The Brown Mamas Marketplace, a platform dedicated to spotlighting Black women-owned businesses, is set to return on November 30.
The event, hosted by Muffy Mendoza, founder of Brown Mamas Inc., aligns with Small Business Saturday to showcase Pittsburgh-based Black-owned businesses, particularly those without storefronts.
Held at Emerald City on Smithfield Street from 12 P.M. to 4 P.M., the marketplace will feature vendors selling food, clothing, and jewelry, alongside educational opportunities for attendees.
Community organizations such as the Pittsburgh Black Breastfeeding Circle and Black Women for a Better Education will support the event.
Empowering Black Mothers
Mendoza launched Brown Mamas in 2012 to provide resources for local Black mothers to improve their health and economic well-being.
Inspired by a lack of accessible business information in her area, Mendoza established the Brown Mamas Marketplace as a platform for Black mother-entrepreneurs to gain visibility and resources.
“I needed space, and I knew other moms needed space, so why not create the space?” Mendoza shared.
This year’s marketplace aims to provide attendees with practical tools and inspiration. Guest speakers include Tayler Clemm, known as DAWA Mama, focusing on womb wellness, and Kahlil Darden, founder of Young Black Motivated Kings and Queens.
Holistic Approach to Success
With its theme of “womb, wealth, and wellness,” the event reflects Mendoza’s vision of holistic support for mompreneurs.
“Brown Mamas Marketplace is about creating a place where moms can sell their products, be supported by the Pittsburgh community, and also learn about different aspects of business,” she explained.
The marketplace also represents an opportunity for the community to support and engage with Black-owned businesses. Mendoza emphasized that the event is just the beginning, with plans to return in spring 2025 and expand its mission further.
