BLK + GRN champions toxin-free living and supports Black artisans through a curated selection of all-natural products.
Dr. Kristian Edwards, a professor of public health and a passionate advocate for natural lifestyle choices, stands as a beacon of empowerment and change in the wellness industry. Her commitment to holistic well-being and community empowerment is most evident through her work with BLK + GRN, a marketplace that champions toxin-free living and supports Black artisans. In an interview with Entrepreneur Prime magazine, Dr. Edwards shares her journey and vision behind this transformative platform.
BLK + GRN is more than just a marketplace; it is a movement that embodies Dr. Edwards’ belief in the power of #BlackGirlMagic and the transformative potential of mindful consumerism. The platform offers a curated selection of all-natural products, including skincare, home essentials, and bath and body care, all crafted by Black artisans. This initiative not only promotes personal health but also fosters economic empowerment within the Black community by providing a platform for Black-owned businesses to thrive.
The inspiration for BLK + GRN stemmed from a personal journey that began with Dr. Edwards’ desire to address the disparities highlighted in a 2017 study by the Environmental Working Group. The study revealed that products marketed to Black people contained more toxic chemicals than those marketed to other demographics. Motivated by this revelation, Dr. Edwards embarked on a quest to embrace natural, non-toxic products. Her journey led her to realize the intersectionality of her mission: to prioritize personal wellness while uplifting Black-owned businesses.
Central to BLK + GRN’s ethos is the meticulous curation of its offerings. Dr. Edwards and her team employ a rigorous selection process to ensure that each product meets stringent criteria for quality, safety, and alignment with the platform’s values. This approach has established BLK + GRN as a trusted destination for those seeking products that nurture the body and reflect a commitment to sustainability and community well-being.
The selection process for Black artisans and creators featured on BLK + GRN is thorough and intentional. The team, composed of Black women’s health experts, carefully chooses artisans whose products align with the values of health, wellness, and community cultivation. The process involves four steps: discovery, alignment, quality assurance, and testing. Each product is evaluated against the Toxic Twenty List, ensuring that nothing scores above a 5 for toxicity. Dr. Edwards personally tests every product to guarantee its effectiveness and quality.
Customer satisfaction is a top priority for BLK + GRN. While all sales are final, the platform is committed to addressing any issues that arise. If a customer receives a damaged or incorrect order, a replacement is promptly shipped. Feedback on products is shared with creators to help them improve and refine their offerings continually.
To maintain the integrity of its offerings, BLK + GRN stays updated on industry trends and regulations by utilizing the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep® database. This resource provides reliable data on the toxicity of ingredients in personal care products, ensuring that BLK + GRN’s product selection remains safe and sustainable.
Looking to the future, Dr. Edwards envisions growth and innovation for BLK + GRN. She is particularly excited about expanding her presence on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where she plans to engage with her audience more directly. Through these channels, she aims to share insights on healthy living, including tips on healthy eating, incorporating exercise into daily routines, self-love, and gardening, alongside her advocacy for non-toxic products.
Dr. Edwards’ vision for BLK + GRN is one of continued advocacy and empowerment. She remains dedicated to amplifying Black voices, championing natural living, and nurturing a community of empowered individuals. Her work is redefining wellness, one product at a time, and inspiring others to make informed choices that align with their values and contribute to a healthier, happier world.
Source : Entrepreneur Prime magazine.
