It’s been an emotional week for many as the Nation watches, listens, learns and speaks on the events unravelling in the US around police brutality and the Black Lives Matter Movement. Here in Ottawa, solidarity, support and pain is echoed as well, and many look to help and support in whatever way they can.
Dominique Baker is an Ottawa-based blogger, skincare and hair expert with a large following on her instagram. This week, she’s used her platform to share her own experience as a black woman growing up in Ottawa, and encourages her followers to continue to support the black community in our city.
“I’m glad the conversations are thriving. I’m angry that it took so long.”
Dominique shares some of Ottawa’s local and black-owned businesses that she encourages others to support during this time of awareness and solidarity.
The Thirsty Maiden
https://www.instagram.com/p/CA5esRyFNqz/
The Thirsty Maiden is a newly opened Cafe in Kanata/Stittsville that serves Brown Bag Coffee Roasters’ single origin coffee products and locally sourced delicious treats. It’s a modern, relaxed cafe with lounge-like seating and wifi, perfect for meeting with friends or spending an afternoon working, with lunch mixed in. The cafe – which is fully licensed – doesn’t offer dine-in for the time being amid COVID-19 restrictions, but is available for takeout. They also have offer a catering menu.
Jogo Juice by Faye Beverage
https://www.instagram.com/p/BzgBbKGlHN4/
Faye Beverage produces vegan, plant-based drinks made from hibiscus flowers and superfoods. Their mission is to introduce Canadians and Ottawans to the benefits of hibiscus/bissap juice, a powerful antioxidant with a long list of benefits for the body. JOGO Juice is available at Rainbow Foods on Richmond Road, and on their website, sold in either a pack or box.
Stomping Ground
https://www.instagram.com/p/B_2jVijJmnc/
Stomping Ground is a clothing store that has redefined the shopping experience. Their modern and stylish streetwear boutique offers is a super trendy location, complete with an espresso bar. They re-opened for shopping just a few weeks ago. You can find out more information on their store here, and can shop online via their website.
Kania
https://www.instagram.com/p/B-doCBHpky-/
Kania is a brand of luxury Canadian sweaters designed in Ottawa. The sports-luxe line blends comfort and fashion and is made to last a lifetime. The word KANIA is derived from the Twi language from the Ashanti tribe in Ghana West Africa and means ‘Light’. Kania has a studio boutique on York Street, and the full line is available online.
Shifter Magazine
https://www.instagram.com/p/CA-jhsxl_Jf/
Shifter Magazine is a Canadian hip-hop magazine that highlights music, lifestyle and culture. Kevin Bourne, Shifter’s founder, is a journalist and entrepreneur who now lives in Ottawa.
KROWD Magazine
https://www.instagram.com/p/CBBi_7AlQw_/
Another great Toronto/Ottawa magazine that focuses on black culture, art, entertainment and fashion is KROWD Magazine. Founded in 2013, the Magazine is currently promoting a line of graphic t-shirts and hats in support of the George Floyd Fund.
Anthonia Makeup
https://www.instagram.com/p/CA–Bd5gVFG/
Anthonia is a mobile makeup artist who specializes in weddings and events. She also offers makeup lessons. Her commercial clients have included BellMedia and CTV, The Office of the Auditor General of Canada, and Yves Saint Laurent Beauty.
Syn Sue Salon
https://www.instagram.com/p/BtYzKHiF4iE/
Syn Sue is a hair salon and boutique on Metcalfe street owned by Suzette Haywood. The salon offers hair, esthetician and salon services, and her team includes a certified cosmetologist, hair dresses, nail technician and makeup artist.
We Are Kings
https://www.instagram.com/p/BkSeEfYnJ_6/
WRK is an award-winning, sustainable line of suits made with African inspired prints created by King B. Hector Jr. The line promotes ethical production and fair trade practises. All of the fabrics they use to create these vibrant suits are sourced from Africa, handcrafted with its own story and meaning.
