São Paulo

Ariel learned to cut hair in prison and developed the most famous hair-cut in Brazil: “Blindado”. The most resistant cut, able to resist even a motorcycle passing-by. Today he travels the world to spread the essence of Brazilian favelas cuts, a styled called "chavosos".

OG favela gear from south side of São Paulo. Worn by the real ones, from artists to rappers. They also have a community bar and football team.

A Brazilian Indigenous Afro brand led by Isaac Silva. Genderless democratic fashion for all kinds of bodies. Haute couture is also present in its DNA, all handmade by the stylist Isaac Silva himself.

Led by Cameroonian Melanito Biyouha, this stylish African eatery uses spices to make their food with love. The environment welcomes everyone as a family. Each employee who passes through the kitchen ends up recreating the dishes of their land (the extensive menu has more than 40 options with different kind of flavours from Africa).

Working as a fashion designer for more than 10 years, Luiz Cláudio, is filled with the desire to build an amazing and intricate fashion label, characterised by the use of manual techniques and precious fabrics worthy of a couture atelier.

Lu Safro is an incredible hair designer who creates true masterpieces and owns a saloon in the heart of downtown, near the iconic Galeria Rock. She usually does hair styling for the most important fashion shows in São Paulo Fashion Week, always alongside her daughter, Mika Safro, the most relevant young beauty artist in the emerging fashion scene.

Amazing vegan cuisine created by Congolese refugee Pitchou Luambo, with the help of his daughter Marie Luambo. "The basis of African gastronomy is vegetables, which we need to demystify that there is meat in our kitchen, a habit that was practically acquired only in Brazil when our ancestors arrived here".

Cacau Brito doesn’t do nails, she does art. Much demanded by the most relevant artists in the rap scene, and using several techniques combined to reach its perfection in composing unique and memorable nails. Nail Queen? definitely.

Bar do Biu is an absolute classic and is the headquarters of Corinthians soccer team fans in the west of São Paulo. That typical Brazilian-style bar, serving the best Northeastern dishes & traditional feijoada every day.

Jardin do Centro is a plant shop and cafeteria in Downtown. They occupy 2 floors of a building hosting a film room, a co-working space and promotes black artists thought events and exhibitions.

Black-Owned Businesses in São Paulo

Kinez Riza and Nindy Noto

Bali

The stone foundations of this temple are megalithic, or around 2000 years old, and is one of Bali’s most sacred temples under the Agung Volcano. It is exceptionally large with stone paved alleys leading you towards the interior complex.

Tenganan Pegeringsinan Village is one of Bali’s earliest villages known for their ‘evil warding’ geringsing textiles and Perang Pandan, an annual ceremony held at the end of June that showcases fighters striking each other with Pandan leaves.

Melukat in Sebatu is a spring temple cleanse in the Sebatu valley, discovered as a sacred site 8 years ago and potent in energy. Required to go with a mangku or guide to enter the premises and conduct the ceremony.

Qi Temple Acupuncture, Bamboo Cupping, Moxibustion and Tui Na is my go to for a regular fix to ease physical or mental tension in Canggu.

Their Codage facials are especially compatible with my skincare needs, alongside their stretch shiatsu massage and signature massage. The Olaplex hair treatment and eyelash extensions are essential too.

John Hardy Seminyak serves a fantastic lunch inspired by flavours across the archipelago paired with jamu drinks in the Seminyak flagship store of jeweller John Hardy, known for Bali heritage jewellery techniques such as the chain link weave in silver, gold and precious metals.

Pura Ayun in Bongkasa - a quiet temple in the village of Bongkasa across the valley from Sayan Road, flanked by ancient banyan trees so old and colossal it is visible along the tree line as you look across the valley

A beautiful stay in the mountains in an organic coffee plantation with different styled rooms if you’re seeking colder nights by the fire and incredible organic food, owned by Ibu Kentri Norberg who is a mother to all. There are several natural river pools on the property accessible in a 15 minute trek when the days get hot.

Agustian Supriatna is a multi-instrumentalist who leads sound healing sessions using various instruments such as bamboo flutes, sitar, steel hand pan, bells and singing bowls. Catch him perform at venues in Ubud to help you attain a more peaceful and aligned state of mind.

Tirta Usada is a holistic clinic led by Tjokorde Gde Kerthyasa. Trained as a homoeopath and a Buteko Breathwork practitioner, he is also a tea master. If you have a specific ailment, he’s full of great advice. You can also head to the clinic for general advice on how to incorporate natural health practices into your daily life.

Savitri Devi is a Kundilini yoga teacher, reiki master, as well as a holistic and wellness lifestyle coach. She is based in the wellness hub of the island, an area called Ubud, and teaches at three different places there.

Bali's Spiritual and Wellness Side with Nindy and Kinez

Hawai'i

Owner and head instructor, Dharma Shay, opened the gym which specialises in functional fitness, athletic training, personal training, nutrition guidance, HIIT, post-natal exercise classes, youth athletic training, strength and conditioning, Olympic lifting, jiu-jitsu, and stand up martial arts. This is a great gym on the big island with highly trained and professional staff.

