February is Black History Month. Here at Oryana we are taking the time to learn, reflect, and discover the stories behind the Black-owned products we have in stock. At the co-op, supporting small makers and producers from diverse backgrounds isn’t limited to one month, it’s something we value year-round. This short roundup highlights a few Black and African American owned brands you’ll find on our shelves, each offering thoughtfully crafted products and unique stories worth getting to know.
Ecos
The cleaning brand we all know and love is both African American- and women-owned, led by CEO Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, who is of African American and Greek descent, and continues the company her father originally founded. The household line focuses on creating products that are truly “clean” (no pun intended), meeting the U.S. EPA’s Safer Choice standards while offering effective everyday solutions.
Mina
Mina is named after the mother at the center of the family who started it all, and the brand was created to share the flavors and traditions of Moroccan cuisine with a wider audience. Its roots trace back to a home kitchen in Casablanca during the 1950s, where Mina first prepared her signature harissa for family and friends. Years later, her children turned those memories and recipes into a business, officially launching the company in 2010 as a way to honor her influence. Today the brand is led by her son, Fouad Kallamni, who views Mina as more than a line of pantry staples — it’s a way to introduce people to the warmth, color, and everyday culture of Morocco through food.
Alaffia
In 1996, a young man from Togo, West Africa, met a young woman from rural Washington State. Inspired by a shared calling to do right by the world, Alaffia was born. Founded in 2003, Alaffia continues to redefine the natural products industry through its values of Beauty, Equality and Empowerment, fair trade, and safe, efficacious hair, face and body care. Find Alaffia products on our shelves such as body soap, shampoo featuring shea butter, and even kid friendly formulas.
Ayeya
AYÉYA, meaning “life in balance,” was founded in 2022 by Olowo-n’djo “Olo,” starting with artisan baskets and 2024 launching body care with Shea Butter. Olo's vision was born in his homeland of Togo, West Africa. From the beginning, his goal extended beyond creating skincare and haircare products—he sought to drive lasting, positive change in his community. You can find AYÉYA bar soaps on the shelves in our wellness department.
The Honey Pot Co.
Founder Bea Dixon was suffering with bacterial vaginosis for 8 months when an ancestor came to her in a dream and gifted her with a vision to heal herself. She created The Honey Pot, feminine care, powered by herbs. Harnessing the power of herbs, science, community and education, The Honey Pot Co. empowers Black mothers to reclaim their wellness.
