KAMALA HARRIS THE VICE PRESIDENT
Meet the Democratic Presidential Nominees
Kamala Harris
Vice President and Democratic Presidential Nominee Kamala Harris, born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, is the first female, first African American, and first South Asian American Vice President of the United States. She earned her degree from Howard University and a law degree from UC Hastings. Harris began her career as a deputy district attorney, then became San Francisco’s District Attorney in 2003, focusing on criminal justice reform. She served as California’s Attorney General from 2011 to 2017, working on foreclosure settlements, environmental protection, and marriage equality. In 2016, Harris was elected to the U.S. Senate, where she advocated for health care reform, immigration, and criminal justice reform. She ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020 but later joined Joe Biden’s ticket as his Vice Presidential nominee. Elected in November 2020, she made history as the first woman and the first African American and South Asian American Vice President. Her focus includes the COVID-19 pandemic response, immigration reform, and voting rights. Harris’s career is marked by historic achievements and a commitment to social justice and equality.
And she is now the 2024 Democratic Presidential Nominee for President of the United States of America!
Governor Tim Walz (Coach)
DNC Nominee for Vice President Governor Walz enlisted in the Army National Guard when he turned 17 and served for 24 years, rising to the rank of Command Sergeant Major. After attending college thanks to the GI Bill, Tim Walz served his community as a high school teacher and football coach for 2 decades – taking his team to the state championship for the first time in the school’s history. He became a member of Congress in a Republican district by representing the needs of farmers and rural America and served for 6 terms. Walz was the ranking member on the House Veterans Affairs Committee, where he passed legislation to help stem veterans’ suicides. As Governor, Tim Walz cut taxes for working families, lowered the cost of insulin and eliminated junk fees, and protected women’s right to choose. And, he signed paid leave into law so that parents can take care of sick families without losing their job. Governor Walz stood up for fundamental freedoms and made Minnesota the first
state to pass a law codifying abortion rights after the Supreme Court overturned Roe. He funded Minnesota police departments, putting more cops on the street and investing in body cameras, and established universal background checks for gun purchases. And, he worked across the aisle to pass a bipartisan infrastructure package. Governor Walz met his wife Gwen teaching high school in Nebraska. Governor Walz and Mrs. Walz have two children, Hope and Gus. Governor Walz and Mrs. Walz struggled with years of fertility challenges and had their daughter, Hope, through reproductive health care like IVF – further cementing his commitment to ensuring all Americans have access to this care.
Meet Jotaka Eaddy, Whose Weekly Zoom Call Created the Most Potent Campaign Tool of 2024
By Ruth Umoh Fortune Magazine,
September 2024 Issue.
Introduction: The Power Behind a Movement
Jotaka Eaddy launched Win With Black Women after witnessing racist abuse directed at prominent women.
The Oprah Winfrey–Hosted Zoom Event
The glitzy Unite for America Zoom event, held on September 19, was hosted by Oprah Winfrey and featured a star-studded list of participants from entertainment, government, and business. The event celebrated Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris and brought together 140 unity groups, such as White Women: Answer the Call, White Dudes for Harris, and Cat Ladies for Harris.
Oprah Winfrey, speaking to a massive audience, emphasized the uniqueness of this grassroots movement. She directed her attention to Jotaka Eaddy, who started Win With Black Women. “I know y’all been doing this a long time,” said Winfrey, “but we ain’t never seen nothing like this before!”
Massive Engagement and Fundraising Success
The livestreams of Winfrey’s event amassed over 2 million views by the next afternoon, broadcast on YouTube and partially aired on CNN and
The event highlighted the scale of Eaddy’s influence, whose group evolved from a weekly Zoom call to a powerful network. Win With Black Women grew rapidly, with a record-breaking Zoom call on July 21, where 44,000 participants joined, and another 50,000 tuned in through other platforms. This historic gathering raised $1.6 million for Kamala Harris’s campaign in a single evening.
