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Minority Business Highlight: Harmonious Insight 

Harmonious Insight, a minority-owned business in Indianapolis, brings holistic wellness to the forefront with its unique approach to balance and self-care. 

Blending counseling, life coaching and wellness practices like yoga and aromatherapy, Harmonious Insight helps individuals and families achieve harmony in mind, body, and spirit. The business also offers thoughtfully crafted self-care products, fostering a sense of positivity and empowerment.  

woman, owner of Harmonious Insight business
Andrea Jenkins. (Photo via/Instagram)

Founded by Andrea Jenkins, a licensed clinical social worker, Harmonious Insight started through Jenkins’ journey to incorporate spiritual well-being into her wellness practices. Jenkins has completed education, training and certification in aromatherapy, yoga, sound healing, meditation and chakra healing.  

The company offers holistic life coaching, holistic health services, clinical supervision and consultations, and workshops and presentations.  

In addition to services, Jenkins also offers a wide variety of products for sale, including: 

  • Jewelry: chakra bracelets, earrings, pendants, waist beads and more. 
  • Bath and body: salts, moisturizers, hair care, skin care and more. 
  • Sage, incense and essential oils. 
  • Crystals and gemstones: earrings, pendants, yoni eggs and more. 
  • Insightful messages tees 
  • Teas 

The name Harmonious Insight, according to their website, represents their “intentions to encourage individuals to use their intuition to gain a deeper understanding of themselves which would guide them toward balance, inner peace and enlightenment.” 

One testimonial from Violet C. reads, “I have been ordering from Harmonious Insight for a couple of years now and I recommend the Body Butter Shea with Zen, the lip balm, Post-Workout Detox Salt Bath Soak, and the bracelets are of the best quality.” 

To shop Harmonious Insight and to inquire about their services, visit harmoniousinsight.com

Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here. 

Minority Business Highlight: P30

P30, a Black- and woman-owned coworking space and community center on the Far Eastside, first launched in May 2022.

The nonprofit coworking space was created to be a space that would “disrupt inequality, ignite hope and launch prosperity,” according to the website. As a coworking space, P30 acts as a platform and home for small local and minority owned businesses on the Far Eastside to grow and flourish. However, the space also doubles as a community hub, events venue, safe space for teens and an incubator for budding entrepreneurs.

P30 is also home to a Black-owned coffee shop, community garden, commercial kitchen, gym, podcasting studio and creative suite, conference rooms, outdoor events spaces, meditation and wellness room and a rotation urban art gallery.

Beyond offering small businesses a place to call home, P30 currently offers two unique community programs, Real Estate Boot Camp (REBC) and Launch BNB.

REBC is designed to close the information and experience gap for local women and minority real estate developers and provide the community with new, quality-built, affordable housing. The program is 12-18 months long, meeting once a month.

The Launch BNB program was designed to support P30’s entrepreneurship vision directly impacting the Far Eastside community. Outside of rotating business workshops and providing necessary resources for entrepreneurs, the program creates an ecosystem composed of business experts and community partners.

P30’s vision is to aid the launch of 300 small businesses, create 3000 employment opportunities and generate $30 million worth of wealth in the Far Eastside community.
P30 is located at 3039 N. Post Road. For more information about the space or community programs, visit p30indy.com. To get in contact, call 317-318-8304.

Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

New Skills Ready Network empowers leaders of tomorrow

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Hundreds of educators, students, employers and policymakers gathered for the New Skills Ready Network (NSRN) Fall Convening Nov. 19 in downtown Indianapolis, highlighting the many strides made to bridge gaps in postsecondary education and workforce readiness.   

Launched in 2020 with a $7 million investment by JPMorganChase across six cities, the initiative focuses on empowering underserved students through quality career pathways. 

“At JPMorganChase, we believe every young person deserves a pathway to economic success. However, we know that opportunity is often out of reach. This investment in high-quality career-focused education programs helps give Indianapolis students a real shot,” said Christina Moungey, Indiana & Ohio Region Manager for JPMorganChase Commercial Banking. “We are grateful for EmployIndy and the various local educational institutions for carrying out this work. Together, we can make a difference.”

Spearheaded by EmployIndy, the Indianapolis chapter showcased how innovative partnerships enhance student success and strengthen the region’s workforce.   

