Paving The Way In Non Traditional Industries
By: Derek Major | Black Enterprise
Black businesses have been booming in recent years. The coronavirus pandemic, the Black Lives Matter movement, and the focus on Black equity have led thousands of Black men and women across America to become bosses.
And according to Forbes, Black entrepreneurship continues to rise post-pandemic. The number of new Black business owners has risen 38%, while 17% of Black women are in the process of launching or already running a new business.
While many Black business owners are thriving in traditional occupations such as retail, food, fashion, and entertainment, some Black entrepreneurs have found success in nontraditional roles. Here are three Black entrepreneurs who have chosen different paths as business owners.
MONICA MIRAGLILO, GIRLBUILD
Temple alum Monica Miraglilo is on a mission to empower girls and women by giving them the knowledge and tools to build their own homes through GirlBuild, an initiative for women interested in the renovation and construction industries.
Through workshops, private sessions, a master class, and a podcast, Miraglilo teaches the ins and outs of construction and home renovation, including HVAC, hanging drywall, and plumbing.
“I started GirlBuild so I can empower women and give them the tools to build whatever they want,” Miraglilo tells BLACK ENTERPRISE. “I thought it was necessary; I felt like we are a very small percentage of the construction industry. But if you give us the tools, we can build anything. Because, like I say all the time, women are the backbone of building everything. We build family and relationships, so what better way than to build each other up?”
Less than 20% of women are in the construction industry, but Miraglilo, a former model, is changing that by teaching women and girls the skills that will give them a lifetime of knowledge. GirlBuild’s huge fanbase also includes fathers and grandfathers who love what Miraglilo is doing for their daughters and granddaughters.
GirlBuild is just getting started. Its plans include working with organizations and charities that give back to underprivileged women who need housing. Miraglilo is also considering a series of conferences and different cities GirlBuild can tap into to continue teaching young girls and women to build homes—and to feel accomplished and confident in themselves.
“GirlBuild is going to help you, shape you, and build you from the inside out, and we’re looking forward to holding conferences on our website,” Miraglilo says. “We’re working on bringing in different partners that are going to teach literacy, banking, how to apply for a loan, and dive into shaping their minds so they’re prepared.”