and communities. A huge number have a focus on sustainability and ethical practices, some advocate social change, empowering and championing communities, crafters and artisans all over the world. In all cases, the effect of shopping with these businesses spreads further than individuals.
We are proudly Ghanaian made. And we believe in the transformative impact of economically empowered women. Yevu’s stunning bold prints inspired by traditional African dress in modern cuts are ethically made in Ghana, with an aim for social change through quality job creation, stable income, skill learning and financial independence. They pay above minimum wage, and 2-3 times what workers were previously used to. They also make kick-ass clothing in mind blowing prints.
Dorcas is self taught and passionate about representing and uplifting Black people specifically Black women through illustration. Her collection is filled with bold colours, pattern-work and references to her Nigerian heritage. All of the illustrations start out as pencil drawings and then edited digitally.
Inspired by the natural colours and textures of the earth, Naked Clay Ceramics is a collection of quiet, tactile, minimal style tableware and homeware in black stoneware and white porcelain. Using a combination of handbuilding and slip casting, everything is made by hand in my studio in Bedfordshire.
Bespoke Binny is a British based business offering a range of handmade homeware and gifts items made from West African cloth. Living and working in London, as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, Natalie recognised the importance of one’s home environment, in coping with issues such as anxiety and low mood. Being of Ghanaian descent, Natalie grew up being surrounded by vibrant colours and prints, which she found to be uplifting, as a child. Motivated by her experience and love of sewing, Natalie went on built an eclectic homeware brand rooted in African expression.
Avila created her greeting card business in 2018 with the hopes of overcoming stereotypes and changing the world's perceptions on underrepresented communities. All of the designs depict marginalised groups including those with disabilities, identifying as LGBT+, ethnic minorities or problems with mental health. Avila’s goal is to spread awareness, create dialogue and encourage all businesses to reassess their diversity ethos.
lemlem is an artisan-driven collection of women’s, men’s, children’s and home goods made entirely in Africa. Meaning to bloom and flourish in the Ethiopian language of Amharic, lemlem is committed to elevating artisanship and expanding production and jobs across Africa. Women are at the heart of lemlem and the brand is committed to helping them thrive both within its workshops and beyond through its support for lemlem Foundation.
ETC care about the impact running a business has on the environment and the people involved. ETC manufactures garments from raw and organic textiles such as cotton, organic cotton, linen, TENCEL™, and hemp. These fabrics are 100% eco-friendly and 100% better for your skin. ETC Revive manufactures garments from recycled and dead stock textiles. ETC allows you to enjoy well made sustainable garments that liberate and celebrate you, and produce one of a kind pieces in small batches.
Founded in 2014, owners Kalkidan and Vidmantase found inspiration through travelling to developing countries such as Ethiopia where they saw the effects of the fast fashion industry. The low wages, mass dumping, social disruption and environmental destruction affected us to our core. Sancho’s carefully source all the items in their shop by hand and are driven by finding high quality garments and accessories that have all been produced fairly with responsible materials.