Monday, June 23, 2025
Home Blog Page 18

Minority Business Highlight: Ambrosia Nutrition and Beauty 

Ambrosia Nutrition and Beauty is carving out a niche space in Indy with its unique blend of handcrafted soaps and wellness supplements.  

Dedicated to promoting holistic health from the inside out, the shop offers products that nourish both body and skin, becoming a local favorite for those who value natural self-care solutions. 

Founded by an all-female POC team, Ambrosia Nutrition and Beauty provides natural and organic products to support overall well-being. On their website, customers can take a quiz to find products that fit their needs. 

Homemade soaps tailored for relaxation or energy are available in many scents: almond coconut, cinnamon latte, cranberry spice, mango salsa scrub, silk jasmine, sandalwood rose, strong coffee, turmeric honey and orange, baby powder, orange patchouli, Egyptian musk, mountain air and more. 

Ambrosia also offers two supplements: Enhance and ReNew. 

The Enhance supplement is an alpha lipoic acid to produce energy, manage blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation. ReNew is a dehydroepiandrosterone supplement that can improve hormone regulation, cognitive function, energy levels, immune function, bone health and overall well-being. 

Those who wish to reorder products can receive up to 15% off on select products through a monthly subscription. 

To view a full list of products, visit ambrosianutritionandbeauty.com. To stay up to date on events, pop ups and markets, visit their Instagram @ambrosianutritionandbeauty. 

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: Sunflowers Bundles of Joy

Founded by Ebony Ligon in 2017, Sunflowers Bundles of Joy Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping single parents  provide for their children. 

Sunflowers Bundles of Joy focuses on creating a supportive community for single parents to access resources, guidance and encouragement, according to the website.  

Resources range from counseling services, financial assistance programs, employment and educational assistance and community events.

Programming is specialized for parents, youth and seniors to provide the best care and essentials to meet the needs of the community, such as providing car seats, cribs, clothing and pampers to mothers or hosting educational workshops and recreational activities for youth.

Sunflowers Bundles of Joy also hosts a variety of seasonal events including a Backpack Drive, Trunk or Treat and a turkey giveaway. They also accept baby donation drop-offs every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A list of requested items and guidelines can be found on the website.

For more information, visit sunflowersbundlesofjoy.org. To get in contact for assistance, donations or volunteer opportunities, email info@sunflowersbundlesofjoy.org or call 866-341-2057.

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

Harris selected as President of Basketball Operations for Detroit Pistons

Pistons hire new president of Business Operations

By NORAL PARHAM III

noralp@indyrecorder.com

The Detroit Pistons announce the appointment of Melanie Harris as the new president of Business Operations. In her role, Harris will spearhead the organization’s business initiatives, improve revenue generation and bolster connections with partners, sponsors, ticketholders and fans.

Harris comes to the Pistons from her recent position as vice president and general manager of Nike, Inc.’s Jordan Brand North America, where she led a cross-functional group in managing sales, merchandising, marketing, procedures and strategy for the multi-billion-dollar brand across North America.

Additionally, Harris was also a member of Nike’s Black Community Commitment Task Force.

Pistons owner Tom Gores expressed his enthusiasm to have Harris on board.

“Melanie’s deep brand experience will help grow the business and increase focus with Pistons fans,” Gores said in a statement. “Having spent time with Melanie, I can confidently say she is an experienced leader and innovative executive who will invigorate our business operations. Her fresh perspective on engaging our community of fans, both locally and nationally, is invaluable.”

Gores led the search for Harris, a feat not performed by many NBA owners.

Harris will report to Pistons Vice Chairman Arn Tellem.

“Melanie shares our core values of hard work and commitment to the community,” Tellem said in a statement. “She’s a collaborative leader who will support our current team while bringing fresh ideas.”

Harris is also joyed to have been selected for the role.

 “I am excited to work with Mr. Gores and the talented professionals at the Detroit Pistons to strive for excellence and build on the great tradition of this franchise,” Harris said in a statement. “Detroit is a fantastic sports town, and as the organization grows, there is a tremendous opportunity for building business momentum and engagement. I look forward to advancing the club’s success both on and off the floor.”


Contact multi-media & senior sports reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more news from the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, visit our homepage.

Belize Global Media Partners with Award-Winning Producer Shawn Landrum

0

Belize Global Media (BGM) has announced a partnership with internationally recognized screenwriter, film producer and composer Shawn Landrum.

This collaboration marks a major advancement in global media distribution, as BGM will be responsible for distributing Landrum’s curated content worldwide. In return, Landrum will lend his expertise to BGM’s digital showcase productions.