A
Network With Deep Roots From Humble Beginnings to National Influence
Eaddy’s ascent to political and social prominence is no accident. Her work is the culmination of years spent planning, strategizing, and organizing to leverage the economic and social power of Black women. As Shannon Nash, former CFO of Alphabet subsidiary Wing, puts it, “It’s about using our collective economic power to demand that we’re given a seat at the table— and more importantly, building our own table.”
Growth and Influence of Win With Black Women
Win With Black Women has grown organically through word-of-mouth introductions, creating an if-you-knowyou-know grassroots movement. The platform has attracted notable figures like Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and celebrities including Dionne Warwick, Cicely Tyson, and filmmaker Ava DuVernay. Even Oprah Winfrey occasionally drops in on calls.
Eaddy’s Journey and the Power of Community
Early Life and First Encounter with the Power of a Network
Eaddy’s story begins in a humble home on an unpaved road in Johnsonville, South Carolina. She learned public speaking by delivering Easter speeches at her local church. Her debating skills earned her a nomination to a prestigious conference for aspiring lawyers during high school, but the $3,000 cost was beyond her family’s means.
The Support of Black Women in Her Community
In a poignant reflection, Eaddy recalls how the Black women in her church and community sold chicken dinners and hosted bake sales to raise the funds needed to send her to the conference.
“That was the first time I saw the power of a network,” says Eaddy. Many of the women who supported her had never flown on an airplane, yet they made sure she could.
Kimberely Aitch (in green), President of Houston Citywide Stylists and Beauticians, shares a moment with Jotaka Eaddy, inspiring collaboration and leadership.
Unite for America Event
Oprah
Winfrey for Kamala Harris
The Unite for America event hosted by Oprah Winfrey for Kamala Harris on September 19, 2024, had extensive viewership across multiple platforms. The YouTube livestream attracted more than 2 million views within 24 hours, and parts of the event were broadcast on CNN and MSNBC, though their exact audience figures were not disclosed. However, given the high-profile nature of the event and its participants, it’s estimated that CNN and MSNBC’s combined viewership typically ranges between 1.5 to 3 million viewers during significant live events, particularly those involving political figures like Harris and cultural icons. In addition to traditional broadcasts, social media engagement was a key factor in the event’s reach, with heavy traction on platforms like Twitter and Facebook, where users shared live reactions and clips. Factoring in the reach from media coverage and social platforms, the total audience across all channels likely exceeded 5 to 7 million people.
Source: Newsx, Black Enterprise
Empowering Black Entrepreneurs: PowerUp Expo Set to Drive Business Success
Dudley Beauty Cares, Inc. a non-profit 501(c)3 presents the inaugural PowerUp Beauty and Business Entrepreneur Expo on Saturday, September 28, 2024 from 10AM to 6:30PM at the Joseph S. Koury Convention Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. This premiere event is dedicated to empowering Black entrepreneurs, continuing the legacy of Joe L. Dudley Sr., co-founder of Dudley Products, Inc., whose mission to create 220 Black millionaires has paved the way for countless entrepreneur success stories. The PowerUp Expo is designed to equip both established and aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and connections they need to grow their businesses and achieve sustainable success. The event will feature a range of beauty and business vendors and classes covering critical topics such as:
• Access to Capital
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Business
• Business Plan Development
• Selecting The Right Business Entity
• Emerging Business Industries
• Marketing
Attendees also have the opportunity to hear two dynamic keynote addresses that underscore the event’s mission. Former North Carolina A&T State University Head Coach Rod
Broadway will share his insights on the principles for championship success and CEO of Support Black Colleges Corey Arvinger will share his entrepreneurial journey, serving as a reminder that strength and confidence are cultivated through perseverance and an unwavering commitment to one’s vision.
The PowerUp Expo will also feature the JLD Student Pitch Competition for young, innovative entrepreneurs to present their business ideas and gain valuable feedback from industry experts. Participants must be currently enrolled in a Beauty School or Undergraduate Program. Top three winners will receive monetary scholarships towards their education.
Dudley Beauty Cares PowerUp Beauty & Business Entrepreneur Expo is an opportunity for Black entrepreneurs to network, learn and grow. Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this event promises to be a transformative experience where the endless possibilities for success become visible.