Owners, Randy and Gabby, opened their locally-sourced restaurant on the Big Island in 2011. They have delicious options such as blackened ono sandwiches, their Da Aina burger with a fantastic avocado cream sauce, lilikoi cheesecake or their tropical dreams ice cream. They also have an online shop selling their signature Kona Ketchup, Hawaiian Fire Sauce, and Mauka Mustard at great prices. Vegan friendly!

A beautiful studio in Kailua Kona that offers vinyasa, power, yin, restorative, and meditation classes.

A family-operated hearty, healthy, soul restaurant serving delicious, organic food in the heart of Lihue. The menu consists of Kauai-grown traditional soul food staples such as collard greens, candied yams, fried fish, and fresh baked cornbread.

Opened by two best friends, Chase and Mercedes, Pau Hana offers a high-quality mobile bar service for any event, celebration or reason to have a great time with delicious drinks in hand without having to worry about your guests desires.

After receiving her cosmetology license in 2009 from Western Beauty Institute in Van Nuys, California Raquel with her Los Angeles-native hustle and island girl heart is living out her dreams in Maui. In 2017, Raquel became a Curl Coach Educator for DevaCurl. While curly hair is a passion of Raquel's she also loves to style, colour, and cut all hair types. She has an online shop carrying various hair products as well.

A wonderful artist who tattoos around Maui and Kauai Island. He specialises in black and grey, Polynesian tribal, and ornamental work.

Qiana, a native New Yorker, from Red Hook, Brooklyn and her husband from Southern Italy opened Sale Pepe - Maui’s authentic Italian restaurant. Their pastas and artisan Italian pizzas are crafted by a certified pizzaiola with fresh, local ingredients in classic and creative presentations. Paired with the enjoyment of a fun, social wine bar atmosphere you cant find anywhere else on the island.

They are open for business.

This teahouse has multiple locations across Oahu inside various Sand People and Down To Earth retail stores. Founded in 2015, Kye Teahouse was established on the foundation of Going Back to Nature. Their ingredients are grown in Hawaii & picked only at the peak of freshness. It's one of the reasons why their tea taste so incredible. All of the packing and shipping materials are biodegradable & environmentally sustainable.

Chef, Lamont Brown, showcases locally-sourced ingredients on a worldly platform, with emphasis on Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine. Visit their restaurant in Haleiwa for the perfect date night, or a great time with friend.

Owner, Soufiane Bouharkat, grew up in Paris and opened his first cafe there. Later moving to Oahu, he opened Le Crepe Cafe in 2009. He creates a bright and enthusiastic Ohana environment for everyone to experience and strives daily to provide his guests with fresh, natural ingredients that not only taste good, but makes you feel great as well.

Locally-owned scuba diving company located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Manny will take you on incredible diving adventures and leave with an experience you'll never forget! Check out his website for a list of activities and price.

Husband and wife team, the Bensons, whose roots are from Louisiana, were inspired by the Hawaiian Islands, which they decided to make Oahu home and open a mouth-watering deli.

Hawaii finally has their very first co-working space! Located on Oahu and birthed from the idea of creating a community of creators and dreamers, BoxJelly strives to cultivate an inspiring workplace that embodies the worth of a well-lived in home.

A food Truck that specializes in Jamaican cuisine. The truck was inspired by a great friend of owner, Damon, that taught him how to cook Jamaican food. He passed away about thirteen years ago and he's been sharing his food with friends and family for years. He actually started the business in December 2019 with a food cart only selling chicken and shrimp plates. In June of 2020, he obtained the food truck, expanded his menu to brown stew chicken and curry chicken. They also do a jerk pork belly, sandwiches and tacos with the Caribbean flare.

Black-Owned Businesses in Hawai'i

Amsterdam

I love walking with the dogs in Beatrixpark. It's a park where all small dogs meet, it's the place where I am able to put my mind at ease.

Buffet van Odette is my favourite place for breakfast – it's super low key but they have the best food. I always do my business meetings here so it's kind of the place that reminds me that I'm doing quite well.

The Frozen Fountain is my favourite store for furniture, as they represent so much Dutch design talent!

Skins is my favourite skincare store – I'm there weekly, I'm obsessed with skincare.

La Fiorita is my favourite restaurant/ I go there for celebrations with my husband. It's the best [for] pure food and organic wines!

I love a boat tour over the Amstel. which is the most beautiful part of Amsterdam.

6 Spots You Need to Visit in Amsterdam with Designer Elza Wandler

Azeema

London

Devon

Divers Cove is an open water, wild swimming location in Surrey. Divers Cove is special because it’s quiet and hidden away. Even though it is a manmade lake it’s a very natural environment surrounded by trees, it feels wild but also safe. 

The water is clean and shines a blue-green colour in the light reflecting the stone/sand of the ex-quarry and the hues of the sky. This place is particularly special as we chose this location for our NIKE SWIM shoot. Through the shoot we wanted to showcase the effects that swimming can have on our friendships, our interdependent relationship with nature, and the gratitude we feel for our bodies. 

The group of five Muslim women photographed – Zaineb Abelque, Memunatu Barrie, Tasneem Elnayal, Maz Ullah, and Rania Qaddoura – were able to swim freely with the help of Nike’s Victory Swim line, a modest swimwear collection for women of various modesties. What’s less common than seeing Muslim women represented positively at all in the media is seeing them represented in all their diversity. 

