Culture Loft has released its August issue, bringing together stories that celebrate the people, ideas, and experiences shaping Black culture today. The issue features Miko Branch on the cover, offering readers a closer look at her journey, perspective, and the legacy of Miss Jessie’s. Inside, readers will also find Dion Dawson, founder of Dion’s Chicago Dream, and Jay Rush Jennings, alongside editorial coverage of the Black Women’s Expo in Chicago. From entrepreneurship and

Black Women’s Expo 2026: A Celebration of Community, Conversation & Culture For more than 30 years, the Black Women’s Expo has created a space where entrepreneurship, culture, wellness, education, and community intersect. Founded by Merry Green, the expo has grown into one of the country’s most recognized celebrations of Black women, providing a platform where businesses, leaders, creators, and change-makers can connect and thrive. The 2026 Black Women’s Expo returned to Chic

Healthy feet are often overlooked, but at NailCandy1122, foot care is viewed as an essential part of overall wellness. Located in Perry Hall, Maryland, this Black woman-owned wellness nail studio specializes in waterless pedicures and medical-focused foot care, creating a safe, hygienic, and elevated experience for every client. Under the leadership of Certified Master Pedicurist and Certified Medical Pedicurist Tarsha Johns-Avent, NailCandy1122 serves clients of all ages, in

For many Black families, wellness didn’t begin with expensive supplements or luxury health stores. It started in our kitchens, gardens, and conversations in the family. Over time, the knowledge and just the concept of wellness became harder to access and understand. Wellness began to feel complicated and harder to access. Holmes Hydration is helping to change that. Based in Baltimore, Maryland, the Black-owned wellness brand creates small-batch herbal teas, infused honeys, in

The new year offers a fresh start and an opportunity to rethink how we support Black culture and businesses. Recent pullbacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives by many corporations have created setbacks for Black entrepreneurs and communities. These changes have made it harder for Black-owned businesses to thrive and for Black culture to receive the recognition and support it deserves. This moment calls for intentional actions that go beyond corporate prog

Founder, Aspiring Minds Wellness Center Kenatta Bethea is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), an accredited Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) provider, and founder of Aspiring Minds Wellness Center, an integrative psychiatric practice serving children, adolescents, and adults. With over 12 years of experience across residential and inpatient treatment, outpatient services, and community mental health programs, Kenatta brings a wealth

Wellness doesn’t have to feel complicated. That’s the philosophy guiding Coach Fannie , founder of Create Your World. She believes taking care of yourself should be enjoyable, accessible, and inspiring, not another item on your to-do list. Through her signature juices, supplements, workshops, and coaching programs, Coach Fannie helps people find simple, sustainable ways to eat better, move more, and nurture their minds and bodies. Her approach goes beyond diets or fitness fad

From the Southside of Chicago, Lynn Solar is redefining what it means to be a multifaceted creator. A musician, actress, and founder of Purple Crown Productions, she blends artistry and entrepreneurship to craft experiences that empower, inspire, and foster connection. Purple Crown Productions was born from a desire for freedom and impact. “I needed to have more control over my life instead of being at the mercy of systems and cultures that are unsafe and toxic,” Lynn shares.