Registration Information
Dudley Beauty Cares PowerUp Beauty and Business Entrepreneur Expo is open to the public. Registration is required. General, VIP and All Access Tickets are available. Early registration is encouraged, as space is limited. For more information and
to register, visit https://dudleybeautycares.org/events/.
About Dudley Beauty Cares, Inc.
Dudley Beauty Cares, Inc. is committed to upholding the legacy of Joe L. Dudley Sr. by offering education, resources, and support tailored specifically to Black entrepreneurs. Based in High Point, NC, we aim to provide the tools necessary for success, helping individuals thrive in both the beauty and business industries. Through mentorship, training, and community initiatives, our mission is to inspire, empower, and guide entrepreneurs toward financial independence and long-term success.
The skillful storytelling and over 30 beautiful illustrations in this delightful new book transport you back in time to the humble beginnings of Dr Joe L Dudley Sr., aka Little Joe. Even as a child his life embodied the catchphrase, Tough Times Don’t Last, Tough People Do!
Ella C. Wilson graduated from NC A&T State Univ. with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. Affectionately known as “Ms. Ella”, she was Dr. Dudley’s personal assistant for almost 10 years. She always wanted to write inspirational books after working in group homes. Ms. Ella states,“If young people’s challenges are not addressed, it could prevent them from becoming successful in later life.”
Place Your Order Today at www.ShopEvery.Black
Only $25 (plus shipping and taxes)
Announcing the SB Fuller and Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. Legacy Tour
SB Fuller
June 4, 1905-October 24, 1988
American entrepreneur Founder and President of the Fuller Products Company and mentor to John H. Johnson (Ebony-Jet, George E. Johnson (Johnson Products Company), Joe L. Dudley, Sr. (Dudley Q +) and so many others.
Joe Louis Dudley, Sr.
May 9, 1937-February 8, 2024
American entrepreneur, humanitarian, co-founder of Dudley Q plus, founder of Dudley Cosmetology Univ., Pres. George Bush’s 467th Point of Light, author of Walking by Faith, I Am I Can and I Will, Horatio Alger Assoc. member among many others.
Join us on a journey celebrating the inspiring lives of SB Fuller and his mentee, Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr., two trailblazing African American entrepreneurs. Explore their rise from humble beginnings to business success, to self-made millionaires and their dedication to mentoring others and creating opportunities. Through engaging stories and vintage clips, discover the powerful legacies they left behind and be inspired to embrace entrepreneurship and community impact. Explore the key moments and milestones that shaped their paths, from S.B. Fuller’s rise as the founder of Fuller Products Company to Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr.’s transformation into a dynamic leader in the beauty industry with Dudley Products Inc.
This tour is being orchestrated by Dr. Jimmy J. Davies, Founder of Every.Black, LLC. The mission of Every.Black is to promote the use of technology in business.
Email: Info@Every.Black Phone: 919-265-8045 or 336-392-8523
Register: www.Every.Black/Tour .Black is the New .Com!
About Dr. Joe L Dudley, Sr.
The Dr. Joe L. Dudley Sr. Legacy Project is currently underway to document the legacy and lifetime impact of legendary businessman, hair-care entrepreneur and humanitarian Joe Louis Dudley, Sr., Co-Founder of the DudleyQ+ brand along with his wife, Dr. Eunice Dudley. He was labeled mentally retarded, and suffered a speech impediment but his mother, never stopped believing in him. In 1957 he invested $10.00 in a Fuller Products sales kit and began selling beauty products. From that humble beginning, he and his wife created a company bringing in over $35 million a year. Over the years he has trained, mentored and impacted the lives of thousands of successful men and women.
All in the Family
Follow the Steps Below to View the Joe L. Dudley, Sr. Legacy Project
1. Go to www.JoeLDudleySr.com
2. Select the desired subscription level; Silver($10 per mo.to view the interviews), Gold($25 per mo. to hear his speeches) or Platinum($50 per mo. includes marketing on Social Media)
3. Create your account.
4. enter your billing information.