This location also has a hot tub and sauna and can also be hired for private bookings. A female lifeguard can also be requested.


The beaches at the Pier side of Walton/Frinton stretch out far at low tide and the water is shallow and sandy suitable for all ages. Towards the Naze tower/cliffs it gets wilder and quieter. If you like adventure and less crowds then this side of Walton is best for you. The beaches here have the remains of 2nd world war Pillboxes that have fallen from the top of the cliffs and as you go further to where the cliffs melt away the beach becomes even more wild and narrower. This area of Sussex the sedimentary composition is sandstone and clay so don’t be surprised if you get clay squidged between your toes. Be careful of the tides if you venture down to swim here! 

A peaceful watery haven in the middle of North London for an open water swim. You have to book a time slot via the website, but this spot is better than Hampstead ponds. No mud and a refreshing swim. This swimming location is probably best for more confident swimmers, although there are lifeguards standing watch. 

There are also full facilities & changing rooms. 

If you don’t fancy swimming this is still a lovely place to visit and walk around, there are two reservoirs, one for swimming and one that is a nature reserve. Both are beautiful. 

This area of Devon is so stunning and green. The beaches here are mostly pebble beaches with some sandy in places. Though those end up being commercialised and very busy for that reason. Away from the crowds, one cove in particular you get to by walking past/through Goodrington Sands and up over the field track to where it winds down to a secluded beach. Here you will find people having BBQ's, local parties and locals hanging out. This is a well known spot for the people who live in the area.

Going for a quick swim here when the sun is coming down over the beach is magical. The water is cool but refreshing and crystal clear. Wear beach shoes in the water as the ground can be uneven/rocky in places.

Elberry cove is just one of many coves in Devon, there are so many rocky coves and tucked away beaches to explore and swim with friends.

No 5. Was going to be Crystal Palace Swimming pool (this is another location we have used for a swim project with Nike. Featuring Swimmer and Equestrian Ghaida, Directed by Nadira Amrani.) However the iconic pool is currently under renovation. 

So the final recommendation will be the late British-Iraqi Architect, Zaha Hadid’s creation. The London Aquatic Centre. Both cavernous and futuristic, Its architecture is inspired by the fluid geometry of water in motion and encompasses a breaking wave. 

Swimming here is quite simply epic.

Dive into the Best Spots in the South with Azeema

This is the spot for anyone who is serious about tea. The owner Amanda is a real authority in the tea world. She has been appointed by the Chinese government as the European ambassador of Pu-erh tea. Formocha also does traditional tea ceremony and the upstairs seating area is a real oasis within the Jordaan area. They specialise in tea from China, Taiwan and Japan.

Is a 'by reservation only', vegan ramen restaurant - don't be put off by the 100% plant based ramen. It is incredible.

The real ones in Amsterdam know this is THE late night dining spot. Tell me where else you'll be able to get a Hong Kong style Typhoon Shelter Fried Lobster and some Tsingtaos in the AM's.

An amazing Korean florist, they also host workshops on floral arrangement techniques.

Hands down the best Chinese supermarket in Amsterdam.

Assort is a Japanese hair salon with locations all over the world. The staff are the best and are extremely creative.

Great Filipino bakery, their ube cake is banging!

A hidden gem, some of the best sushi in Amsterdam. They also make their own ice cream.

Honestly one of my favourite spots in Amsterdam, really tasty Malaysian food. Everything on the menu is great but their Sambal Lady Finger's (Okra), Laksa and Hainanese Chicken Rice are must haves.

Asian Owned Businesses in Amsterdam 

Orienteer Magazine

Scotland

Wales

We took a trip to Arisaig, Scotland with MW guiding us to go sea kayaking. The water is so clear it looks like the Caribbean, we kayaked from island to island spotting seals as we went. With the right equipment you can also go wild camping, snorkelling or fishing. 


Swim level: Beginner 
Public Transport: Yes 
Facilities: Lifeguard 


A photoshoot took us walking the Watkins Path of Snowdonia. We were following the river up which twists and turns through many rock pools and waterfalls, the rock pools make the perfect spot to stop for a swim and cliff jumping! The clearest water and easy to access.  


Swim Level: Intermediate

Public Transport:  Yes

Facilities: None 

Where I am from in Rickmansworth, there are a lot of lakes that you can go sailing on and spots that would be great for wild swimming. I haven’t been back in years but have fond memories. Catch a short train from London and take an easy stroll around them, it's a great spot to go if you just want to be in nature and surrounded by water. 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport:  No 

Facilities: Toilets / Car Park 

When walking The Old Man Of Coniston, the blue lake is the perfect scene for a mirror lake shot - you get reflections of the mountain behind and the sky, if you can stay till sundown! The colours are so vivid. 


Swim Level: Not for Swimming 

Public Transport:  Yes 

Facilities: No 

There is a lake at the bottom of Pen Y Fan, great spot for a wild swim after a long hike. You can pitch up for the night in the nearby forest and wild camp next to small streams. It's a great spot for a few days as with the right equipment this water can be used for drinking water and to clean your cook sets! 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport: No 

 Facilities: No 

Orienteer Mapazine's Top Weekend Trips That End with a Dip

Marlou Fernanda

Rotterdam

This is where I used to get my hair products when I had long curly hair.

