Aya Paper Co. is bringing a fresh, authentic voice to the stationery world, creating space for designs that reflect the beauty and diversity of real life. Founded by SaVonne Anderson in 2019, this Black Woman Owned brand fills a long-overlooked gap with modern, heartfelt, and culturally relevant cards and gifts — all designed by Black women artists and produced sustainably in NYC using recycled paper. The company also gives back, making charitable donations to local organizations each year.
Launching Aya wasn’t just about securing a spot for myself in the business world; it was about creating a space where my talents and dreams could flourish. In just five years, Aya Paper Co. has taken the industry by storm, with products sold in Nordstrom, Macy’s, and Whole Foods, and most recently a seasonal Gift Bar that opened at Columbus Circle in NYC. The brand’s success has earned SaVonne recognition from Forbes, Black Enterprise, and Refinery29, as well as the prestigious Tory Burch Foundation Fellowship in 2024.
But beyond the accolades, SaVonne’s journey is rooted in a quest for financial freedom, personal fulfillment, and building generational wealth. Her advice to fellow entrepreneurs? “Ask for what you need. There are so many people who want to support your business — but you have to take the first step.” Explore Aya Paper Co.’s full collection of greeting cards, stationery, and thoughtful gifts at ayapaper.co.
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If you’ve ever struggled to find jeans long enough, dresses that actually hit the floor, or shoes beyond a size 10, Tall Size is here to change your life. Founded by best friends Kayla Alexander and Nicole, Tall Size is the first-ever online fashion marketplace created exclusively for tall women. With Kayla standing at 6’4” and Nicole at 6’0”, they’ve experienced firsthand the frustration of shopping in a world not designed for them, and they decided to do something about it.
Tall Size partners with nearly 40 brands to offer stylish, well-fitting clothing and shoes for women over 5’9”. From clothing with up to a 40-inch inseam to women’s shoes in sizes 9-15, the marketplace is a one-stop shop for tall fashion needs. They also host pop-up shops across Canada and the U.S., giving tall women the rare chance to try on clothes in person, and their styling workshops provide expert advice tailored specifically for taller frames.
For Kayla, this mission is bigger than clothes—it’s about self-esteem and legacy. “If Tall Size can help even one tall girl feel seen and celebrated, that’s impact,” she shares.
Visit tallsize.com to shop online and find more information about their in-person pop ups.
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When it comes to preserving history and amplifying untold stories, Tioleja Media is leading the charge. Founded by Yasmina Fagbemi, a French-American of African descent, Tioleja Films is a powerhouse with two dynamic divisions: Tioleja Films and Tioleja Editions. Their mission? To elevate the voices of everyday heroes and center Black stories that have long been erased from historical records.
In partnership with Gabriel Souleyka, they bring unique perspectives to storytelling. Gabriel, a historian by training, brings over two decades of experience as a script doctor in the United States. Together, they have released nine historical novels and a children’s book, each contributing to their mission of shedding light on overlooked stories.
Inspired by Chinua Achebe’s words—“Until the lions have their own historians, the history of the hunt will always glorify the hunter”—Fagbemi has made it her life’s work to challenge dominant narratives. Through Tioleja Editions, they’ve released nine historical novels, each spotlighting women’s stories and reigniting a love for reading within the community. Their debut novel, “Solitude l’Enfance” (“Solitude, Childhood” in English), achieved Amazon bestseller status within three weeks of its release.
Among their works are three extraordinary historical novels featuring Black women: Solitude, a French West Indies captive executed 24 hours after giving birth; Awa, a Holocaust narrative from the perspective of an African woman deported to Auschwitz; and Toya, the adoptive mother of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the first ruler of the first Black republic. Adding to their global impact, Tioleja Media distinguishes itself by offering content in multiple languages, making these crucial stories accessible to diverse audiences worldwide.
Operating in both the US and West Africa, Tioleja Films and Tioleja Editions are breaking new ground, reclaiming narratives, fostering economic opportunities, and building bridges between multiple communities. Explore their work at tiolejafilms.com.
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Sonteria Bowie is breaking barriers in the wine industry with Tranquil Blends Wine, a Black Woman Owned boutique wine brand based in Milwaukee, WI, rooted in inclusivity, education, and handcrafted excellence. From vibrant Raspberry Peach Sangria to crisp Pétillant Chardonnay and refreshing Green Apple Riesling, Tranquil Blends offers a curated selection of wines that make every sip an experience.
What started as a passion project has blossomed into a thriving business, with a storefront inside the Sherman Phoenix Marketplace and a production contract to ship wine nationwide. One of Sonteria’s proudest achievements was hosting Milwaukee’s first Wine Train Experience, a curated event that introduced an innovative way to enjoy wine. She has also been recognized as Kenosha’s Best for Wine, highlighting her dedication to reshaping the wine industry.
Tranquil Blends is about creating a community. The brand’s wine club memberships offer exclusive tastings and monthly selections, making premium wine accessible to everyone, no matter their level of expertise.
Sonteria’s advice? Stay resilient, trust your journey, and build a strong support system. Be unapologetic about your vision and value. She encourages fellow entrepreneurs to break barriers and pursue their passions with confidence. Her message is clear: success doesn’t come from perfection, but from consistency, learning, and staying true to your mission.
Looking toward the future, Sonteria’s long-term goal is to expand Tranquil Blends Wine’s wholesale operations and continue growing her presence nationwide. Through mentorship and community-driven initiatives, she aims to create a legacy that empowers and uplifts future generations of Black women entrepreneurs in the wine industry and beyond.
With every bottle poured and every connection made, Tranquil Blends Wine is transforming Milwaukee’s wine scene, one unforgettable experience at a time.
Visit in person at Sherman Phoenix Marketplace or shop online at tranquilblendsllc.com
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At Occasions On Main, every event is more than just a celebration—it’s a story brought to life. Founded by Maxine Baptiste, this Black Woman Owned event venue and planning business in Lithonia, GA, is redefining customer service, personalization, and community impact.
Maxine’s journey began with resilience. Becoming a mother at 15, she defied the odds, channeling her challenges into a passion for curating unforgettable experiences. With an eye for detail and a heart for service, she built a business that transforms dreams into reality, whether it’s a milestone birthday, an executive gathering, or a lavish wedding.
But Occasions On Main is more than a venue. Maxine is committed to giving back, hosting coat drives, gifting spa days to single mothers, and relaunching her nonprofit for teen girls in 2025. Her biggest achievement? Her mother witnessing her success before passing from cancer. Now, with plans to expand into Canada and open a Breakfast Bar, she’s just getting started. Her advice? Never compare your journey—your success is your own.
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