5. View the project!
Register to be a part of the project at: https://www.Every.Black/Register
From 1967 through 2008, Joe L. Dudley, Sr. & Eunice Dudley led Dudley Products Company to be listed in the top 50 in Black Enterprise Magazine’s Top 100 Black Owned Businesses. During this time, Dudley Cosmetology University in Kernersville, NC and 4 strategically located schools in the Dudley Beauty School System (DBSS) were created. Through dedication, hard work and persistence, they helped take the DudleyQ+ Brand to a respected and world renowned position in the Beauty Industry.
In June 2008, Joe & Eunice restructured the company and turned it over to their daughter, Ursula Dudley Oglesby who began Dudley Beauty Corp, LLC. Their son, Joe Dudley Jr., is President of Dudley Direct, LLC and is an author, speaker and entrepreneurship coach. Daughter Genea Dudley Gidey, is President of Balance Day Spas offering massages, facials, nail care and waxing.
Dudley Legacy Leaves Footprints
- Joe L. Dudley, Sr. had a major impact on the success of the individuals listed below.
Betty Clawson
School Director at Dudley Beauty College
Chicago, Il
Tim Johnson Founder and CEO of Tim Johnson International Raleigh NC
Miki Wright
Host of the Beauty SuperStars Talk Podcast & Salon Business Coach
Raleigh NC
Additional Interviewees for the Dr. Joe L. Dudley Legcay Podcast include the following:
Ben Adams
Bertha Adams
Marcus Alexande
Ollie Alexander
Annyck Alexandre
Roxana M. Alston
David Anderson
Horace Anderson
Rudy Artis
Dr. Willie Bailey
Charmon Baker
Anthony Barber
Micheline Barber
Mrya Bean
Bernard Bell
R. M. Bell
Valerie Benton Smith
Ebony Blount
Malcolm Boney
Matthew Boney
Sabrina Boykin
Donald Bradley
Patric Bradley
Andrew Suber Brown
Busta Brown
Dwight Brown
John Brown
Patricia Brown
Terri Brown
Trina Brown
Cardes H. Brown Jr.
Nanette Buchanan
Deanna Bailey Burton
Rudolph Byars
Chuck Byrd
Damian Caldwell
Dorian Carter
Martin Casey
Tami Charles
Donevan Cherry
Richard Chong
Larry Clark
Sheri Clawson
Terrie Clawson
Deirdre Clay
Kevan Cooper
Margaret J. Cortez
Sharon Chaquan Cox
Gwendolyn Coxum
Liteta Croom
Dana Crosby
Randy Currance
Tameran Davenport
Preston Davis
Marvin Dawson
James Dean
Alfred Dudley
Cornelius(CC) Dudley
Dr. Eunice Dudley
William Dudley
Genea Dudley-Gidey
Joe Dudley Jr.
Joe L. Dudley, Sr.
Ursula Dudley-Oglesby
Martin P. Dunkerton
Marcus Eldridge
Acquilla Faye McCoy
Denzel Fleming
Machon Fogle
Louvina R. Ford
Chip Foust
Michelle Foust
Linda French
Abay Gidey
Sabrina Gilleylen
Tyler Gilleylen
Donovan Gordon
Patti Gordon
Della Grady
Denise Granberry
Denise Green
Tyrone Green
Kim Gregory
Lorenzo Griffin
San Griffin
Ashani M. Hamilton
Takeisha Hannor
Andrel Harris
Dr. Quincey Hawley
Anna H. Harris
Joanie Hayes
Scottie Hayes
Sheila Hayes
Willie Haynes
Eugene Haynesworth
Dr. Mildred Henry
Tammy Herod
Annie Higgins
Carnela Renée Hill
Dr. JB Hill
Rev. Jim Holley
Monique Holmes
William Hubbard
James Yancey Hunter
Kim Hunter
Maurice Irving
Charity Jackson
Audrey Jean Williams
Maria Jenkins
Charisma Jewels
Larry Johnson
Dr. Willie Jolly
Crystal Jones
Dorothea Jones
Gary Jones
Lance Jones
Laska Jones
Lella Jones
Mark Jones
Dr. Robyn Joppy
Deborah King
Joe Knight
Alfred Kowo
Adrian Lacey
Ishmael Lateef
Nellie Lee
John Lennon
Jarad Lewis
Rainer Lind
Arthur Lockhart
Dr. Debbie Bartlett Journalist, Author, Media Mogul and Former Dudley Beauty College Educator Nassau, Bahamas
Toni Love
Bridgette Mack
James Mahone
Dr. DaBeth Manns
Patricia Mathis
Dawn Mauney
Teon Mauney
Andread Mayers
Melanie McClain
Shelly McClain
Samuel McCrea
Bertha McCrimmon
Dr. Rita McGuire
Maurice McIntosh
Tamara McIntosh
Jackie Nettles Mclean
Mary McNeill
Betty MeKonnen
Robert Melvin
Stephen Middleton
Tammy &Tamia Mills
Lynda Monroe
James Montague
David Moore
Harvey Moore
Janice Moore
Gerard Morrison
Doris Mosley
Audrey Muhammad
Keya Neal
Quinton Nettles
Rhonda Newton
Mark Oglesby, Sr.
