Ajani Sportswear is an Indianapolis-based Black-owned brand founded by Bryson Davis-Johnson.
Ajani Sportswear is designed to be an all purpose sportswear brand, dedicated to outfitting Hoosiers for a health, wellness and success-centered lifestyle.
Davis-Johnson, who works as an educator by day, said the name of the brand translates to “he or she who wins the struggle,” and Ajani symbolizes people who emerge victorious. Ajani Sportswear aspires to be “the official uniform of winners,” according to the website.
Ajani Sportswear specializes in both men’s and women’s fitness attire, including hoodies, joggers, bodysuits and gym bags as well as season drops like the Ajani Emerge set and Shake Out set, which is made with Ajani Elite Fabric inspired by marathoners.
Davis-Johnson also uses the brand to build community, having partnered with The Hot Room to host donation-based yoga classes, and is an active participant in community wellness events, such as the Professional’s Day of Wellness.
Paradigm by Ajani is a subscription-based service Davis-Johnson created to assist working professionals and entrepreneurs find balance between their working lives and fitness journey. Paradigm by Ajani offers subscribers exclusive discounts at gyms, wellness centers, smoothie shops and co-working spaces.
For more information about Ajani Sportswear or to shop, visit ajanisportswear.com. To get in contact, email ajanisportswear@gmail.com or call 217-550-3662.
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.
The recent discussions and outpouring of support for Martin University has been nothing short of overwhelming — and it demonstrates how vital Martin University is to our community and our state.
With former Gov. Eric Holcomb’s support and advocacy, we were fortunate to be allocated $5 million in grant funding from the Indiana Commission for Higher Education (ICHE) in the state’s last biennium budget, funding that allowed us to soar. This was a pivotal moment for Martin University and the state of Indiana, as it marked the first time in our history that Indiana’s only Predominantly Black Institution of Higher Education (PBI) was allocated public funding from the State.
Accordingly, we worked hard and exceeded every objective set before us. We saw record new student enrollment numbers, launched new technology-focused programs in line with Indiana’s STEM workforce needs, and strengthened our Teacher Preparation programs for Early Childhood and Elementary education.
We proved that when resources are invested in Martin University, they translate into tangible outcomes.
However, we also knew this funding was not meant to sustain us long-term, but rather to ignite new growth. It was meant to fuel our efforts to prepare talent and help meet the workforce demands of our state. Although we did not formally make a request for additional grant funding in the upcoming biennium budget, we hoped that the success of our programs and the results we delivered might open doors for further consideration and investment. We thought there would at the very least, be an opportunity to have a conversation.
Thanks to the leadership and relentless advocacy of some of our fearless elected officials and community leaders, there is a possibility that conversations may now take place. At this point, we don’t know what may come of them, but we are forever grateful for the support we have received thus far.
What we do know for certain, and what this moment has demonstrated is that now is the time for us to come together like never before.
What has always sustained institutions like Martin and the communities that we serve are our collective and intentional actions that fuel our progress, defend our purpose, and ignite our excellence. While the expressions of support we continue to receive each day are heartening, they must be more than words. Now is the time to turn that support into action.
We are uniquely positioned to continue shaping the future of our students, our workforce, and our state. Martin has always been a catalyst for change, especially through our commitment to work-based learning, ensuring our graduates are equipped with the skills employers need. With over 95% of Martin alumni remaining in Indiana to contribute to our city and state’s economic vitality, the impact of our institution is undeniable.
Today, I respectfully issue a call to action and humbly ask for your commitment and support. Our city had a vibrant network of community anchor institutions that continuously navigate challenges to remain viable. Our continued success depends on active engagement from those who are invested in our missions. I ask that you take this chance to truly understand the challenges and opportunities that you can and will help them overcome with meaningful and impactful action.
The answer for Martin University is simple.
Like most small private institutions of higher education, especially HBCUs and PBIs, Martin University needs more students and more investment partners to confidently secure our future. Martin serves roughly 200 students per year, but that number needs to grow significantly for our institution to remain sustainable and continue the excellent work we are doing.
We need the community — local businesses, alumni, philanthropists and local leaders — to rally together and help us reach our full potential. A growing enrollment translates into more resources, more opportunities for our students and more value for Indiana’s workforce.
Martin University is an essential institution, one that shapes lives, builds futures and drives economic development. But it cannot do this alone. Now is the time for action. Together, we can ensure that Martin remains a vital force in the future of Indiana.
Let’s make this moment count.
Dr. Sean L. Huddleston is the president and CEO of Martin University.
TidalWave Productions, an independent comic book publisher, built a reputation for celebrating diversity and highlighting the achievements of influential Black figures through unique storytelling approach.