When we’re in the city, we usually pass by to get a Pastechi.

For two years we’ve made it a habit to order pastechi, cheese balls, sate ku batata and other dishes from Curaçao at this specific place for the holidays, especially for New Year's Eve. I know the owners, and normally they’d do the catering whenever my good friend Junelisa had a party, for example. I’ve been waiting for them to open a restaurant ever since. They have the best Caribbean food in town (for me) no doubt!

I used to go to this café/venue/club where they’d have R&B, funk, soul, salsa and bossa-nova nights. I loved seeing so many people from Brazil coming together in Rotterdam to play beautiful samba music. I’d always go here with my big sister – I really miss those days! We used to meet so many people there and I felt like I was learning more about different cultures and different people.

I’m in their extended family program, and for that reason I’ve been able to go behind the scenes and visit their archives. They had so many crazy items that I’ve never seen before. A lot of slavery related items too. Curaçao and Brazil, of course, were a part of this too. I remember feeling so connected to my heritage and actually became angry at what ‘they’ stole from us.

Marlou Fernanda's Guide To Caribbean Spots In Rotterdam

Sydney

BOCK:ARIE, is a unisex accessories and clothing brand founded in 2019 by designer Naomi Bockarie. Derived from the notion of bringing art into everyday life, the brands first collection features unique non-animal leather bags, that can be worn in numerous ways in the one design. The design philosophy is to allow the wearer to reinterpret the design into their own and to create their own personal look that is not entirely dictated by the designer and as a result BOCKARIE designs are intended to be ever evolving. Their next collection will feature clothing.

Being Mad About Curls, we specialize in all types of curls – Wavy, Curly and Afro. Based in Sydney Australia. With celebrity clients like Zadie Smith, FKA Twigs, Amanda’s Stenberg and Yemi Alade, we provide our curly haired beauties numerous and well-educated options for styling and wearing your unique look confidently.
Whether your curls are in their natural form, chemically treated or manipulated, we offer a judgement free zone so you can enjoy your hair’s versatility the way you like. 
Our role as a team is to simplify your curl journey, complimented by our Rumbie & Co curly hair products, our curly hair services and education. We also are creating a curl community that will empower and support you, leaving you time to embrace and love your curls.

Jarin Street began by recognising the misuse of Aboriginal art and the industry's failure to protect the artists and Aboriginal designs, as well as a failure to highlight the artists themselves.
We support up and coming Indigenous artists to get their designs out there and seen in day to day life.
We aim to provide ongoing ethical and sustainable support to the artists who contribute their work on our yoga mats and soon to come - active wear and fashion garments.

Sauti Systems is a multifaceted brand, focused on providing an atmospheric event of diverse and enjoyable musical content. We aim to bring positivity through all creative avenues, producing an all round inclusive experience.

A hip-hop dance experience designed to make you feel good about yourself. Usually held in a no mirrors, dim lights, judgement free space. Currently running livestream classes with dance courses also available so you can pause, rewind, and groove in your own time.

This homey Redfern cafe offers classic brunch food alongside pastries injected with Indigenous ingredients (lemon-myrtle cheesecake, hello!). Community groups can use the back room to hold meetings, and run pottery, poetry, and painting nights.

After spending its infancy as a pop-up, the popular Nigerian joint has recently found a permanent home in Newtown. It is the currently the only restaurant solely dedicated to Nigerian cuisine. All the usual suspects feature on the menu – jollof rice, puff puffs, fried plantains – with the most recent addition to the menu being suya (grilled spiced beef served with onions, tomatoes and capsicum).

Located in the heart of Sydney’s western suburbs, Gursha Ethiopian is a no-fuss, affordable and authentic Ethiopian food experience. There’s a large variety of vegan options alongside the more well-known Ethiopian dishes – doro wat and kitfo.

Bangarra is a critically acclaimed Indigenous performing arts company. Their dance technique incorporates 40,000 years of culture with contemporary movement, creating vibrant performances. While their scheduled tour is on hold due to current circumstances, they have made a number of performances available to stream for free online.

Eden Dessalegn provides traditional hair braiding with a modern twist. Self-taught, she started off charging $5 dollar a head in high school, graduated to market stalls, and now has her own studio based in south-west Sydney.

Tegan Murdock creates bespoke jewellery and keepsakes using a weaving technique taught to her by her mother. Customers can also learn to weave with her starter kits (which comes with videos and written instructions) or by attending one of her workshops. She is currently running these workshops online.

Black-Owned Businesses in Sydney

Manchester

Alkaline Way is a family run business that provides an array of plant based products at excellent prices. From soft body butter creams to Sea Moss, their website is the perfect shop for keeping your body healthy, inside and out.

Pull Up Bar is a late night, laid-back Jamaican joint serving up spicy and authentic food. Dining in here, you'll see the floor-to-ceiling murals and eat some of the best Jerk in town. There's also a Reggae Roast on Sundays (with a vegan option of roast pumpkin) and a yummy list of rum-laced cocktails that provide all the vibes.

Boogie Moli is an artist, who uses a mix of different mediums such as wheat paste, acrylics and spray paint, to create unique canvas’s you can purchase directly from his website.

