In 2022, Tricia Blake and Natalie Royer formed Black Excellence – a Community Interest Company established to spotlight Black entrepreneurship, celebrate cultural diversity, and create lasting opportunities for Black-owned businesses. They tell us more about what they do and why they think it’s important to support underrepresented groups, in business and beyond

Tricia and Natalie’s journey began several years ago, when they met working together for a housing association. Tricia, also a jewellery maker, found a natural partner in Natalie, who specialises in PR, marketing, and branding. Combining their strengths, shared values, and commitment to giving people a platform and opportunities to succeed, Black Excellence was born.

“We both have a strong work ethic and play to our strengths,” Natalie explains. “Out of our initial conversations came the idea for Black Excellence. That grew during the Covid-19 pandemic, when there was a global focus on racial justice following the death of George Floyd. We wanted to do our bit to address systemic inequalities in housing, education, business, and healthcare, and turn our ideas into action.”

Black Excellence is about creating opportunities and visibility for Black business leaders and entrepreneurs. Tricia and Natalie use their expertise in business to help people fulfil their potential. They also put on events in places like markets, giving traders the opportunity to showcase their products to lots of people.

“Black Excellence is a not-for-profit organisation, so we can apply for funding and support our vendors to make money,” adds Tricia. “That’s how we can keep costs down for market pitches and provide events in popular, busy areas with great footfall.”

Black Excellence does more than provide space for businesses, though – it offers a rounded package of support to help them develop. Through mentorship, workshops, and tailored resources, Black Excellence supports entrepreneurs at every stage.

For instance, they guided a young fashion entrepreneur to host her first fashion show, offering the logistical and promotional support she needed to help bring her vision to life.

Workshops on topics such as accounting and brand identity are another important part of their offer. “We teach people and point them in the right direction,” says Natalie.

One of Black Excellence’s most successful ventures has been its series of pop-up events. These have taken place across London, including three that took place recently in Islington’s Archway Market. The events showcased Black-owned businesses, with an emphasis on female and young entrepreneurs.

Tricia and Natalie are especially passionate about inspiring young people. “Not everyone is academic, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be brilliant entrepreneurs,” says Natalie.

The organisation runs workshops aimed at helping young people to develop their business plans and explore their entrepreneurial potential.

For women, the focus is on empowerment and flexibility. “We want women to see that they can work from home, run a business, and take care of their children,” Tricia emphasises. “It’s about showing them that anything is possible.”

Black Excellence is popping up at Archway Market again on Wednesday 19 March, 12noon–8pm, with stalls offering crafts, fashion, jewellery and more from Black-owned businesses. Enjoy live entertainment, too! Entry is free, so just drop by.

Want to stay updated about Black Excellence? Follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

If you are interested in becoming a trader at one of Islington’s markets, visit the council website for more information and to submit an application.