Strands of Faith: How Amika Coleman Built a Movement and Won Mississippi's Top Small Business Honor
A Story of Purpose, Faith, and Entrepreneurship
In a time when Black businesses are navigating economic headwinds, rising costs, and shrinking institutional support, Amika Coleman stands as a beacon of what is possible when vision meets purpose. The founder of Strands of Faith, a nationally recognized hair care brand, Coleman has just been named the Mississippi Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration — a well-deserved honor for a woman who turned a personal hair care journey into a thriving movement.
From Personal Journey to National Brand
Like many Black women entrepreneurs, Coleman's business began with a deeply personal need — finding healthy, affirming hair care products that honored her natural hair. What started as a personal mission transformed into Strands of Faith, a brand that champions healthy products while inspiring confidence, faith, and community pride.
Embodying the spirit of the Buy Black365 movement, Coleman's brand is more than a product line — it is a philosophy. It is a daily commitment to investing in Black-owned businesses, celebrating Black culture, and building generational wealth within the community.
Representing Mississippi on the National Stage
Coleman will travel to Washington, D.C., in early May to represent Mississippi during National Small Business Week, joining top innovators and entrepreneurs from across the country. Her presence on that stage is not just a personal achievement — it is a statement about what Black women entrepreneurs are capable of when given access and recognition.
Why This Matters
Black women are among the fastest-growing segments of entrepreneurs in the United States, yet they continue to face significant barriers to capital, contracts, and recognition. Stories like Amika Coleman's remind us that when we invest in our diverse talents, we elevate everyone. Her success is not just her own — it belongs to every young Black girl who dares to dream of building something of her own.
Support Black-owned businesses. Celebrate Black excellence. And when you see greatness rising in your community — amplify it.
