About Us

The Black Women’s Entrepreneurship Brunch “BWEB” is a collaboration between The Vegan Hood Chefs and Martha Carmella Wilkins. This event is a cultivated space to empower Black Women-owned businesses (BWOB) through culture, education, health, and community. Our mission is to use these elements to support the development and sustainability of BWOB in the SF Bay Area by being the bridge between black women entrepreneurs (BWEs) and funding organizations. This event is a sacred space for Black women to raise awareness around the lack of representation in their respective industries and the need for resources for their businesses to succeed. The BWEB aims to provide a sacred space for Black women to come together to celebrate and engage in activities that promote healing, connection, culture, and financial equity.

The Goals of BWEB...

1). Reduce burnout amongst Black women business owners by providing them with health and wellness resources.

2) Increase access to financial capital amongst BWEs by directly connecting them to funding organizations and agencies.

3) Increase a sense of community and mentorship by providing participants with a directory and intentional network opportunities.

4) Increase education about starting and running a business for Black women by providing a panel of funding agencies and experienced BWOB leaders to share knowledge.

Meet the Team

Co-founder

Martha Carmella Wilkins

A licensed Physician Assistant and Certified Athletic Trainer, Martha graduated from Cal State Monterey Bay's Physician Assistant program in 2021. She brings over 15 years of direct patient care experience in sports medicine and athletic training to the table. In addition, to her sports medicine background, Martha has trained clients from various backgrounds and fitness levels, from clients who are post partum, to clients who have chronic pain or injuries. Martha is able to meet each client where they are and help individuals achieve their goals. Whether the goal is weight loss, muscle building, injury prevention or managing pain, Martha has it covered.

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Co-Founders

Ronnishia Johnson-Hasan & Rheema Calloway

They specialize in turning many of our soul food and American style favorites into delicious vegan meals. Their passion for community organizing, creativity, and food has allowed them to launch a food initiative to help fight against food justice and social inequity within the San Francisco community. These chefs have recognized how nutrition education and access to healthy foods has contributed to the health conditions of many communities of color.

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Product Manager

NiEma Baptista

Ni Ema Baptista is a seasoned professional with an impressive track record of over 20 years in marketing and public relations, specializing in the entertainment and live events industry. Armed with a BA in communications/media, she further honed her expertise with certifications in women's entrepreneurship from Cornell University and disruptive strategy from Harvard Business School. Hailing from East Oakland, she brings a unique perspective and passion to her work, evident in her collaborations with beloved artists and top global brands, solidifying her position as a respected and accomplished figure in the field.