Kevin Lopez, a first-year business major at Indiana University Indianapolis, believes his interests led him to pursue higher education. 

“I wanted to do something with numbers once I got to college,” Lopez said. “Being around accounting and learning about the main parts of running a business attracted me to business.” 

Indianapolis’ unique labor force challenges underscored the importance of initiatives like NSRN. With only 67.5% of the working-age population participating in the labor force and a 14.1% poverty rate among working-age residents, these programs aim to address systemic issues. 

The city’s talent pipeline has historically struggled with retaining college graduates, ranking among the bottom ten cities in this metric. Through efforts like enhanced career advising and guaranteed seamless admissions agreements, NSRN is boosting enrollment and ensuring students are retained and complete their education, thus preparing them for higher-wage jobs.

(Photo/Getty Images)

Lopez said that programs like Career Pathways alleviate the overwhelming nature of the college application process. 

One standout program, the seamless admissions initiative launched in 2023, yielded extraordinary results. A collaboration between Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), IU Indianapolis and EmployIndy automatically admits IPS students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. 

This initiative has led to a 130% increase in IPS student admissions to IU Indianapolis, with enrollment numbers rising by 84%. 

Work-based learning has been another critical emphasis of the NSRN initiative. Students like Jhaniyah Litt, a social work major from Indianapolis, thrive in programs like the Modern Apprenticeship Program (MAP), which enables high school students to gain professional experience in high-demand fields. 

“Luckily, through the support of my supervisors and coworkers, they created a safe environment where I felt comfortable asking questions,” Litt said. “Now, I can better understand the projects I receive with a bit more peace.” 

One of the most striking achievements of NSRN is its ability to address gaps in work-based learning opportunities. By partnering with local employers, the initiative achieved a 600% increase in high-quality work-based learning (WBL) activities for IPS students, bridging the gap between education and real-world applications. Personalized career coaching was invaluable for Sandra Ramirez, a second-year Ivy Tech student and participant in the Indy Achieves program.

Ramirez, the first in her family to attend college, studies business while also being a licensed welder. 

“I knew the strength within myself and wanted to prove everyone wrong,” Ramirez said. “I now know what I am capable of.” 

With the right partnerships, empowerment and funding from programs like New Skills Ready Network, more future leaders can see the potential in themselves like Lopez, Litt and Ramirez. 


Contact multi-media & senior sports reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more news from the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

Minority Business Highlight: Sweetener

Sweetener, located in Indianapolis, is a Black-owned dessert shop founded and led by Kayla Howell.

Known for its innovative and mouth-watering treats, Sweetener quickly became a fan favorite. Howell’s passion for baking shines through in each creation.

“I have been baking since I was 13,” Howell told the Indiana Minority Business Magazine. “I decided to take it seriously and open Sweetener almost two years ago.”

Sweetener houses all the treats that come to mind when one thinks of dessert. Customers can indulge in cookies, cakes, pies, brownies and more.

Cookies from Sweetener.
Some of the available treats served at Sweeteners. (Photo provided/Kayla Howell)

Howell said she caters to parties, events and other large gatherings.

Pricing at Sweetener ranges between $10-25 depending on the treat and the quantity.

“I love baking and learning about the art of baking,” Howell said. “I love trying new things for Sweetener. It is really like my baby.”

Howell spoke about the importance of highlighting minority-owned businesses like Sweetener.

“Working multiple jobs and trying to go to school is difficult,” Howell said. “Advertising is expensive. It can be hard for small businesses to gain exposure. That is why platforms like the Indiana Minority Business Magazine are important.”

https://www.facebook.com/sweetenerstudioThose interested in ordering a box of delicious treats from Sweetener can do so here.


Contact multi-media & senior sports reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

Fairbanks Foundation grants $1 million for talent pipeline, high school apprenticeships

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Indiana youth will see more pathways to future careers thanks to grants from the Fairbanks Foundation.

The CEMETS iLab Indiana, a coalition of community leaders, released a strategic plan which included new training and education for aspiring professionals. With funds from the grants, high school students will be eligible for apprenticeships in a variety of fields.

The iLab’s strategic plan outlined four priorities, one of which was the creation of “talent associations.”