Mary Overton
Rev. Elliottt Parker
Carlos Parks
Rev. Dr. Joseph Parks
Cassandra Pickett
Dina Piersawl
Felicia Pollard
Tom Pope
Zsajuan Powe
Tasha Powell
Dr. Dre A. Ramseur
Rogers Ray
John and Rosie Raye
Asim Razzak, Jr.
Asim Razzak, Sr.
Randolph Reid
Cheryl Robinson
Johnny Robinson
Recardo Robinson
Dr. Jimmy Davies Founder, Every.Black LLC and the Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. Legacy Project Durham, NC
LaFania Rolling
Marjorie Rorie
Shiron Sanders
Charlie Scott
John Scroggins
Karen Shabazz
Monte Sharrod
Patricia Shields
Wanda Short
Bradford Simmons
Tanya Simmons-Reid
Darrell Slade
Randall K. Smith
Rev. Wayne Smith
Charles Stewart
George Stringer
Mildred Summerville
Gloria Talbert
Sam Tate
Chris Taylor
Phil Taylor
Sherry Taylor
Camille Terrell
Raymond Terry
Jacquelyn Thomas Zander Thomas
Ann Turner
Pamela Turner
Natalie Vaughn
James Walker
Terrence Walker
Angela Wall
Edward Wallace
Shammah Waller
Diane Washington
Elliott Washington
Charles Welch
Dr. Joe White
Maxine White
April Toliver Wilkins
Deborah Williams
Kenneth Williams
Lartisa Williams
Roy Williams
Tawana Williams
Willie Jean Williams
James Willis
Shaletta Wilson
Sharon Hill Withers
Michael Woods
The Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. Advocates and or Legacy Project Interviewees
Subscribe to the podcast at www.JoeLDudleySr.com to hear his speeches and see how he has interacted with the people listed below.
The Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. Advocates and or Legacy Project Interviewees
Subscribe to the podcast at www.JoeLDudleySr.com to hear his speeches and see how he has interacted with the people listed below.
Goodwill: Transforming Donations Into Lifelong Opportunities
Empowering individuals and communities through donations, training, and
More Than Just a Store
Local families know Goodwill as the place to find bargains on secondhand clothing, shoes, and household items that have been donated by the community. But what they may not know is that there’s a bigger story behind those Goodwill stores.
Turning Donations Into Opportunities
Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina transforms those donated items into training and career services that help people in our community find long-term employment and financial stability. Of every dollar earned through its retail stores, Goodwill puts 87 cents toward its mission and sustainability.
A Community-Centered Mission
As a nonprofit organization, Goodwill’s mission is to create opportunities for people to improve their lives through the power of work. Last year, Goodwill served more than 34,000 people throughout northwest North Carolina. Goodwill partners with other nonprofits as well as educational institutions like Forsyth Technical Community College and TransTech truck driving school to
ensure individuals have the resources they need as they search for jobs and start new careers.
Eboni’s
Journey: From Struggles to Success
One of those individuals is Eboni Lindsey, also known as Chef Cocoa. As a single mom seeking a better life for her two young daughters, Eboni relocated from New York to the Triad. Like many parents, Eboni struggled to find a job whose work hours matched up with her available childcare. She started selling food plates to earn extra money. Remembering how much she loved to cook, Eboni began to think about turning cooking into a career.
