November 7th, 2024

Refine Collective and DIAGEO Partner to Make a More Inclusive World

DIAGEO and its brands Johnnie Walker, Ketel One, and Seedlip partnered with Refine Collective’s Planet HER, a community-focused night bazaar and marketplace showcasing women creatives in Chicago founded by IB Majekodumni. This is part of DIAGEO’s Society 2030 plan to shape a more inclusive world.

Refine Collective started as a passion project. “I started building out a directory to make it easy to find different women and minority-owned small businesses in Chicago in January 2020. I have a background in electronic procurement technology… I was always around concepts such as buying power, so the decisions we make with our money have always interested me.”

IB noted a new Black queer veteran-owned coffee shop that opened across the street from her, and in proximity was a Starbucks. IB saw many people coming from Starbucks, but she knew the coffee was better at the veteran-owned local shop. With this in mind, IB sent out a survey in her networks at the top of 2020 to better understand if people are mindful of where they’re putting their money daily and if it matters to them. Her overarching feedback was that they were just hard to identify, so she started to build out the directory, and the directory spawned into a larger community.

Minority-owned businesses must have equal opportunities to move towards a more inclusive world. When discussing diversity, equity, and inclusion, IB defined it as showing in a space where she can be her authentic self and be in spaces that cultivate that. She also wants to create this space for others. “I want to create spaces where people can show up and be themselves and champion people…to be that regardless of their identity.”

Entrepreneurship was never something IB thought she was going to pursue as she fell into it. Entrepreneurship can be complex and present its own set of challenges. For IB, one of her challenges has been funding. “I was filling out 20 applications a month, and out of the 80 I filled out, I think I won one,” she expressed. Another challenge has been learning about her taxes and the mental aspect of being an entrepreneur. “You have doubts trying to make sure you’re doing what you’re supposed to be doing and doing what I’m doing authentically.”

Over the years, women have made significant strides in entrepreneurship, and women are “rewriting what entrepreneurship looks like for us,” IB said. She also mentioned that “a lot of times back then, we thought you need to have a brick-and-mortar business, and there has to be some type of product, but I think it’s cool seeing women take some of their skills that may not be quantifiable, but maybe their soft skills and just different acumen and being able to create businesses out of that.”

For those who want to be an entrepreneur or who are already in the business industry, IB’s advice is to “build your pillars and stick to them.” IB has built her business on her values and beliefs and what is important to her. “I have found that anytime I’ve made a decision I regret is when I’ve done it out of fear and when I veer away from my pillars.” She also recommends that you have your own mini board of advisors…trusted members, and people in your life that you can spitball ideas and that they know your pillars so that they can be your accountability as well.”

When discussing Planet HER, IB stressed the importance of such events. “I think when the pandemic hit, we really lost that human connection, and I really love having these… and having the opportunity to give different women, and minority-owned businesses, the opportunity to get Facetime with people who are interested in their work.” She also mentioned how excited she was to host the event in Chicago. “I think Chicago is often overlooked and it’s exciting to create something that’s for Chicagoans by Chicagoans, by people who know us.”

IB could only conclude the interview by discussing how unique her partnership with DIAGEO has been. “DIAGEO was my first and only sponsor for our very first market event. It was 2021, our Juneteenth Reina market, and it was what kicked off us creating these events. Since then, we’ve done seven different large-scale markets, kind of bringing in over 4,000 people annually to these events. The partnership is part of their Society 2030 campaign, aiming to support more diverse women in minority-owned businesses. I think it’s just a great alignment which Refine Collective’s mission to funnel collective purchasing power back into the hands of the underrepresented.”

As we continue to strive towards a more diverse and inclusive world, DIAGEO and Refine Collective are making their mark on the world one event at a time.

Photo Caption: IB Majekodunmi Toasts to Women’s History Month at Plant Her with DIAGEO and its Brands, Johnnie Walker, Ketel One, and Seedlip in Chicago

Photo Credit: Ambercita

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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