Sadiyyah Maamoon-Means is the owner of The Cultural Collective Café & BrickNKulture Events Space, the first and only Black woman-owned coffee shop with a community events space in Gloucester County, NJ. Where she curates vibrant events focused on community, creativity, and economic empowerment, all while working to amplify Black-owned businesses. We had a chance to sit down with her to ask about her experience with entrepreneurship and LAEDA’s training program.
(1) LAEDA: Entrepreneurship is a very challenging path to take with many different possible directions. What made you decide to become an entrepreneur?
“I have always known I wanted to own my own business. It took some time to figure out exactly what that would look like, but I was certain that entrepreneurship was my path. While working my 9-to-5, I started exploring side ventures to generate extra income, all in pursuit of the freedom to live life on my own terms. The idea of FREEDOM is what truly excites me as an entrepreneur.
I am not sure what the future holds, but one thing is clear: Despite the highs and lows, I would not trade the entrepreneurial journey for anything.”
(2) LAEDA: Why did you choose your industry?
“My industry is real estate, a field that opens doors to countless opportunities. During the pandemic, I found myself searching for something different, which led me to opening a coffee shop and community events venue. It has been an incredible journey, and I can honestly say that it has been an amazing ride.”
(3) LAEDA: Tell me about your experience while attending WBA. What have the major takeaways been from the program? Have you had any “Ah-ha!” moments? How did the program help you?
“I always say you can never stop learning. Although I was already in business when I attended the program, it gave me a fresh perspective and helped me elevate as an entrepreneur. The connections that I have made along the way have truly been a blessing.”
(4) LAEDA: Tell me about your journey on the road to business start-up. What have been some of the challenges, successes, failures, etc.?
“My biggest challenge was opening during the COVID-19 pandemic, on October 5th, 2020, to be exact. Having to open and then shut down just two months later was overwhelming, and I was not sure which direction to take. I had to pivot in many ways, and I often look back and wonder where I would be if I had given up. However, when I look at where I am now, I know it was all worth it. I am truly grateful and blessed.”
(5) LAEDA: Could you tell me a little about where your business is today?
“My business has experienced tremendous growth! We are proud to be the first and only Black woman-owned coffee shop with a community events venue in Gloucester County, NJ. Our café is open daily, serving locally sourced teas, coffees, and pastries.
Recently, we were awarded a grant for an exterior mural from the Gloucester County Cultural and Heritage Commission at Rowan College of South Jersey, the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts. We have been featured in the media multiple times, including on a local television station.
We have become a vibrant hub for the community, hosting creative, community-focused, and empowerment events. We have built incredible relationships with local businesses and organizations, and we are proud to host our Black Artisan & Farmers Market every summer—now in its 4th season.
Our space also provides a platform for small businesses to highlight their services and products. Plus, we are thrilled to offer our venue to the community for private events. We cannot wait to see what the future holds for us in the coming months!”
(6) LAEDA: Do you have any advice for future (or existing) entrepreneurs?
“Don’t stop—if you have a vision, go for it. Trust yourself and stay true to your path, regardless of what others may say. Things will not always be perfect, and believe me; entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart. But with FAITH and belief in yourself, you can make it happen.”
More about The Cultural Collective Café & BrickNKulture Events Space:
First and Only Black Woman Owned Coffee shop with a Community Events Space in Gloucester County, NJ. We curate vibrant Community, Creative, & Economic Empowerment events, all while focusing on amplifying Black businesses. We are an inclusive community focused tribe; we believe that we are stronger together and we are committed to empowering our community. We believe that there is enough for everyone. We invite you to join our community and we are confident that we will grow together.
Sadiyyah Maamoon-Means can be reached at:
Intagram: @https://www.instagram.com/thecafenj/ @https://www.instagram.com/bricknkulture/
Tik Tok: @thecafenj
FaceBook: wearetheculturalcollective
Website: https://www.bricknkulture.com/
Visit the location at: 65 N Broad Street, Woodbury NJ 08096
About the Women’s Business Academy (WBA):
The Women’s Business Academy (WBA) is a free, nine-week business skills training course offered in Camden, NJ in the Spring and Fall each year. Qualified entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and continued technical assistance. Apply online at www.LAEDA.com.