Support Beyond Training
She reached out to Goodwill and learned about the Providence Culinary Training program, a culinary course that Goodwill offers in partnership with Second Harvest FoodBank and Forsyth Tech. After touring the training facility, Eboni decided it was the ideal place for her to learn how a professional kitchen operates and acquire skills to run a catering service. Goodwill’s Outreach Scholarship Fund helped cover the cost
of her training.
A Business is Born
Almost halfway through, Eboni experienced childcare challenges. She turned to Goodwill again. Team members connected her with childcare funding offered through the Winston-Salem Foundation Childcare Grant. Eboni successfully completed her training, which included certifications in ServSafe, Mass Food Production, Catering Production, and Kitchen Safety Skills. After completing an internship, she found a job as a cook, but she had bigger plans for herself. Today, she is the proud owner/operator of COCOAZ FLAVORS, LLC, which caters corporate events, weddings, and other functions. Recently, she came full circle, catering a meeting of the Goodwill Business Advisory Council.
Career Centers: A Gateway to Opportunity
Goodwill provides most of its services through its Career Centers, including two locations in Forsyth County: the Forsyth County Career Center (2701 University Parkway) and the Goodwill Career Center/Prosperity Center (2760 Peters Creek Parkway). The Prosperity Center is a United Way collaborative with Goodwill and Financial Pathways of the Piedmont.
Supportive Services That Make a Difference
Goodwill helps people who are struggling to find work in several ways:
• One-on-one sessions with a Career Connections Specialist to write a resume, practice job interviews, and complete job applications;
• Computers to use for job searching and training;
• Training in in-demand job skills like trades and healthcare;
• Assistance with childcare, housing, and transportation;
career services.
• Free workshops on financial literacy, computer skills, and more;
• Hiring events with local employers.
Specialized Programs for Unique Needs
Goodwill also offers specialized programs for veterans, youth, people who’ve been incarcerated, and people with disabilities. The Access Center partnership with Forsyth Tech helps adults complete their high school educations. A wide range of programs for youth ages 13 to 24 provides tools for young people to reach their full academic and vocational potential.
Employment Services at No Cost Best of all, Goodwill’s employment services are free. Some training programs include a fee paid directly to the instructor, but those can often be covered by Goodwill’s Outreach Scholarship Fund. Goodwill can even cover the costs of clothing needed to start a new job, such as scrubs or kitchen-appropriate shoes.
The Power of Your Donations
That’s all possible thanks to people who donate their gently used clothing and household items to Goodwill and the people who shop there each day. Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina operates 51 retail and outlet stores, including nine in Forsyth County. The next time you pass by a Goodwill store, dig up a treasure in the Goodwill Outlet bins, or drop off a bag of clothing, remember – there’s a story behind every store.
Learn about Goodwill’s services and find your nearest store at www.goodwillnwnc.org.
Your donations fund career training and support services in your community.
ELENA DUDLEY OGLESBY DUDLEY BEAUTY CARES
Visit BlackBeautyLegacy.Org to join the movement to celebrate the contributions of many in the Black beauty industry. The organization is committed to illuminating the rich heritage and profound impact of the pioneers and is guided by the iconic legacy of the AHBAI Proud Lady.
Elena Dudley Oglesby: Championing Peace, Advocacy, and Wellness
Academic Focus on Global Understanding
Elena Dudley Oglesby is an enthusiastic student at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where she is pursuing a degree in International Studies with a concentration in Peace, Conflict, and Identity. Her academic focus underscores her dedication to understanding complex global issues and the diverse cultural dynamics that shape human interactions. Through her studies, Elena aspires to contribute to conflict resolution efforts and promote peace-building initiatives, especially those addressing identity-based challenges in diverse communities.
Passionate Advocate for Social Issues
Beyond academics, Elena is deeply committed to advocacy. She has actively participated in initiatives designed to raise awareness about social issues, particularly those related to health and wellness. Her passion is further reflected in her work on a marketing campaign for Dudley Products, where she skillfully
promoted health-conscious products. This marketing experience not only sharpened her communication abilities but also allowed her to integrate her advocacy work with practical business applications.