“Talent associations will select occupations, identify the required knowledge, skills, and competencies, and collaborate with educators to develop education and training content,” according to a statement released via email.

The first round of talent associations will focus on health care, life sciences and advanced manufacturing and logistics. The Fairbanks Foundation awarded two-year grants up to $250,000 to the following talent associations:

  • BioCrossroads: Healthcare talent association – $200,000
  • BioCrossroads: Life Sciences talent association – $200,000
  • Conexus Indiana: Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics talent association – $250,000

Up next is a talent association in the banking industry to be operated by Indiana Bankers Association.

“All industry association grants are contingent upon each organization’s ability to secure matching funds for the talent associations from employers within their industries,” according to the statement.

The goal is to begin welcoming students to the programming in the 2025-206 school year. For more information about the iLab strategic plan, visit ilabindianastrategicplan.org.

Scouting’s impact on Central Indiana’s youth celebrated at 29th Annual Governor’s Luncheon

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Indianapolis – The 29th Annual Governor’s Luncheon for Scouting will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium Wednesday, Dec. 18, where Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb and an esteemed panel of community leaders will gather to highlight the impact of Scouting on thousands of young men and women in Central Indiana.

As the Crossroads of America Council’s largest fundraising event, this luncheon draws over 2,000 business and civic leaders to generate critical support for Scouting programs that positively shape young lives, including hundreds of Black youth.

The luncheon will feature event co-chairs DuJuan McCoy, owner, president and CEO of Circle City Broadcasting (WISH-TV); Kathy Martin Harrison, owner and CEO of Ed Martin Automotive Group; Latha Ramchand, chancellor of IU Indianapolis; and Vop Osili, president of the Indianapolis City-County Council.

These leaders are passionate advocates for youth development and are instrumental in advancing opportunities for Scouts of diverse backgrounds throughout the region.

(Photo/BeyondTheFocus Photography)

Scouting has long been a powerful influence on Indianapolis’ Black community, fostering leadership and service through programs that emphasize character, community service and personal growth. This impact was recently highlighted in the celebration of Troop 199’s 75th anniversary. The troop, which has served Black youth in Indianapolis for generations, honored the achievements of three of its Eagle Scouts who led service projects to improve local community spaces.

Leander Nicholson beautified Oscar Charleston Park by filling in ruts near the shelter, reducing mosquito breeding grounds and refurbishing picnic tables, ensuring a welcoming environment for park visitors. Cameron Hairston transformed his school playground by installing coyote silhouettes to humanely deter geese, creating a cleaner, safer space for students to enjoy.

Nathaniel Wilks led a team to revitalize the shalomwoods trail and playground at Shalom Mennonite Church, adding benches, trash cans and informative tree tags for an educational nature experience.

Funds raised at the Governor’s Luncheon will continue to support Scouting initiatives in Central Indiana, benefiting over 16,000 youth and 450 Scouting units. Scouting provides an invaluable space for youth, especially Black youth, to develop skills, confidence and a sense of responsibility toward their communities.

For more information or to register for the event, please visit CrossroadsBSA.org/GovLunch.

For sponsorship opportunities, please email development@cacin.us.

Minority Business Highlight: Haley Rose Photography 

With an eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Haley Rose Photography has become a standout in Indianapolis, offering a unique perspective on life’s most cherished moments. 

haley lewis work
(Photos/Haley Rose Photography)

Owned and operated by Haley Rose Lewis, a proud minority entrepreneur, the business specializes in capturing authentic, vibrant and meaningful images. From weddings and family portraits to branding sessions, Haley Rose Photography celebrates diversity and individuality through every shot.  

Lewis offers holiday mini sessions, headshots, standard sessions, essential sessions and elite sessions for a wide array of events and needs. The holiday mini sessions are $100 and include a 30-minute session with three retouched images and an online gallery. For $50 more you can get an additional three retouched images. Other services like headshots are priced at $175 and can be used for business purposes. 

haley lewis work
(Photos/Haley Rose Photography)

From engagements to family portraits, the company’s style has been on book covers, magazine spreads and billboards across the city. Her work highlights the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses. Lewis’ work not only preserves memories but also uplifts the local community. 