Delicious bite-size cake pops and other mini sweet treats in and around the city.

A modern barber shop with a good mix of clientele and a barber with a knowledge of many cool and modern hairstyles including comb-overs, fades, hightop etc.

Serves contemporary Caribbean food and cocktails with travel-inspired flavours all the way to Manchester.

Owner, Javeno, runs this gym of the year with an aim for all community residents from young to old to have as many opportunities as possible to better their health.

A travel on request hair service that specialises in custom wig units, micro-rings, sew-ins, bundles, closures, as well as dyeing and styling. Hair can also be done for bridal events and other special occasions.

Prince Cofie Owusu, known as Shakka, launched Trap Kitchen in 2016 from his mum's flat on a housing estate in Camberwell. Now, it's so successful, it's branched all the way in the North. Expect a mouth-watering and eclectic menu with influences from soul food to Chinese to African-American cuisine.

A lash technician and beauty therapist specialising in all things fabulous lashes. Deposit required before booking.

Offers authentic Caribbean cuisine just for take away at the moment, on Deliveroo and JustEat, as well as delivery via phone number in their IG bio. All of their dishes are cooked using the freshest ingredients, and all meat dishes are certified Halal.

Fresh authentic Caribbean food that specialises in jerk chicken made with beautiful blends of Jamaica spices.

A Mancunian foodie at its finest who recreates street foods from across the world with bold flavours. A take-away service for those who want to eat good.

Delicious home-cooked meals delivered to your home by Chef Exose, a Masterchef The Professionals Finalist in 2019.

Manchester-based label flipping the script on the ethics of the fashion and textile industry, found in the Whitworth Art Gallery and established by textile designer, Ibukun Baldwin.

Black-Owned Businesses in Manchester

Paris

Nestled in the heart of Château Rouge, a predominantly African neighbourhood, you will fall in love with House Château Rouge. They design everything themselves, from backpacks and T-shirts to Bissap and Air Jordans from a recent Nike collaboration. The brand empowers artists from across the African continent and is challenging the perception of traditional ‘luxury’.

A regular spot for our Parisian community. L'embuscade serves up some of the most delicious Afro Vegan food. Inspired by West and central Africa, with some hints of Soul Food, L'embuscade serves up an Afro Vegan menu unlike no other. Everything takes good, but our favourite dishes are the Kentucky Fried Cauliflower and Doudou Jack Burger. The prices are low and affordable.

Mama Jackson is located near Paris’ Gare de Lyon train station and is an all around ode to Black American culture. From the music playing over the speakers to the art hanging on the walls. Go there to eat some seriously tasty fried chicken - we recommended trying the Waffle Rasta Burger which is a delicious stack of fried and pulled chicken with plantain.

Présence Africaine is a pan-African quarterly cultural, political, and literary magazine, published in Paris, France, and founded by Alioune Diop in 1947. In 1949, they expanded to include a publishing house and a bookstore on rue des Écoles in the Latin Quarter of Paris, which has a multitude of incredible books centred around race and colonialism to (un)learn from.

GUMBO YAYA is a Southern American inspired halal restaurant in Paris. Serving up some of the best halal fried chicken in Paris, this restaurant is known and loved by Parisians and visitors alike.

Jah Jah by Le Tricycle serves vegan cuisine but not only. You can also taste Jamaican flavors matching the two Rastafari founders, Coralie Jouhier and Daqui Gomis. Jah Jah gets inspired by the world as a whole and makes your taste buds travel across the world.

Long-stewed and spicy Caribbean, Creole and Cajun dishes. You can stay up late and dance here too.

Silwet is a sustainable slow fashion label which focuses on “silhouettes” instead of collections. “Silwet” is the Creole transcription of the French word “silhouette”. The name was chosen in tribute to founder Lenny Guerrier’s, Haitian roots.

Baba Zulu is an incredible soul food restaurant. Order the Chicken and Waffles!

One of the best nail salon's in Paris for nail art.

Black-Owned Businesses in Paris

Ebhoni

Toronto

Canada’s largest Black-owned beauty supply store - plus the owner is female!! They have literally everything you need and I mean EVERYTHING!! And the owner Zhorrah is THE sweetest person you’ll ever meet.

Located on the east side of the city, I will happily deal with the crazy traffic in Toronto and get me some Chris Jerk. My favs are Jerk Chicken Shawarma or the Jerk Poutine. I will recommend getting there before 2 because they’re food will sell out quick!!

Is the best place to go especially after a good party, this is the spot!! It’s like your Dad, Uncle or Grandpa was cooking. The restaurant smells like my Grandma’s kitchen on a Sunday. I usually will get their Ox-tail but will always switch it up for a nice soup when it’s cold.

Streetwear clothing store on Queen St. Very comfortable and casual clothing...ask for Fresh when you go!

Ebhoni's Favourite Black-Owned Businesses in Toronto

New York City 

LICHEN NYC is location in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It’s a design shop that’s helping to democratize design and proselytize more under-the-radar participants. Founded by Jared Blake and Ed Be the two have curated an exceptional archive of accessible vintage and contemporary furniture.