“Elena’s fluency in Spanish enhances her role as both an advocate and scholar, enabling her to engage with diverse communities and foster open dialogues on pressing issues affecting marginalized groups.”
A Scholar with a Global Perspective Elena’s fluency in Spanish enhances her role as both an advocate and scholar, enabling her to engage with diverse communities and foster open dialogues on pressing issues affecting marginalized groups. As she progresses in her studies, Elena remains devoted to using her international studies and advocacy background to promote understanding, wellness, and peace on local and global levels.
About Dudley Beauty Cares, Inc.
Dudley Beauty Cares, Inc. is committed to upholding the legacy of Joe L. Dudley Sr. by offering education, resources, and support tailored specifically to Black entrepreneurs. Based in High Point, NC, we aim to provide the tools necessary for success, helping individuals thrive in both the beauty and business industries. Through mentorship, training, and community initiatives, our mission is to inspire, empower, and guide entrepreneurs toward financial independence and long-term success.
This Father Built A Non-Toxic Feminine Care Company For His Wife And Daughters
BY JASMINE BROWLEY ESSENCE MAGAZINE
Demond Crump’s worst nightmare came true when his wife informed him that she was facing a serious health issue.
“I need a partial hysterectomy that was advised by my doctor and it caused heavy bleeding afterward,” Demond’s wife, Quiana Crump shared with Essence. “It was not too long after that my husband sought out a prototype of a sanitary pad that absorbed like nothing else on the market.”
Although she’d always fully supported her entrepreneurial husband in all of his endeavors through their decades-long marriage, Qiana said she wasn’t completely sold on the idea of him going into the feminine care business initially.
“As a woman, you know how men feel about periods,” she said, pointing out that menstruation conversations typically make men squeamish. “But he demonstrated what the product could do, I had complete buy-in.”
The prototype cost Demond $6 to produce and about a year to bring to market. Launched in 2019, Reign Pads touts their triple absorbency is like nothing customers have seen before. Demond adds: “What makes the sanitary napkins a game-changer is a hero material they’re infused with: graphene an ingredient that can help with micro-circulation, promote cell activity and support a healthier metabolism,” as detailed on the
brand’s website. “After speaking with ob-gyn’s and conducting deep research, I found that many of the chemicals found in feminine products on the market cause great harm over time. He’s right.
“What makes the sanitary napkins a game-changer is a hero material they’re infused with: graphene an ingredient that can help with micro-circulation, promote cell activity and support a healthier metabolism.”
In 2016, TIME reported that some experts were greatly concerned that the chemicals used to make tampons and other feminine care products can possibly lead to toxic shock syndrome (TSS) and cancer. This information only reinforced Demond’s passion to produce an alternative, and he was confident he could make a mark in the industry, even from the beginning. He says this isn’t the first time he’d built a business from the ground up. Demond shared that his entrepreneurial drive started at an early age.
“I’ve been an entrepreneur since 1994 while in my twenties coming out of the United States military,” Demond said, explaining he left after realizing he could never have true professional autonomy while enlisted regard
less of the amount of time he served. “So, entrepreneurship was something I always wanted to go after and achieve. And ironically, nobody in my family was an entrepreneur. Nobody. I just so happened to read a book that literally changed my life, Think and Grow Rich: A Black Choice by Dennis Kimbro. I read that book as a young man, and that set me on my path to entrepreneurship, and I never, ever looked back since then.”
Over time, the New Orleans native launched a successful car detailing business, but he was forced to fold it following hurricane Katrina 2005. It was prom-
pted a life-changing move for him and his family.
“We re-located to Georgia because of the storm, and that situation further reinforced the importance of being a business owner. I knew that I could always rebuild anywhere I went.” Now, he says his passion lies in building his mission-driven company that aims to help further the fight for healthy feminine care.
“As a husband and father, my wife and daughters initially inspired me to start the company,” Demond shared. “Now, I’m working to fulfill a need that’s much larger than my family.”
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