Haley Rose Photography is based in Fishers and Indianapolis and personalizes each session to meet the needs of the client. Customers can inquire for a booking through the Haley Rose Photography website at haleyrosephotography.com or by emailing Lewis at hrlewis@haleyrosephotography.com

Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here. 

Minority Business Highlight: Rose of Sharon All Naturals

Owned and operated by East Chicago native Nycole Johnson, Rose of Sharon All Naturals is a health and wellness business dedicated to promoting a healthier lifestyle. 

Rose of Sharon All Naturals specializes in products made of sea moss, a super food that has been growing in popularity in the last few years. Sea moss, which is also often referred to as Irish moss, is known to provide 92 of the 102 minerals needed in one’s diet in one tablespoon per day and beneficial to boosting immunity, digestion and healthier skin and nails, according to the website.

Just like the name suggests, Rose of Sharon All Natural’s sea moss gels are all-natural — featuring only three ingredients — low calorie and do not include any added sugars. The gels are also flavored, including strawberry, peach, lime, green apple and pineapple but can be made unflavored if needed. 

In addition to sea moss gels, the shop also features a variety of sea moss-based teas, smoothies and drinks as well as mushroom-based skin products.

Rose of Sharon All Naturals operates as an e-commerce store but recently celebrated the grand opening of its storefront at 3140 N. Illinois St. under the name R102 Wellness. For more information about the shop, visit roseofsharonallnaturals.biz. To get in contact, call 317-970-5444 or email roseofsharonindy@gmail.com.

Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

Minority Business Highlight: Sweetie’s Candy Boutique and Emporium 

Sweetie’s Candy Boutique and Emporium is more than just a store; it is a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship and local culture. 

Sweetie’s is more than just a candy shop; it is a beloved family-owned business that became a local staple for sweets, gifts and one-of-a-kind finds.  

Owned and operated by Tiffany and her family, Sweetie’s is a true labor of love, combining Tiffany’s lifelong passion for candy with a commitment to quality and community.  

What sets Sweetie’s apart is its dedication to offering products that are not only delicious but also ethically produced and suitable for a variety of diets. With growing concerns about allergens and dietary preferences, Sweetie’s is committed to providing a wide selection of treats that cater to different needs, making it a welcoming space for everyone. 

Last month, Sweetie’s Candy Boutique and Emporium participated in the PitchFeast funding competition, ultimately coming in second place and taking home $10,000

Beyond candy, Sweetie’s Boutique and Emporium also offers a curated selection of gifts, home decor and unique finds — perfect for birthdays, special occasions or simply treating yourself. With a focus on supporting local artisans and small businesses, Sweetie’s has become a vibrant hub for the community, blending a passion for sweets with a love of local craftsmanship. 

Visit their website at sweetiescandyboutiqueindy.com

Contact multi-media & senior sports reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here. 

Minority Business Highlight: AiriLasha 

AiriLasha, a cruelty free and all-natural brand, is empowering individuals with its line of plant-based skincare.  

Focused on wellness and sustainability, AiriLasha blends beauty with self-care, offering high-quality solutions that inspire confidence and promote a healthy lifestyle. In their signature Purely Collection, customers can purchase soap bars, mists, elixirs, moisturizing milks and oils.  

The Purely Collection is free of glycol propylene, petroleum, toxins, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, fragrance and colorants. Made with natural fruits, vegetables, herbs, roots, clays, butters and oils, the products are vegan and cruelty free. The collection is kid-friendly and can be used as an aid for those with acne, eczema, lupus, PCOS and hyperpigmentation. 

One reviewer said, “I absolutely love this product (the Purely bar soap). I’ve been using it for about a week and I can already tell my dark marks are fading.” 

Built on a mission of creating products to reduce and eliminate common concerns, AiriLasha focuses on customer service for their online store.  

Founder Airicka Green always had a passion for the beauty industry. Following the birth of her son in 2018, she and her son suffered dry skin and hypopigmentation. From there, with trial and error, Green set out to create her own skin, body and hair products without any harmful chemicals. 

girl with cake an balloon
Founder Airicka Green. (Photo via/AiriLasha official website)

Customers can expect to see results in one to eight weeks. Consistency is key, according to the FAQ section of the website, which advises customers to continue to follow the routine with the products and eat healthier to see results. 

To learn more and to shop the store, visit airilashaco.com

Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here. 

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