Founded to deliver engaging and educational content, TidalWave has dedicated over a decade to producing comics that showcase the stories of underrepresented communities. As a minority business, the company has continuously leveraged its platform to celebrate Black leaders in music, sports, and entertainment. This year’s lineup features biographies of cultural icons such as Beyoncé, Halle Berry, Dr. Dre, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Mike Tyson and Muhammad Ali.
TidalWave’s latest Black History Month releases provide readers with both single-issue biographies and comprehensive graphic novels, permitting fans to engage with the stories of Black trailblazers in various formats.
As one of the leading independent publishers in the industry, TidalWave stands out not only for its innovative storytelling but also for its commitment to diversity. The company established itself as a platform for sharing the stories of Black excellence and perseverance, ensuring that these narratives reach a broad audience.
TidalWave’s publications are available in both print and digital formats across platforms such as Kindle, the Apple Store, ComiXology, Google Play and Nook.
By merging art with history, TidalWave Comics serves as an essential voice in the comic book industry — one that amplifies the narratives of Black leaders and ensures their legacies endure for generations to come.
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on TikTok @3Noral. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here
The Office of Minority and Women Business Development (OMWBD) recognized City Wide Paving, a minority-owned business, as the Certified Vendor of the Month for February 2025.
City Wide Paving was created in 1988 and purchased by Fyzal Ohab in 1997. Inspired by his guiding principle of “going the extra mile,” City Wide Paving has provided customers with attention to detail and excellent service.
City Wide Paving’s services include asphalt paving and resurfacing, concrete sidewalks and driveways, seal coats and winter treatment services for snow and ice.
“The Office of Minority and Women Business Development’s XBE program has provided invaluable opportunities for companies like ours, enabling us to participate in major projects and contribute to the growth of the Indianapolis infrastructure,” Ohab said. “We are deeply grateful for the support and resources this program has provided and for the continued success it has helped us achieve.”
City Wide Paving accepts the February 2025 Certified Vendor of the Month Award. (Photo/Office of Minority and Women Business Development)
The business also works closely with several philanthropic and community-based organizations to support public health initiatives. They also support Hear Indiana, Wheeler Mission and several schools to promote positive social determinants of health in the community.
“City Wide Paving’s dedication to uplifting our community through their professional and philanthropic services is a shining example of how individual businesses can help promote our office’s mission of fostering a climate of equity and opportunity for all in the City of Indianapolis”, said David Fredricks, OMWBD director.
Just Add a Bow by Shervon is a custom wood craft and wreath business founded by Shervon and Luis Alvarez in 2020. Their passion for creativity and attention to detail has led them to create unique, handcrafted items that bring joy and lasting memories.
Operating from their home, the Alvarez’s blend their full-time careers with their dedication to craftsmanship. The couple works together to produce personalized, quality products, each one made with love and care to ensure customer satisfaction.
Just Add a Bow offers a wide array of custom wreaths, signage and care accessories. (Photo via/Just Add a Bow website)
Just Add a Bow offers a wide variety of custom wreaths for an occasion, ranging from fall-themed to luxury holiday wreaths. Customizable wreaths are available to add family names or specific messages you want to be displayed on your front door.
Other wreaths include:
Sharon’s Choice Luxe Deluxe
Valentine’s Day Luxe Wreath
A Pretty Christmas
Boo-ti-ful Wreath
Hello Pumpkin
God Bless You Wreath
God is Love Wreath
Prices range from $130 for smaller arrangements to $580 for deluxe wreaths. Each wreath has an array of flowers, greenery, decorations and bows to match the theme.
Just Add a Bow offers a wide array of custom wreaths, signage and care accessories. (Photo via/Just Add a Bow website)
Just Add a Bow also offers custom and pre-designed welcome signs to stand against the front door and wooden charms to hang on your car mirror.
In addition to custom products, Just Add a Bow offers the Bow Babes Academy, a continuous learning academy to make your own custom signage and wreaths. Members also receive a list of favorite supply stores, 20% off all wreath-making supplies and access to a weekly Q&A.
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.
Described as a “swanky paradise & intimate floral oasis,” Arden Indy is a destination cafe and lounge for girls’ nights, date nights, birthdays and weekend celebrations in the heart of downtown Indianapolis.
Guests are invited to choose an experience from the section of themed evenings, which are listed on the website — such as Valentine’s Day Cupid Night, Mimosas and Melodies Brunch, Saturday Birthday Soiree, Friday Jazz Night, Sip and Chill Thursdays and more.
Arden Indy boasts an experience-based dining experience every night of the week, with a cafe, brunch, lounge and cocktail menu all featuring pastries, appetizers, entrees and handcrafted coffee, tea, boba, cocktails and mocktails.
While the cafe does welcome walk-ins Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., reservations are required for evening and weekend dining.
