cocoa conversations — skindeep

One of the largest conundrums of 2017 is that fact that black women are the fastest growing group of entrepreneurs in America and yet they get the least amount of funding. According to a Fortune article, written just a few months ago in June of 2016, “The number of businesses owned by African American women grew 322% since 1997, making black females the fastest growing group of entrepreneurs in the U.S.” However, this inspiring statistic for black women across the country is harshly juxtaposed against the cutthroat reality of the start-up world. As reported in TechCrunch, “In “The Real Unicorns of Tech: Black Founders Women,” a recent report by #ProjectDiane, you’ll come across several startling statistics, for example, of all venture deals from 2012 to 2014, only 0.2% (24 of 10,238 deals) went to went to black female founders.”

cocoa conversationsOfunne AmakaMarch 7, 2017Comment

Cocoa Conversations with: Ashley Rudder

You know when you can just feel someone’s vibe when you walk in a room? That’s how it is with MAC Senior Artist, Ashley Rudder. Her bubbly personality and positive spirit was an oasis of calm in the chaos commonly referred to as New York Fashion Week. The traditional all black MUA uniform was characterized by her stylish turban and perfect winged liner.

cocoa conversations, makeup inspoOfunne AmakaSeptember 18, 2016Comment

Cocoa Conversations with: Charizma

While in line at Joe’s Coffee Shop on 121st and Broadway, I noticed a beautiful black woman with pretty wispy lashes and a highlight fit for the gawds, walk up the stairs and into the coffee shop. “Charizma?!” I yelled out. I could instantly tell she was an amazing MUA. She quickly met me in line and we grabbed iced coffees to cool off from the sticky NYC summer sun.