Faith is not just a part of their identity — it’s what made them decide to take a risk and start a business.
By Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware
Word in Black
More and more, entrepreneurs are stepping into the business world, driven not just by a passion for their products and services but also by a deep sense of faith. These “faith-filled” business owners see their work as a means to serve their communities, live out their beliefs and build a legacy for their families.
This is especially true for women of color. According to the Minority Christian Women Entrepreneurs Network, they account for 47 percent of all women-owned businesses — around 5.8 million in total — employing over 2.2 million people and generating $386.6 billion in revenue.
What courage it must take to step out and start a business, the success of which you are solely responsible for. And of course, that’s where faith steps in. Word In Black talked to three women entrepreneurs whose faith is not just a part of their identity — it’s the driving force behind their decision to take a risk and start a business. And each business is more than a livelihood; it’s a platform to serve, inspire and make a lasting impact on their communities.
Brittany Veney, founder of B. Real Creative Studio
One such entrepreneur is Brittany Veney, founder of B. Real Creative Studio, a branding and website design agency based in Baltimore that serves clients nationwide. For more than five years, Veney has helped individuals and organizations craft purpose-driven brands through strategic design and marketing.
“We specialize in creating unique brand identities, user-friendly websites, and engaging marketing materials that resonate with audiences. Our mission is to transform ideas into strategic, actionable plans that elevate brands and foster genuine engagement,” Veney explains.
For Veney, faith is both a foundation and a compass, sustaining her, “by providing strength and resilience in the face of obstacles.” She says her faith encourages her “to trust the process and remain committed to my vision. I find solace in prayer and community support, which helps me navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. My faith also inspires me to give back to others, reinforcing my sense of purpose.”
Veney is set to launch “The Health Suite” this October, a new initiative within B. Real Creative Studio aimed at health-focused brands.
“I was driven by my extensive background in the healthcare field where I’ve spent over a decade working behind the scenes, so I possess a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that health-focused brands face,” Veney says.
She hopes to empower health professionals to effectively communicate their mission and make a meaningful impact in their communities.
Shannon Davis, owner of Shay’s Cakes
Another faith-driven entrepreneur, Shannon Davis of Shay’s Cakes in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, remembers the moment she felt called to start her business.
“I actually started after hearing a message from my pastor entitled ‘What’s in Your House?’” Davis recalls, relating it to a biblical story of a widow who multiplies her last bit of oil through faith.
“I often think about that message and the push from family and friends to continue baking,” she says.
Davis bakes signature Bundt cakes. From micro-minis to 10-inch confections, she offers a range of flavors like carrot, chocolate, lemon, sweet potato, red velvet, 7Up and pound cake. Although her business is local, she ships nationwide through online orders and is currently working on expanding her media presence to grow her brand further.
Kim Dukes, owner of K. Monique Salon and Vintage Boutique
The average lifespan of a small business is only 8.5 years, according to Nav, a financial platform for entrepreneurs, but some faith-based entrepreneurs defy the odds.
Kim Dukes, owner of K. Monique Salon and Vintage Boutique in Baltimore’s Mt. Vernon area, has run her salon for over 33 years. As a cosmetologist, she’s offered varied hair services, with a specialty of short cuts. But there’s more.
”I also sell handpicked clothing and my own unique and stylish pieces,” she says. “My husband and I have an urban clothing line that’s featured in the boutique as well.”
Dukes says she always knew she wanted to own a business, but didn’t know how to make it happen.
”I worked in several salons and learned the business. When it was my turn, I put feet to my faith and stepped out and did it.”
It was her faith that assured her she wouldn’t fail — and she didn’t.
”It literally was not an option. I believed I could and I did. And I still am. I’m always going to seek God and I believe that he’s a rewarder of those who seek him diligently.”
Beyond the salon, Dukes is a creative force — a singer and first-time author of a book called “Unmuted.”
“I’m a woman of faith and a creative,” Dukes declares. “With those two mixed together, I’m unstoppable.”
This article was originally published on WordinBlack.com.
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