Summary:
Muffy Mendoza is the founder of Brown Mamas, supporting Black women entrepreneurs.
The Brown Mamas Marketplace coincides with Small Business Saturday, promoting local businesses.
The event focuses on womb, wealth, and wellness for mom-preneurs.
Attendees will hear from experts on topics like herbal remedies and business ownership.
The marketplace aims to uplift Black-owned businesses in Pittsburgh.
Muffy Mendoza, the visionary founder of Brown Mamas, Inc. and the Brown Mamas Marketplace, is thrilled about the upcoming marketplace event this Small Business Saturday. This initiative not only marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season but also emphasizes the importance of supporting Black women in entrepreneurship.
A Mission to Support Local Black Mothers
Mendoza established Brown Mamas in 2012 with the goal of empowering local Black mothers to enhance their health and economic situations. At the time, resources for Black women venturing into entrepreneurship were scarce, especially for first-generation Black women business owners. Mendoza noted, “There was not a lot of information out there about how to start a business or how to maintain one.”
The Birth of the Marketplace
Prior to the pandemic, she launched the first Brown Mamas Marketplace, creating a platform for Black mom-owned businesses to showcase their products. “I did that because I needed space, and I knew other moms needed space, so why not create the space?” Mendoza explained.
Expanding Support and Resources
As her journey continued, Mendoza recognized the need for more support, specifically regarding the legal aspects of business ownership and finding an accountant. This year, the marketplace will feature speakers and professionals, including lawyers, to provide valuable insights.
Focus Areas of the Marketplace
The event will highlight three essential themes: womb, wealth, and wellness. Mendoza emphasized, “As a mom-preneur, you have to be holistic in your approach to living a good life.”
Expert Speakers
Attendees can look forward to insights from speakers such as Tayler Clemm, known as DAWA Mama, who will share knowledge about womb wellness and herbal remedies, and Kahlil Darden, founder of Young Black Motivated Kings and Queens.
Supporting Black-Owned Businesses
Mendoza intentionally scheduled the event for Small Business Saturday to bring attention to Black-owned businesses in Pittsburgh that often lack storefronts. The marketplace will showcase a diverse array of vendors, including food, jewelry, and clothing businesses, along with community organizations like the Pittsburgh Black Breastfeeding Circle.
Building Community
Local business owner Tyler Bowe expressed her admiration for Mendoza’s efforts, saying, “I love how she brings women and moms together to build a sense of community.” The event will take place at Emerald City on Smithfield Street from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Mendoza is excited for the future, with the next Brown Mamas Marketplace planned for spring 2025, aiming to further evolve and support mom-owned businesses in the community.
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