Shawn Landrum, based in Indiana, is well known in the entertainment industry for his award-winning work in film and television. In addition to his creative endeavors, Landrum is the founder of the nonprofit organization Hearts and Minds, which is dedicated to empowering young creatives.

As part of the new partnership, he will play a crucial role in BGM’s weekly television show, which airs nationwide in Belize.

Additionally, Landrum will contribute to the Belize International Film Festival and SeriesFest Industry panel in November 2024.

CEO of BGM Nigel Miguel believes the partnership can merge the gap.

“At BGM, we believe in the power of storytelling to bridge cultures and communities,” Miguel said in a statement. “Partnering with Shawn Landrum allows us to introduce new voices and showcase the rich cultural heritage of Belize to a broader audience. Together, we are committed to developing original content that reflects our diverse experiences and celebrates our shared humanity.”

Landrum expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting the opportunity to merge the cultural richness of Belize with the creative energies of Indiana. His goal is to create powerful narratives that inspire and connect people across different cultures.

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

Minority Business Highlight: DLT Family Counseling & Resources

DLT Family Counseling & Resources, founded by Dr. Dior Maliky Love, is a minority-owned business in Indianapolis committed to fostering the emotional, mental and spiritual well-being of individuals and families.

With a focus on serving underserved populations, the organization offers a wide range of services designed to meet the unique needs of its clients.

DLT provides mental health support through life coaching, mentoring and counseling, helping people navigate challenges such as anger management, substance abuse recovery and emotional trauma.

Additionally, they offer practical resources to assist those in crisis, including emergency housing, utility assistance and access to a free community pantry, which ensures that basic needs like food and shelter are met.

DLT community event
(Photo provided/DLT)

What sets DLT Family Counseling apart is its commitment to addressing the whole person. The organization believes in a holistic approach, integrating mental health care with spiritual support. Love’s mission is to provide personalized, compassionate care that helps clients regain control over their lives and find the strength to succeed.

Beyond individual services, DLT is deeply engaged with the broader community. They collaborate with local businesses, government agencies and nonprofits to increase their reach and ensure their clients have access to a network of supportive services. By building these partnerships, DLT Family Counseling & Resources aims to uplift the entire community, particularly marginalized groups, and contribute to a healthier, more resilient Indianapolis.

For more details about their programs or to access support, visit dltfamilycrc.org


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

BioCrossroads announces changes in board, executive committee

BioCrossroads, an initiative dedicated to advancing Indiana’s life sciences sector, announced significant updates to its Board of Directors, reflecting the organization’s long-term strategy to foster innovation and growth.

The latest appointments include seven new board members and significant promotions to its Executive Committee. These align with BioCrossroads’ 10-year plan released in January 2024, which emphasizes research, manufacturing ecosystems and workforce development.

President and CEO of Langham Logistics Cathy Langham and president and CEO of the Indiana Bioscience Research Institute Dr. Alan Palkowitz have been promoted to the Executive Committee.

Both bring extensive experience in entrepreneurship and life sciences. Langham, a board member since 2023 and a well-known figure in Indiana’s business community, and Palkowitz, with over three decades of expertise in drug discovery, are expected to play critical roles in guiding BioCrossroads’ strategic initiatives.

Board chair and VP of Industry and Government Affairs at Cook Medical Dan Peterson believes the additions are well warranted.

“These leadership changes reflect our commitment to fostering growth and innovation … and solidifying Indiana’s position as a global life sciences leader,” Peterson said in a statement.

Additionally, the board welcomes new members from various sectors. Key appointments include Ryan Baehl of Labcorp, Dr. Matt Connell of Ivy Tech and Dr. Daniel Golden of Elanco Animal Health. Each new member brings unique expertise to advance BioCrossroads’ goals in research, innovation, and workforce development.

BioCrossroads president and CEO Vince Wong emphasized the importance of these additions.

“Each new board member brings expertise that complements our strategic goals … driving economic growth and maximizing Indiana’s enormous potential to make a positive impact on human health,” Wong said in a statement.


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

Local organization supports diverse professionals, students in tech fields

0

By SPECIAL TO THE RECORDER

The Black Data Processing Associates (BDPA) hosted a mixer to connect professionals in tech and business in late August in Indianapolis.  

The event kicked off with a presentation from BDPA Indy President Jamil Shabazz, who shared the history and mission of the organization. Founded in 1975, BDPA is a national organization dedicated to supporting and developing diverse professionals in STEM and IT fields.  

In addition, the Indianapolis chapter plays a significant role in the local community, providing educational opportunities that help young people gain access to STEM professions. 

During the evening, Shabazz highlighted key programs and partnerships that BDPA uses to achieve its mission, emphasizing the organization’s ambitious goal of moving young people “from the classroom to the boardroom.”  

