Afrotechture is the destination for black artisans goods in Canada. We strive to showcase Canada's "hidden gems" in our community, by providing a retail space for artisans with roots in the African and Caribbean diasporas. As artisans ourselves, we know from personal experience the struggle that black entrepreneurs face in getting products in front of the public. We opened Afrotechture to give our talented Black artisans a place where our heritage would be celebrated. So come downtown to Afrotechture and discover the diaspora! Resa Solomon-St. Lewis & Tracey Solomon Co-founders, Afrotechture
black history fact: Mary Ann Shadd Cary was an activist, educator, and the first Black woman to publish a newspaper (The Provincial Freeman) in North America.
Wax Poetic
When you think of African fabrics, bold patterns and vibrant colours immediately spring to mind!
Click on the image to go behind the scenes and explore the making of these popular African textiles known as Ankara Wax Print.
black history fact: In 2015, 'Fifteen Dogs' by André Alexis became the first book to win BOTH Canada Reads and the Scotiabank Giller Prize.
Read All About It! Snag one of these titles by Black Authors
Representation Matters: African Princess Power
What's In A Name?
Our name can be an invitation to learn more about our origins and our family history! This heartwarming story by Ottawa's own Michael Assivero follows young Theodore as he tells us why he thinks everybody's name is special. Perfect bedtime read! Find it here
A Story of Resilience & Hope
A first-hand account of the life of Robert Katende, the man behind Phiona Mutesi (the Ugandan National Chess Champion known as the Queen of Katwe) and his personal story as a war-torn refugee turned missionary who lifted Ugandan children out of the slums through the game of chess. Find it here
Shine On, Little One!
This book will start your child on their journey of self-love, confidence and curiosity through the empowerment of positive affirmations. Children will see kids of all abilities having fun and exploring the world around them with friends & family.
black history fact: Led by Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana and Cameroon, African countries produce more plantains (nearly 30 tonnes) than all other regions combined.
Caffeine Rush
Coffee's origins date back centuries to the ancient coffee forests in Ethiopia. Legend has it that Kaldi, a goat herder first discovered the potential of these beloved beans.
Watch the video of an Ethiopian coffee ceremony and see how the Ethiopians do it!
black history fact: Canadians of Caribbean origin belong to one of the largest non-European ethnic groups in Canada. By 1973, they accounted for almost 13 per cent of all immigration to Canada.
Nuts About You
The secrets of the shea nut are out! Shea butter has long been a staple Africa and throughout the diaspora, and it's magical moisturizing propertis make it an essentiaI ingredient in many bath, body and skincare applications.
black history fact: Born in Fredericton, NB in 1935, Willie O'Ree was the NHL's first Black Player, making his NHL debut on Jan. 18, 1958, with the Boston Bruins
Meet the Founders: Sisters, Partners & Entrepreneurs
Summa Summarum: Sisters & Partners
Resa Solomon-St. Lewis earned her BASc. in Chemical Engineering at U of Ottawa and headed to the Federal government for a long career, progressing to Executive roles. She left the public service for Chef School, launching a new career. Today, Resa is an award-winning Chef, Food Artisan and Entrepreneur. She is the the Owner of Baccanalle Caribbean Lifestyle Foods, and a proud Wife and Mom in Ottawa.
Tracey Solomon studied at McGill University and after several years as a management consultant, moved to New York where she set her sights on the healthcare industry. Today, Tracey runs her own consulting practice and feeds her creative side with Flatbush Granola, her artisanal granola venture based in Brooklyn.
TALENT ALL AROUND US
Meet Our Makers
We are proud to showcase Black Canadian Artisans with roots in the African and Caribbean diasporas. Our artisans talents cover a fantastic range - from food and beverage, to home decor, bath and beauty and more. Visit our Meet the Makers section to read up on all of our artisans.
