Part of my commitment to a more conscious lifestyle is to know exactly who I’m supporting. We have been conditioned to choose convenience - many of our lives are programmed to go with what we are served by our resources - so it’s no surprise that we also tend to consume this way as well. I know it’s not an easy task and I won’t always be successful in my efforts, but I know it’s a step in the right direction.

In light of the recent events, the world has become more aware of the social injustices happening to our Black and BIPOC communities everywhere. It has been extremely motivating to see people come together to educate and fight for these injustices. As many of us try to demonstrate solidarity, I also understand that everyone has their own way of showing support for the movement - some far less vocal than others.

One of the easiest ways we can continue to amplify melanated voices going forward within this community, is by supporting the talent of Black and BIPOC creatives.

Each month I want to highlight a few brands that you can all discover within fashion, food, lifestyle. I hope you can all join me in making this a part of your daily lives as well.

This month, I’ve mainly curated Black and BIPOC fashion brands that I’ve been supporting or recently discovered. Get to know them":

ROOP. I first discovered the London-based designer Natasha Fernandes Anjo through my friend Amy Strugis who gifted me one of their silk pieces not long ago. The brand primarily up-cycles or sources vintage fabrics to create one-of-a-kind handmade pieces. These extremely limited pieces are worth a go if you’re looking for some beautiful silk accessories to add to your wardrobe.

A.Au Shop. I met the beautiful Asiyami Gold on a press trip last year and she is an absolute goddess, so it came as no surprise when I stumbled across her fashion brand A.Au. The brands embodies elegance and romance, and each piece is sourced and made in Nigeria by local ateliers. The story behind A.Au is not only beautiful but also inspiring.

Míe. There has been many conversations about sustainability - most of which has led to very little action within the fast fashion industry - however, there are many smaller brands that were built on sustainability not just as an idea, but as a lifestyle and Míe is just one of them. The brand is locally made by seamstresses and artisans in Lagos, Nigeria where they provide design and fashion consciously made to be nature-friendly. Their collections focus is on resort wear and are made with natural and biodegradable fabrics with a refined sense of elegance and function.