Black representation in the business world is important as we educate and uplift future generations of leaders to pursue the paths they choose. This February, we are celebrating Black History Month by spotlighting some inspiring Black KIPP alumni entrepreneurs and creatives who are paving their own paths.
KIPP Alumni Network: Celebrating Black Entrepreneurs On The Rise
The contributions of Black entrepreneurs throughout history have played an important role in the economic development of our country. Black representation in the business world is important as we educate and uplift future generations of leaders to pursue the paths they choose. This February, we are celebrating Black History Month by spotlighting some inspiring Black KIPP alumni entrepreneurs and creatives who are paving their own paths. Check them out below!
Jon-ye Holmes | The Genesis Collection LLC
A KIPP NJ Alum, Jon-ye Holmes is the owner of The Genesis Collection LLC. The Genesis Collection is an all-natural and vegan skincare line dedicated to maintaining your best natural skin. Jon-ye created it as a space where you can find a Brown Girl taking care of Brown Girls and her products are made for all skincare types. Follow ➡️ @thegenesiscollection.co on Instagram to learn more.
Taylah D. Ashford | Tay Visionz Photography
A KIPP DC alum, Taylah Ashford is the CEO of Tay Visionz Photography. In 2018, Taylah launched Tay Visionz Photography while attending her HBCU Virginia State University to help her mom pay for college tuition. Through her company, Taylah has secured opportunities to photograph D1 athletics at Virginia State and Morgan State University. She aspires to shoot photography with the National Basketball Association and the National Football League. Follow ➡️ @tay_visionz_ on Instagram to check out her work and learn more about her business.
Chrissy Sheffey | Charismatic Creations
A KIPP DC alum, Chrissy is the owner of Charismatic Creations, a full beverage service that also includes personalized experiences and event staff. In 2017, Chrissy launched Charismatic Creations after 4 years of working in restaurants and bars in the Maryland area. Through her company, Chrissy helps clients curate lasting memories through creative and charismatic cocktails, while simultaneously combining her passion for social justice. What’s unique about Chrissy’s service is that she advocates for gardens in food deserts by teaching people in marginalized areas how to grow their own food and craft cocktails/mocktails with fresh ingredients. Follow ➡️ @charismaticcreations on Instagram to learn more about her business.
Marlon Curtis | Direct Focus Studio
A KIPP NJ alum, Marlon is a filmmaker, director, founder, and CEO of Direct Focus Studio, a video production company. Marlon has built a great team that includes a roster of fellow KIPP alumni in the creative field. Direct Focus Films has produced content for BET and the KIPP Foundation, to name a few. The team has an extensive range of experience and is always working on their craft. Follow ➡️ @directfocusstudio on Instagram for more of their content.
Simone Michelle Mariposa | Body Positive Influencer
A KIPP SoCal alum, Simone Michelle is an actor, content creator, influencer, and motivational speaker. She is an advocate of body positivity and social justice with aspirations to change the face of the entertainment industry to reflect diversity and inclusivity. She created the hashtag #WeWearWhatWeWant, a supportive movement to showcase plus size women making bold fashion choices in the name of confidence. She has worked with brands such as JC Penny, Fashion Nova, Dia & Co, and Torrid. She has also been featured in publications like People, Essence, SELF Magazine, Cosmopolitan, and Refinery29. Follow ➡️ @simonemariposa on Instagram for some inspiring body positivity.
If you are a KIPP alum and would like to be featured in future entrepreneur spotlights, email: alumni@kipp.org and follow @KIPPalum on Instagram to stay up to date on our National KIPP Alumni Network.