BDPA’s vision extends beyond encouraging students to pursue STEM; it aims to ensure that students have access to leadership positions within STEM-based corporations. 

The event featured presentations from several members of the BDPA leadership team and the community. Rupal Thanawala discussed the impactful work of BDPA Indy, while Patrick Jones shared his strategies for guiding students of color toward advanced problem-solving in mathematics. Johnny Sneh from Prolific provided insights into adopting effective artificial intelligence systems, and Stephen Jeffers showcased real-world applications of augmented reality through a live demonstration using the Apple Vision Pro headset. 

The mixer connected tech professionals and enthusiasts through networking, discussing their career goals and developing collaborations. The evening reflected BDPA’s commitment to being a “premier leader in STEM” that drives thought leadership within the diverse community it serves. 

For more information on the Black Data Processing Associates, visit bdpa.org.  

New firm launches to provide guidance and culturally competent tools

Impacto Strategies, a firm grounded in DEI consulting and strategic planning, is officially open for business.

Founder and CEO Doneisha Posey thinks the time for such a firm is now.

“We believe that fostering equitable environments is not just an aspiration — it’s a responsibility,” Posey said in a statement. “Our approach ensures that underrepresented voices are heard and valued in every space we serve.”

Posey has established a successful career as a civil rights attorney, professor and a leader in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). They are passionate about increasing representation and creating opportunities for historically underrepresented communities.

Having garnered experience in corporate, higher education and the public sector, Posey has a goal of fostering a more inclusive society.

Impacto Strategies offers strategic planning, facilitation services, translation and interpretation services and DEI advisory services.


Contact multi-media & senior sports reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more news, visit our homepage.

Minority Business Highlight: Tutus by TT 

Tutus by TT is pirouetting its way into the heart of Indianapolis.  

Founded by a passionate entrepreneur with a flair for turning everyday moments into magical experiences, this minority-owned business is transforming the tutu from a simple ballet staple into a dazzling fashion statement for all ages.  

Tanesha “TT” Triplett founded the business in May of 2017, originating from an idea to make fun tutus for young girls. Triplett quickly realized that something as simple as a tutu could make a young girl feel like a princess. By December of 2017, the company expanded to add custom t-shirts and other items. 

Tutus by TT offers a wide array of products from lip gloss to coloring books. The destination for birthday party favors, shoppers can order customized fruit snacks, Capri Suns, Ring Pops, Pringle snacks, chip bags, Hershey bars and Rice Krispie Treats. 

Aside from snacks, patrons can also purchase customized hand sanitizers, cups, water bottles, plates and shirts to complete your party. Customized party favor packages are also available for bundling. 

The signature tutus come in a variety of customizable colors, sizes and styles. Denim skirt sets, custom converse and tutu anklets can complete the look for any aspiring princess. 

To browse the available products, learn more about the company’s policies and submit a quote request for a customized item, visit tutusbytt.com

Minority Business Highlight: Bella Body & Skin Studio  – Indiana Minority Business Magazine

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. 

Gip Got Tips: A BBQ favorite in Indy

Nestled in the heart of Indianapolis’ east side, Gip Got Tips is transforming the local BBQ scene with its mouthwatering offerings and community-focused ethos.

Located at 2073 North Emerson Ave., this Black-owned business is helmed by Dyawne Gibson, affectionately known as the “Head Smoker.” Gibson’s passion for BBQ, combined with his dedication to quality and authenticity, has made his spot a must-visit.

Gip Got Tips stands out not only for its food but also for its commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all. Gibson, who brings years of experience and a personal touch to every dish, ensures that each meal is crafted with care. From the tender, slow-smoked ribs to the perfectly seasoned pulled pork, every item on the menu reflects Gibson’s dedication to excellence.

Gip Got Tips focuses on using locally sourced ingredients, which enhances the freshness and flavor of their BBQ. The restaurant prides itself on its unique rubs and sauces, developed through Gibson’s meticulous process of perfecting flavors.

Beyond serving up incredible BBQ, Gip Got Tips plays an integral role in the community.

The business frequently engages in local events and collaborates with other minority-owned enterprises, fostering a supportive network within the Indianapolis area. The company’s commitment to community outreach allows people like Gibson to provide mentorship and opportunities to other aspiring entrepreneurs, further enriching the local business landscape.

Whether you’re a long-time BBQ aficionado or someone new to the scene, Gibson and his team offer a dining experience that is both satisfying and deeply rooted in community values.

For those looking to explore a new culinary delight while supporting a thriving minority-owned business, Gip Got Tips should be at the top of your list. Visit their website at gipgottips.com.


Contact multi-media & senior sports reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

Translate »
Skip to content