National Black Business Month shines a spotlight on the invaluable contributions Black-owned businesses make to our economy and communities. Many of these businesses are owned by Black veterans, whose unique blend of military experience and entrepreneurial spirit has led to their success. This August, IHG® Army Hotels celebrates these exceptional businesses and the inspiring individuals behind them.
True Products
Founded by Army veterans Ali B. Muhammad and Abdur-Rahim Shaheed and their business partner Malik Salem, True Products is committed to providing high-quality, eco-friendly household cleaning products. The company actively supports community development initiatives, striving to promote economic empowerment, and create positive change within underserved communities.
Black Sands Entertainment
Black Sands Entertainment, founded by Army veteran Manuel Godoy, is a publishing company that specializes in African mythology and Black history comics and graphic novels. The company aims to provide positive representation for Black youth and to educate readers about African and African American history. Black Sands Entertainment has gained a significant following, and their works are now available online and at major retail outlets.
Sarge FITT
Sarge FITT has revolutionized home fitness with its patented multifunctional exercise rack, the FITT Rack. Invented by Juan "Top" Biddix Jr., a retired Army Master Sergeant, the FITT Rack is a freestanding, adjustable, and portable exercise system designed for individuals of all ages, heights, sizes, and physical abilities. With the FITT Rack, this veteran and Black-owned business delivers a versatile and efficient workout experience, eliminating the need for multiple pieces of equipment or gym memberships.
Naturally London
Naturally London is a wellness brand focused on providing plant-based foot care products. It was founded by Chrissy Cabrera, a U.S. Army veteran. Chrissy's military experience played a significant role in shaping her resilience and commitment to self-care. After suffering with her own foot issues, she was inspired to create a range of products that promote foot health and overall well-being. Naturally London reflects her dedication to natural healing and her passion for sustainable, high-quality ingredients.
MyRuck
Founded by Army veterans Vic Hill and Brad Clark, MyRuck is a technology company focused on the human resources needs of service members, veterans, and military families from enlistment to retirement. The company leverages the military experience of its leadership to ensure that every veteran and military-connected employee maximizes their benefits, contributing to a supportive and inclusive workforce.
IndyGeneUS
IndyGeneUS is a company that focuses on collecting and analyzing genetic information to improve healthcare for people from diverse populations. As founder and CEO, Yusuf Henriques uses his experience as a former U.S. Army combat medic to address health disparities and help underserved communities though IndyGeneUS and other initiatives.
TrueFiktion
Founded by former Army combat engineer officer Stephane Manuel, TrueFiktion creates educational comics featuring diverse narratives about historical events. The comics include perspectives from marginalized groups to provide a more inclusive view of history and help students develop critical thinking skills and empathy. TrueFiktion collaborates with educators, historians, and artists to produce these comics and offers resources to integrate them into school curriculums.
EatOkra
After serving nine years as an Aviation Maintenance Engineer and earning a degree in Computer Science from Fordham University, Anthony Edwards wanted to find a way to support Black-owned businesses in his community. He and his wife Janice developed the EatOkra app that has grown into a nationwide directory which helps over 500,000 users connect with Black-owned restaurants, bakeries, cafes, food trucks, bars, and wineries across the U.S.
Keep Your Hair Headgear
Natasha Hinds, an Army veteran and founder of Keep Your Hair Headgear, recognizes the damage caused to textured hair by traditional materials like cotton, nylon, and wool. Her company produces silk and satin-lined military and civilian headgear that fosters healthy hair. Ten percent of the proceeds from the company’s profits is donated military cancer patients and survivors and veteran-owned, not-for-profit organizations that serve children and homeless female veterans.
Evolution Glamping
Tameika Rhodes, a 15-year Army veteran and current reservist, and her husband John (also a veteran) own and operate Evolution Glamping. They provide everything customers need (including set-up and tear-down) for luxury camping in their own backyard or a location of their choice. They show their support for other veteran- and Black-owned businesses by having them as vendors for their mobile glamping and events business.
4SYT Industries
4SYT Industries is a full-service facilities maintenance and general contracting company led by Army veteran Sheena Parker. 4YST has contracts with government buildings, public schools, and professional sports arenas, where her team of hundreds provides “Disney-like customer service” for their many clients.
Sailor’s Brew Coffee
Former Airborne Ranger and Pasadena, California native Trévon Sailor teamed up with his brothers to start their own coffee company in 2018. Sailor’s Brew Coffee is a brand with a mission to inspire people to lead an intentional life, while enjoying single-origin Ethiopian coffee. The company ships luxury coffee and premium merchandise nationwide and works with service partners to provide customers with a “coffee experience that is unparalleled in its quality and integrity.”
The Platinum Gallery
Danielle “Dani” Johnson served as a generator mechanic in the U.S. Army before opening her own salon and later founding The Platinum Gallery, a consulting firm trusted by businesses across industries. The company provides one-on-one remote or in-person consulting services, group camps and retreats, and educational seminars and symposiums.
The Popcorn Professor
Jasmine Lewis describes herself as a “mom, educator, US Army veteran, community builder, and lover of any snack you can imagine!” As the founder of The Popcorn Professor, a Black-owned business that ships handcrafted popcorn and other treats nationwide, she attributes her success to passion and persistence.
These exceptional businesses and their founders exemplify the resilience, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit of Black veterans. Their contributions extend beyond their products and services; they are pillars of their communities, providing employment, mentorship, and inspiration. During National Black Business Month, we celebrate these outstanding individuals and their businesses.