Arden Indy is located downtown at 6 W. Washington St. The cafe is open to all ages from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the lounge is open to guests 21 years and older from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m.
For more information or to book a reservation, visit ardenindy.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.
The Indiana Fever added a seasoned professional to their front office, announcing the hiring of Jackie Maynard as the associate vice president of basketball communications on Jan. 30.
The newly created role places Maynard at the vanguard of the Fever’s media and public relations efforts as the franchise continues to expand its influence in women’s basketball.
Maynard, a New York native, brings 14 years of experience in sports communications, including 12 seasons working in professional women’s sports. She reports directly to Fever’s Chief Operating Officer and General Manager, Amber Cox. Maynard oversees all aspects of the team’s basketball communications strategy as the primary media contact.
“I am incredibly excited to join the Indiana Fever,” Maynard said in a statement. “From my first conversation to the last, it was clear that everyone, at every level, is invested in setting the standard for fans, players and the community.”
Maynard began her career in women’s sports with the Western New York Flash in 2013, managing media relations for some of the biggest names in soccer, including six-time FIFA World Player of the Year Marta, U.S. Women’s National Team legends Alex Morgan, Abby Wambach and Carli Lloyd.
Maynard’s career includes an extensive tenure in professional soccer. She spent nine seasons with Orlando City SC of Major League Soccer and the Orlando Pride of the National Women’s Soccer League, leading the club’s communications team.
Under Maynard’s leadership, Orlando’s media presence expanded significantly, experiencing a 121% uptick in global media coverage during a historic 2023 season. That effort earned her team the inaugural NWSL Communications Team of the Year award.
Beyond media strategy, Maynard involves herself in large-scale event planning, including opening two training facilities and launching Inter&Co Stadium. Her expertise contributed to successfully executing major sporting events such as the 2019 MLS All-Star Game, multiple FIFA World Cup qualifiers, and planning for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
“I look forward to joining a franchise that has been committed to the growth of women’s basketball for over two decades, and I’m ready to do all I can to help the Indiana Fever become the preeminent women’s sports franchise in the world,” Maynard said.
The move comes one day after the re-signing of Fever guard Kelsey Mitchell, another win for the organization.
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on TikTok @3Noral.
In a significant policy shift, Target Corporation announced the conclusion of several of its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) policies.
This move raised concerns about the potential impact on marginalized communities, particularly Black and brown populations, and reflects a more comprehensive trend among major U.S. corporations.
On Jan. 24, Target announced the conclusion of its three-year DEI plan, including the Racial Equity Action and Change (REACH) initiative.
The company plans to cease participation in external diversity-centric questionnaires and transition its “Supplier Diversity” team to “Supplier Engagement,” per the company’s website.
Former Target frequenter La’Meshia Hayes, Indianapolis, said the move caused a fracture in the community.
“Target’s decision to repeal their initiatives surrounding diversity has put us in a tough spot,” Hayes told the Indianapolis Recorder. “We are torn because we want to support the small Black-owned businesses that have products on their shelves. We are unsure if those products will be around much longer.”Target has long been recognized for its commitment to DEI. In 2020, following the murder of George Floyd near its Minneapolis headquarters, the company pledged investments over $2 billion with Black-owned businesses by the end of 2025.
This commitment included increasing the representation of Black employees by 20% and enhancing support for Black-owned suppliers.
Hayes is a member of the “Black Girls Who Love Target” Facebook group, a community of over 101,000 members, mostly women of color. They use thr group to discuss their love, fascination and frustration with the company.
“When other companies announced their removal of DEI programs, we were talking in the group like ‘Target would never,’ and now, ironically, they have,” Hayes said. “The group is so torn right now.”
La’Meshia Hayes, owner of A Good Life Photo Co., is ready to capture all of your moments and memories. (Photo/Hayes)
Target’s decision aligns with a broader corporate trend influenced by recent political actions. President Donald Trump’s executive order titled “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity,” signed on Jan. 21, directs federal agencies to end DEI programs and prompts private companies to follow suit.
The termination of DEI initiatives by Target and other corporations generates noteworthy implications for marginalized communities. These programs are instrumental in promoting workplace diversity and providing opportunities for minority-owned businesses. The discontinuation of such initiatives may hinder progress toward equitable representation and economic inclusion.
The response from the community is mixed. Some Black-owned brands expressed concern that boycotting Target could inadvertently harm their businesses, which rely on the retailer for distribution and visibility.
“We don’t know what we should do,” Hayes told the Indianapolis Recorder.
Target’s decision to scale back its DEI initiatives marks a pivotal moment with far-reaching implications for Black and brown communities and businesses.