Sitting at the crossroads of Chinatown and the Lower East Side, CHOP SUEY CLUB is a boutique store in downtown NYC focusing on contemporary Chinese design, arts & culture. They procure design products from young Chinese creatives around the world, showcasing seasonal rotations of items for diverse lifestyles. They believe the best way to dissipate xenophobia is to make your own culture more accessible to others. Chop Suey Club is an effort to open up contemporary Chinese culture to a larger audience.

ROOTED is a modern-day plant company reconnecting you to nature, one houseplant at a time. Rooted was started because they firmly believe in the positive mental, emotional and physical health benefits associated with having greenery in your space.


.IMAGE is the first sneaker consignment shop to open in Queens, New York. Located in the heart of Queens, Main St Flushing they carry many hard to find and limited sneakers you will not find anywhere else.

The space is a more than a restaurant, it’s a home away from home. With a growing number of Korean-Americans and Korean internationals working and studying in the city, HER NAME IS HAN wanted to create a place where these busy dwellers of New York can find the perfect home-cooked meal, prepared with the goal of bringing about the flavours of their mothers’ cooking.
Using only traditional Korean ingredients and recipes to produce what we like to call “Korean soul food”, their mission was not to replicate the fancy contemporary culinary experience, but to design a nostalgic one, where guests can enjoy an authentic Korean meal, all with the same feeling of comfort as eating at home.

Make sure to get your trim at 12 PELL, one of our favourite barbershops and community spaces in the city.

MINT BY MAI is an amazing lash extension business run by lash artist and educator, Tammy Mai. In addition to her lash services, Tammy offers educational 1:1 training to those who are looking to start their own businesses.

JEEPNEY is the best Filipino Food in NYC hands down. The restaurant, founded by Nicole Ponseca’s and Miguel Trinidad, has been at the fore-front of popularizing Filipino food in the city. It’s named after the "JEEPNEY", the WWII jeeps left behind by US occupation. Filipinos took the left-over jeeps chopped them up and tricked them out, creating a vibe, a mode of transport and a symbol that is uniquely Filipino. That is the essence of being of Jeepney and being Filipino - its a vibe, a mode, and a symbol of uniqueness.

The original Lhasa in Jackson Heights is one of our favourite places in the city to eat Momos. Each Momo flavour is so delicious it’s understandably difficult to choose which flavour you want to commit to. So to make it easier for you, they do great combo selections, perfect for lunch of dinner.

Asian Owned Businesses in NYC

Ferro and Reiss of VBX

A very cool new event space founded by good friends. It feels somewhere between a club and warehouse and is showing amazing potential so far. What really sets Lofi apart from the pack is their cultural programming. Check out the experimental live performances at Basisklanken when you get the chance. We guarantee you won’t regret it.

Being behind the controls at Shelter always feels like taking a warm bath. This club has been essential to our artistic development over the years. This is a world-class venue, with a great sound system.

Like Shelter this venue played a big role in our artistic development over the years. These red containers have their own magical charm. You just can’t beat the feeling of sunlight coming through Bret’s windows, as the after hours are just getting started.

One of our favourite new after hours locations of the city. A former piracy radio broadcast location, now outfitted with a Function One sound system. Intimate wooden dance floor and balcony. In summer you can even catch some rays on the deck.

Our local go-to place to satisfy our gear addiction and engage into nerd talk about said gear with owner Tim. We try to avoid going there too much because of financial reasons, but it’s hard to resist to urge. The fact that it’s around the corner of our studio doesn’t help at all...

Seawolf records is Alfredo Romagnoli. He is a very knowledgeable guy and often attends our parties. This gives him a good idea of our taste, so his recommendations are usually on point. Whilst Seawolf used to be an 'appointment only, storage-locker digging', Alfredo is currently setting up his own record store. Doors open in April!

Located in a small alleyway on a stones throw distance from Amsterdam Central Station, this record store is a long term staple in the cities musical landscape. Open seven days a week and a great selection, featuring both second hand, as well as new gems. They even have a bin marked “VBX Sound” ;) Owners Dewey & Richard have an encyclopaedic knowledge about music and are always willing to lend a helping hand.

Best ramen place in town. One guy, he cooks... he cooks good, no alcohol, very Japanese. You can find us there, for sure, once a week.

Even though Ferro doesn’t like cheese, we still want to mention this place. They took a very Dutch product cheese and managed to turn eating it into a completely different experience. Definitely stop by this place for an authentic, but modernised Amsterdam experience.

A hidden gem in the Southern part of the city. Living room setting, vegetarian food that has the potential to convert even the most hardcore carnivores, amazing selection of wines and superb service. Be sure to make your reservations well in advance, because this place is always fully booked.

A really nice smart shop in the Red Light District. They know all about the stuff they sell. The place feels zen & grounded and even has a cactus garden.

Located on the Amsterdam canals, this spa is the perfect place to recover after a long weekend of partying.

Amsterdam with Ferro & Reiss of VBX

The category is…Black storytelling! Their focus is to make stories by African, Caribbean and Afro-Latinx fam available and readily accessible. You can currently find them at their bookstore pop up in Shoreditch Boxpark.

London’s first ever cactus and succulent shop. Offering a selection of the most unusual and exotic plants sourced from across the UK and Europe. Their online store is still available to shop on.

