TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – This Black History Month 13 Action News honors trailblazing leaders in Toledo. Including highlighting exceptional Black-owned businesses making a difference in their communities.
Whether it’s food for your soul, a sweet treat or self-care, there’s plenty to do, see, eat and experience this Black History Month in Toledo.
History shows us Black business ownership is something that’s hard-won.
“The community as a whole has been good to Heavenly Sweet,” Jera Stewart, owner of Jera’s Heavenly Sweet said.
In the Glass City, there are many ways and places to honor Black History Month.
“I love the idea that my grandchildren one day or my great-grandchildren will be saying grandma use to have or great grandma use to have a business right there on that street right there,” Stewart said.
Stewart is a former news reporter in Toledo and for over a decade has made her dreams of sweet treats a reality at Jera’s Heavenly Sweets.
“Go for it do not give up,” she said.
And along Monroe St., a husband and wife duo owns Studio Three Two Nine Salon Suites.
“I love creating opportunities for myself and others,” Doug Keaton, Owner of Studio Three Two Nine Salon Suites said.
At Studio Three Two Nine Salon Suites, there’s a lot for people to do.
From getting a haircut to getting your nails taken care of you can stop by K’Janee Boutique.
“We wanted to be a part of the movement of black history as the black community move forward and take ownership of our own destiny,” Keaton said.
In north Toledo, the acclaimed Josephine’s Soul Food Kitchen, named in honor of the owner’s grandmother, is still serving up classic soul food eats.
“I’m honored to have it recognized as one of the best and that’s what we try to do,” Jerome Grace, owner of Josephine’s Kitchen said.
From chicken to catfish, ribs and more, Josephine’s Kitchen’s owner Jerome said success is all about a commitment to your community and dreaming big.
“Believe in your dream, don’t listen to what everybody else says your dream is your dream,” Grace said.
He adds, that building a business is tough but rewarding.
“It’s a lot of ups and downs you know what I’m saying and adversity, you have to face but if you really dig deep you can prevail in this business,” Grace said.
Click here for a list of Black-owned businesses you can visit in our area.
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