I’ve written and rewritten this blog post a hundred and one times out of fear of saying the wrong thing. I have definitely been vocal about my thoughts on my Instagram, but a blog post seems more concrete. So as Meghan Markle rightfully said, “the only wrong thing to say is to say nothing.” This situation isn’t going to get any better unless those who have a platform and/or privilege, use it to their advantage.
I was disappointed to see many of those I follow within the vegan sphere to be silent on the situation *crickets*… I won’t go into too much detail but, it bothers me that we can’t use the same energy of anger of the mistreatment of animals, and turn the volume up to support black people. I honestly cannot believe we are having to constantly fight injustices, hello it’s 2020 and the black community is still being marginalised and oppressed!
So here’s my cue, it’s time to amplify black voices and I’m going to do my bit to highlight some amazing black businesses and bloggers that definitely deserve your money. and support.
Beauty
Kitaka of London | natural & organic lip gloss | website
Kokoa Eco Beauty | natural beauty products & eco-beauty services | website
Coloured Raine | pigmented eyeshadows & liquid lipsticks | website
Beauty Bakerie | cruelty-free cosmetics | website
Uoma Beauty | cruelty-free beauty, cosmetics & personal care | website
Badgal Brows | Leeds based cruelty-free and vegan brow spa | website
VIXINY | affordable nail polishes free from toxins and parabens | website
MDM Flow | lipsticks and glosses for all skin tones | website
By Jess D | long-lasting lipsticks suitable for all skin tones | website
ColorBlend Makeup | premium eyes, lip and face products | website
MUDD Beauty | organic and vegan liquid lipsticks made from natural ingredients | website
Haircare
Afrocenchix | vegan natural afro hair products | website
Ksoni Cares | vegan & cruelty-free, plastic-free shampoos | website
Wholesome Hair Co | vegan owned and formulated premium hair care | website
Curly Ellie | haircare designed for those with naturally curly hair and sensitive skin | website
The Wild Curl | products formulated for different curly hair types, made with natural ingredients | website
Briogeo | 100% cruelty-free haircare & conditioning with select vegan products | website
Skincare & Bodycare
SHIMIROSE | natural, vegan and cruelty-free shea butter skincare | website
The Glowcery | superfood skincare | website
Kalabash | natural palm free soap (and candles) | website
Chiara Skin | natural & sustainable skincare (body care and fragrances) | website
Wine Down Beauty | wine-infused scrubs and body butters | website
AJA Naturals | plant-based and organic natural skincare | website
Natural Tribal Skincare | natural skincare made from coconut, shea butter, millet, and kola nuts website
Shea Me | vegan organic shea moisturising products | website
Soapsmith | soaps, hand wash & lotion | website
Food
Dirty Kitch | vegan southern style, home-cooked soul food (Coventry) | website
Vegan Shack | plant-based fast food (Manchester) | website
Earth’s Kitchen | plant-based home-cooked food (Birmingham)
The Real African Food Co | traditional West African food available in most major supermarkets | website
Young Vegans | handmade pies vegan & gluten-free options (London) | website
Yo Dough | ready to eat cookie dough (Birmingham) | website
Cakes & Ish | 100% vegan cakes and bakes (Wolverhampton) | website
Saint Aymes | vegan cafe & bar, including cakes made to order (London) | website
Homeware & Plants
PrickLDN | cactus and succulent shop (London) | website
Bespoke Binny | bespoke home decor including bedding, lampshades and table runners | website
scentsbyartemis | eco-friendly, vegan and cruelty-free candles, made from natural sources | website
K&R London | soy candles, eco-friendly and vegan | website
Selfmade Candle Co | 100% soy wax candles made with essential oils, vegan & cruelty-free | website
Fashion & Jewellery
Blue Eleven Intimates | ethical lingerie and loungewear | website
The Lovely Things | ethical & vegan handbags and accessories | website
DAMIHOW | fitness wear | website
Fashion Rail | fashionable dresses and jumpsuits | website
KIONII | personalised and statement jewellery | website
Art & Creatives
madeforbranding | illustrations, DM for custom designs
KitsCH Noir | cards & prints | website
4YaParty | rustic wedding & eco-friendly events venue dresser | website
Styled by Coco Spring | premium event stylist
Yharnna Designs | handmade & bespoke interior art | website
https://www.instagram.com/p/CA-iOr4n_xz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
UK Influencers & Bloggers
@demicolleen | vegan beauty & lifestyle
@rachelama_ | vegan food
@vegansofcolour_UK | the go-to hub for POC & black creatives
@vegan_at_tiffs | vegan home cooking and food reviews
@veganbrownting | vegan food & lifestyle
@UKVeganOfColour | supporting vegans of colour
@RGVeganFood | vegan food and recipe e-books | website
@london_afro_vegan | vegan food & lifestyle, owner of Deserted Catcus
@whatsgoodberto | mental health & fitness and plant-based nutrition
@badassvegan | vegan athlete, influencer and owner of Vegan Smart
@genisisbutler_ | animal activist and cofounder of Youth Climate Save
@ajabarber | sustainability, ethics and intersectional feminism
@iamtabithabrown | vegan food & recipes | website
This is by no means an extensive list, but for those looking to support some new black-owned businesses and bloggers, this is absolutely a good place to start. And, of course, I will look to add more to this list when I discover more amazing human beings and businesses!
And while you’re reading, here are some important causes that need your help:
💸 Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust
💸 Reclaim the Block
💸 Black Visions Collective
💸 Black Minds Matter
💸 Runnymede
💸 Black Lives Matter UK
Stay safe and until next time,
Neneh x
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Pin for Later – How to Support Black-Owned Businesses:
Neneh J Bee 