Eat of Eden serves up some of the best tasting specialist plant based cuisine in there many locations across London. We recommend the callaloo, ackee and macaroni pie.

Brixton Soup Kitchen are a Brixton-based service for the homeless and people in need. However, they help people who are from London and surrounding areas. Their charity provides hot food, support and counselling for people in need. They rely on donations and volunteers to continue their work, which you can easily donate to on their website.

2021 Andam prize winner and a distinctive new voice in the menswear arena, Bianca Saunders has been capturing the attention of the fashion world, alongside the likes of Kanye West and WizKid. The London designer's pieces counter the traditional notions of gender and masculinity and draws from touchstones on either side of her British and West Indian background. Her collection is available to purchase at Browns.

Black Cultural Archives is the home of Black British History. Their mission is to collect, preserve and celebrate the histories of people of African and Caribbean descent in the UK and to inspire and give strength to individuals, communities and society.

If you’re looking to cleanse your home and space, Cremate’s natural incense hand-dipped in London is the shit. They come in two scents: Mary Mother of God and Middle Way. We love both.

Homage Tees are responsible for those T-shirts emblazoned with the faces of British icons like Louis Theroux, Princess Di and David Attenborough.

South London rooted Jewellery and accessory brand Image Gang has garnered a global community of courageous and creative young women. You can purchase Image Gang on ASOS and directly via their website.

Who doesn't need fresh crepes? One of the many businesses created for our culture.

The world would not be the same without Carribean food. Riaz Phillips created Belly Full: Caribbean Food in the UK, to document a journey across the UK meeting the people behind the county's most popular Caribbean eateries. If you love your jerk and rice & peas, why not educate yourself on their history?

Whilst in quarantine, supply yourself with the more fresh and delicious fruit straight to your door weekly. They also give more variety than your basic Tesco selection.

The only paradox we want to be in. Delicious plant based recipes, plant based catering for dinner parties.

Exploring the space where football and the Black experience intersects.

Black Thrive is a partnership between communities, statutory organisations, voluntary and private sector. They work together to reduce the inequality and injustices experienced by Black people in mental health services. They address the barriers which lead to poorer outcomes across a range of social factors, such as education, employment, housing, and so on, all of which may negatively impact one’s health and wellbeing.

Born from a lack of ethnically diverse natural hair care in the luxury beauty industry. Nigerian-Italian Loretta De Feo devised Dizziak – a deep conditioning formula that provides course, textured hair with the rich hydration it needs and deserves. A revolution in multi-cultural hair care, Dizziak has been coined an aphrodisiac for Afro hair – delivering visible and touchable results in minutes.

Specialists in African and Caribbean Literature since 1966. For over 50 years New Beacon Books has made available to Britain and its communities poetry, literature, non –fiction, history and children’s books from Africa, Caribbean, Asia, African America, Europe, South America and Britain.

Welcome to the home of natural honey! Founded by local Walthamstow legend, you can subscribe to receive raw honey to your doorstep or even buy bees for yourself.

SEASON is a trailblazing football and fashion platform that launched in London in 2016 to counter the male, pale and sometimes stale state of modern football culture. They tell stories that showcase, celebrate and empower female fans authentically, while unpacking important issues, emphasising diversity and collaborating with exciting creative talent.

Founded by Karl Jouanni, Alive & More is a forward-thinking, and gravity-defying fashion brand. Living within the cosmos of his other venture, TEAM RELMS, ALIVE & MORE is a streetwear label that brings something new, fresh, and all-encompassing to the table. The concept is simple, get the RELMS app, play the game, and travel to the virtual fashion shrine to unlock your very real garments, and, while you’re at it, immerse yourself in the world of Team Relms as well.

Bleu is a creative interior design, mid-century furniture store based in Herne Hill, South London. They source our illustrious stock from around the world. Most of their products are mid-century modern, 20th century design, decorative art, vintage industrial furniture, vintage African masks and art. They also offer specialist upholstery and restoration too!

Trap House Salon is a safe, judgement free space to get your your hair, nails and lashes done at affordable prices. They give you that good good experience and you always leave looking fly.

Gingham doll is a small womenswear brand based in London who continuously excite the fashion palette, using classic silhouettes but with a fresher twist. They are still operating and offering Free post worldwide and have just been informed that our boutique in Shoreditch will reopen on the 20th June.

Pureté Nature is wellness brand for luxury skincare, haircare, aromatherapy and home fragrances. All of their products are ethically sourced and handcrafted by themselves using the finest natural ingredients.

The best radio station in the world. Need we say more? You can subscribe to NTS and become a member now.

Learn how to use your space with Storage Goals. They offer customised and stylish storage solutions that are tailored to your personality. Using Scandinavian designed products from Elfa, they cater for all your home and office storage needs.

In 2016, Dutch streetwear brand Patta, opened its London store doors in the middle of Soho. Ready to introduce London's community to everything it represents, Patta have continuously stayed a brand that influences culture in London and across the world.

The Prince of Peckham is a pub for south London, by south London. The community pub is for everyone in the area, with a downstairs bar and pub, and an amazing event space. On the top floor there is a music room for parties, weddings, meetings, location shoots, live music, art exhibitions, and all other celebrations. Street food kings White Men Can't Jerk are kitchen residents serving up jerk chicken, Caribbean roasts and stacks of wings. It's a vibe all year around.

