National Black Business Month | Brandi Battle-Brown

Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a native of Richmond, Virginia, entrepreneur, and owner of Ms. Bee’s Juice Bar & Café situated in the historic community of Brookland Park Boulevard.

With a passion for creating healthy options, I started juicing out of my car, and in 2020, I became the first black woman to open a juice bar in Richmond, VA.

Ms. Bee’s Juice Bar & Café fosters healthy eating patterns by offering freshly pressed juices, smoothies, salads, sandwiches, house-brewed teas, and a host of vegan food selections. Ms. Bee’s Juice Bar & Café takes a dual approach to healthy living by offering healthy choice options along with targeted education for developing and sustaining a long-term healthy lifestyle.

How do you think the increased visibility of black entrepreneurs can inspire future generations?
When young black youth come into my establishment, they are so intrigued that I own a business and I look like them. My kids also work for me. So, I am showing the generational wealth and showing them that they too can own their own business one day. You will never work as hard for a company or an individual as hard as you will work for yourself. The fact that they can see me as a black entrepreneur is more inspirational than just saying what they can do or be. When I explain to them my dreams, vision, and story, they get really excited about growing up and one day owning their own business.

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What are some unique challenges you've faced as a black entrepreneur, and how have you overcome them?
As a black entrepreneur for over five years in business, we definitely face more adversities than the average business owner in the city. We are not recognized for all we do for the community and the uniqueness we bring to the community with food, health, wealth, etc. We are the last on the totem pole to be recognized. We need more support from the community, the city, and all local television and radio stations.

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BLK RVA is all about supporting the thriving Black businesses and culture in the Richmond region and encouraging others to do the same. Can you share a few of your favorite local, Black-owned businesses?
Sweet Spot
Shrimps
Family Secrets
Mama Js
Southern Kitchen

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When we say the name BLK RVA, what does that mean to you?

BLK RVA means Black Excellence.