“We remain focused on driving our business by creating a sense of belonging for our team, guests and communities through a commitment to inclusion,” Target said in a statement. “Belonging for all is an essential part of our team and culture, helping fuel consumer relevance and business results.”
Now, Hayes is unsure of the company’s commitment to DEI.
“I am going to take my time because I want to make an informed decision about where I spend my dollars, my Black dollars,” Hayes said.
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on TikTok @3Noral. For more news, click here.
For many women, the journey to strength, both physically and mentally, can feel daunting.
But for Porsha Ingram, founder of She Strong Fitness, the key to unlocking confidence lies in the power of strength training and mindset coaching.
Based in Indianapolis, She Strong Fitness is a Black-owned, woman-owned business designed to help women step into their power, break barriers and redefine what strength looks and feels like.
As a NASM-certified coach and ‘Kettlebella’ instructor, Ingram brings a unique approach to fitness, going beyond the numbers on a scale or the weights on a bench.
She Strong Fitness builds itself on the belief that true strength comes from within and that every woman can tap into her potential with the right direction and support.
The business specializes in strength training programs that help women build muscle and develop resilience. From kettlebell training to functional strength regiments, Ingram tailors workouts to fit all levels, ensuring every client can confidently train and progress safely.
But the She Strong experience isn’t only about lifting weights. It’s about transforming mindsets. Ingram integrates mindset coaching into her training philosophy, helping women break free from self-doubt, set intentional goals and develop the mental toughness needed to thrive in and outside the gym.
What sets She Strong Fitness apart is its emphasis on community. Ingram fosters a space where women feel supported, encouraged and empowered to challenge themselves. Whether a client is new to strength training or looking to refine her skills, She Strong Fitness provides a welcoming and motivating environment.
Through workshops, one-on-one coaching and group training sessions, She Strong Fitness is not only building strong bodies, but also strong women.
For more information on training programs and coaching opportunities, follow She Strong Fitness 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 in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.
Black Leadership and Legacies, Inc., DBA Building Leaders + Legacies (BLL), announced the induction of 18 women into the Professional Women Leaders Leadership Program.
This follows the announcement by the Women’s Fund of Central Indiana of 19 new members in the Executive Women of Color Leadership Program, established in partnership with BLL.
Both programs are designed and led by Carolene Mays, founder and CEO of Black Leadership and Legacies, Inc., with a mission to create a more equitable pipeline for leaders in Indianapolis. The programs prepare and empower minority professionals for expanded leadership roles to create meaningful impact within their communities.
Participants spend a year growing, developing and focusing on leadership skills, board governance, legacy wealth-building and purpose. The programs address issues impacting disadvantages and underserved communities and emphasize a philanthropic vision. The BLL programs allow participants access to C-Suite executives, government leaders and entrepreneurs for networking, access to knowledge and inspiring words of advice.
(Photo/Getty Images)
The 2025 cohorts represent a group of changemakers making significant contributions across the business, education, health care and social justice sectors of the city. Since the program began in 2022, 96% of participants have achieved major job promotions or entrepreneurial growth, and 87% have joined nonprofit boards.
“We are thrilled to welcome these dynamic and talented women into our leadership programs,” Mays said. “These women emerge equipped to transform organizations, uplift communities, and create lasting change. They are a testament to the power of investing in leadership with purpose, and we are honored to support them in shaping a more equitable future for generations.”
The Professional Women Leaders Leadership Program participants include:
April Aldridge, paralegal, Krieg DeVault, LLP.
Jamalia L. Brashears, principal and founder, JLB Advisors, LLC.
Ashley Bridges, build fund portfolio manager, Intend Indiana.
Tracy Clark, director of supportive services, Coburn Place Safe Haven.
Yunika T. Jackson, child services engagement specialist, State of Indiana Department of Child Services.
Brianna Jones, group service coordinator, Pacers Sports & Entertainment.
Genevie Jones, executive director and chief of staff, Indiana University Health.
Timeshia Keys, director of administration, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Indiana, Inc.
Jennifer Killebrew, DEI manager, Capital Improvement Board.
Susan Lawhead, executive director of talent pipelines, Indiana University Health.
Brandi M. London, co-founder and chief education officer, Hardon Education, LLC.
Shannon Kay Meriwether, HR and talent acquisition manager, Milliman MedInsight.
Jan E. Mitchell, founder and CEO, She Moves Forward, Inc.
Ashley Norman, senior internal communications manager, Genesys, founder and CEO, Mind Your Higher Ground.
Arnetta Scruggs, founder and executive director, The Bloom Project, Inc.
Jay Styles, senior vice president of partnerships and talent connections, EmployIndy.
Jordan Teske-Harrison, director, Indiana Commission for Women.
Shawnita Washington, client success manager, Four Tower, LLC, co-founder and CFO, Dodson Legacy.