Based in East London - Hackney. They specialise in running fitness classes, personal training, membership and hiring out our space to fitness professionals. Their goals are to create a safe space for groups and individuals to improve their lifestyles through health, fitness, sports and wellbeing.

Black-Owned Businesses in London

Swim Dem Crew

Brighton

Margate

We love taking trips to Brighton’s lesser-talked about beach in Saltdean as it’s got plenty of space and less crowding, it’s more local. It’s just a 10 minute bus journey or drive from Brighton centre. A huge bonus of this beach is that Saltdean Lido is less than 100 metres away, providing you with a beautiful art-deco backdrop to your swim and all the facilities that come with a swimming pool (changing rooms, toilets, café). Saltdean Beach is pebbled, like it’s cousin in Brighton, but don’t let that dampen your experience of the crashing waves and tame (by the UKs standards) sounds of seagulls. It’s a place where you can set up shop with your friends for the day in the summer and enter the water at your own pace. While the stones may make your walk to the water less graceful than you’d like, you’re still in control when compared to some other locations. The water will be refreshing and the seaview on a clear day is incredible. On your way back to Brighton, consider having a meal at Curry Leaf Cafe for a quick bite or Little Fish Market for fancy seafood.

Swim Level: Beginner

Public Transport:  Yes 

Facilities: Lifeguard  

We visit Margate regularly as a crew when the sun decides to show its face for long enough. The town has been through a regeneration-turned-gentrification sparked by the Turner Contemporary being built and new money hipsters trying to replicate what they saw happening across under-funded boroughs in London on the seaside. That’s brought many challenges for Margate's locals who either can’t get on the property ladder or simply don’t want to, rent is increasing and new homes aren’t being built. It means that for visitors like us, we get to see different communities working and living side by side…for now. Margate has two popular tidal pools. The first is just a few minutes walk from the train station and very much a part of the seaside fun that takes place on hot days, the pool is enclosed so as the tide retreats in the afternoon, there is still plenty of water nearby to get a few laps in. We prefer Walpole Bay pool, which is either a half hour walk from Margate station or a five minute drive. This pool has an all important beach entry and small beach area so tends to be much less busy than Margate’s pool. Expect refreshing water, kids crabbing and seasoned swimming vets all sharing the same space. We challenge you to spend a day there to see the pool appear and disappear as the tide comes in and out, there’s something beautiful about that natural process. Margate has a great food scene with plenty of variety, head to Sargasso for refreshing small plates, Angela’s for the best seafood you’ll ever eat, or their sister restaurant Dory’s for a more casual vibe but similar quality. 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport:  Yes 

Facilities: No 

We first visited Frensham Ponds in Farnham in 2021 as a part of us trying to find exciting places outside of London to Swim in and the ponds delivered on that many times over. Of all the places to swim for us, this one is filled with a sense of adventure as it's located in a green with huge trees and rich wildlife. Bring a packed lunch for the day and find a spot along the sand to make your home for the day. Frensham has very calm waters as it’s a lake and two designated swimming areas with a gradual increase in depth as you go further out. We think this is the perfect place to practise floating as it’s such a low pressure place to swim, you’ll most likely be surrounded by families enjoying the weather and water and definitely will not see any elite athletes swimming through the lake. When floating, the key is to remain calm, regulate your breathing and stretch your body out. As you head back to Farnham station, be sure to check out the Plough, it’s a lovely pub with live music most days and is run by a Black musician who also keeps chickens in the garden for delicious eggs. 

Swim Level: Beginner

Public Transport: No 

 Facilities: No 

Hampstead Heath is home to three swimming ponds, the Ladies, Mens and Mixed ponds are oases in hot summer days and fortresses of solitude in colder weather, with backdrops of comforting willow trees to sooth your inner self. We love to swim there knowing that you’re able to experience floating around on your back or swimming through slightly murky waters without having to leave the City, which is truly special. If Hampstead is too far north for you, consider coming with us down south to Beckenham Place Park for a dip. It’s one of the few ponds that has air filtration which helps to keep the water extra fresh too. You can even give paddle-boarding a try while there and head up to the grounds to see a movie at their outdoor cinema during the summer. 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport: Yes

 Facilities: Yes

Heated lidos are actually quite a luxury, while London holds a few of them, we won’t be focusing on them because we think there are so many benefits to having a relationship with cold water. The cold water brings a presence of thought and strengthens the connection between body and mind through the odd sensations you feel, it’s so hard to describe, that’s why you must try it for yourself! So don’t be afraid to go to south London's Brockwell Lido for a dip that will make you feel truly awake, followed by a munch at their amazing cafe. Or head to Tooting Bec Lido that will recreate swimming in the sea as the pool is nearly 100 metres long! Lastly, consider one of the most beautiful lidos in the UK, Parliament Hill Lido with it’s metallic basin (we thought this was done to heat the water up, but it was actually installed to reduce maintenance time as there are no tiles) which also boasts a cafe that has great falafel wraps and traditional breakfast scran. 

Swim Level: Beginner

Public Transport: Yes 

 Facilities: Yes 

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