Canada is filled with talented creatives, artists, and groundbreaking entrepreneurs. In celebration of Black History Month, and as a show of support for the independent, small and medium sized BIPOC owned businesses throughout this year, it is our utmost pleasure to share some of these phenomenal and inspiring businesses owned by Black, Indigenous, and people of colour in our communities. These dynamic sets of business professionals continuously produce quality, unique, and well-crafted products that are sure to impact our lives in more ways than one. Here are a few of them to patronize this year and beyond.
PleaseNotes Goods is based in Toronto. The company deals in the development of guided affirmation accessories and journals that brings positive thoughts and wellness content to its customers. Well-thought out journals like these are becoming increasingly popular, especially post pandemic when people began to grasp how fleeting life can be, and how everything can change in a twinkling of an eye. Words of positivity that provide comfort in the midst of chaos is a sure reminder for what’s important, and for people to hold their loved ones even closer.
Kasandy showcases artisanal products which are handmade with care. Many of their products are from around the world, especially East Africa. The company is based and operates out of Vancouver, British Columbia.
Kasandy partners with mainly artisans from the East African country of Kenya—by encouraging budding entrepreneurs to showcase their creativity as well as expand their design skills and endeavours. Some of their products include apparel, homeware, stationery, food, and beautiful accessories. More so, they ship globally, so go ahead and place that order.
Zuri & Dre’s offering include plush dolls and their accompanying doll clothes, stationery Including books, variety of stickers and greeting cards, accessories like magnets sets, enamel pins, key chains, bucket hats, planter pots and tote bags, all their products are unique and designed by founder, Danielle Murray Cox who is an expert graphic designer and illustrator. The company’s goal is to diversify toy boxes, and to make playtime creative and fun for all children around the globe. They ship worldwide to over 50 countries. Visit their website to find out more.
Based out of Toronto, KANDL is dedicated to making luxury candles utilizing a slow-process method that focuses on dedication to product quality and a rapt attention to detail. Visit their location for an unforgettable experience of pure craftsmanship.
Raven Reads is a seasonal book subscription box that runs every three months. The company is an Indigenous and women run company. Once in three months, a book written by an Indigenous author is delivered to customers. But that’s not all, the company includes culture and literature-themed goodies too with each order.
Owned by Akilah Newton, an author, activist, and entrepreneur. Big Dreamers website displays an array of colourful products, from puzzles to plush teddies, and educational products for the younger audience. They’re currently running a black history month sale of 28% off on all their products.
Greer Chicago was founded by Chandra Greer. The company deals in office supplies and stationery sourced from around the globe. In addition to their online store, Greer Chicago has a physical store located in Chicago, and a second location in New York City. Their online shop is a stationery lover’s haven of writing supplies, notebooks and cards.
Effie’s Paper celebrates the beauty of paper and stationery through a beautiful display of notebooks, pencil cases, pens and other accessories. The company’s Instagram page displays some of their highly creative products for the purchasing public to indulge and order.
Josephine Destiny Art is an eponymous store owned by a crafter and illustrator. You can find the founder’s own artworks in various formats like journals, postcards, stickers, and fun accessories like mystery grab bags. The store updates monthly with new items. You can never run out of fun grabs at Josephine Destiny Art. Check out their Etsy and Instagram page for more eye feast of paper, art, and crafts.
Ariel Young founded Copper and Brass as a testament of her love for giving gifts and paper crafts. The business is focused on creating spaces that represent the creativity of Black people. The company stocks everything paper related from gift bags to wrapping paper, greeting cards, notebooks, as well as cute accessories. In addition to their website, their Instagram page features some of their eye-candy products
Chinenye Emezie | Assistant Editor
