Looking for Black-Owned Brands? 10 Modern Money Moves Inspired by Sonny’s People of Interest
Let’s be real: we all want to see our community thrive, but knowing exactly where to start can feel overwhelming. We talk about the legendary Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the spirit of the original Black Wall Street, but how do we translate that history into our 2026 bank accounts?
This month, we teamed up with Sonny to curate a special list of "People of Interest." These aren't just names in a history book; they are the blueprint for what we call "Modern Money Moves." From child prodigies and tech visionaries to the elders who paved the way, these individuals represent the excellence we celebrate every day at The Black Wall Streets.
When you choose to #Buyblack, you aren't just purchasing a product; you’re investing in a legacy. Here are 10 modern money moves inspired by Sonny’s curated legends that will help you build wealth while supporting the culture.
1. The Heritage Investment: Inspired by Carter G. Woodson
Known as the "Father of Black History," Woodson didn't just want us to remember the past: he wanted us to own it.
The Modern Money Move: Invest in your education and your narrative. Whether it’s buying books from Black authors or supporting platforms that tell our true story, your "brain trust" is your greatest asset.
Support the mission by learning more about our journey on our About Page.
2. Creative Capital: Inspired by Phillis Wheatley
As a literary prodigy, Wheatley showed the world that Black creativity is a powerhouse.
The Modern Money Move: Value your intellectual property. In 2026, content is currency. If you’re a creator, protect your work. If you’re a consumer, wear the message. Our graphic tees and sweatshirts are more than fashion: they are wearable manifestos of Black brilliance.
3. The Champion’s Defense: Inspired by Muhammad Ali
Ali was the Greatest because he fought for something bigger than a belt. He fought for his people.
The Modern Money Move: Build an "Impact Fund." Set aside a small percentage of your monthly budget for community support. At Black Wall Streets, a portion of every vendor sale goes toward scholarships and special emergencies. You buy, we build. It’s that simple.
4. The Debt-Free Blueprint: Inspired by Anthony O’Neal
Anthony has changed the game by showing us that debt is a shackle to our ancestors' wildest dreams.
The Modern Money Move: Attack your high-interest debt with "The Table" mentality. Before you level up your lifestyle, level up your stability. Once you're debt-free, your ability to Buyblack and sustain Black-owned businesses triples.
5. Tech Literacy for the Win: Inspired by Kimberly Bryant
The founder of Black Girls CODE reminds us that if we aren’t at the table of technology, we’re on the menu.
The Modern Money Move: Future-proof your family. Enroll the young ones in coding or STEM programs. Wealth in 2026 isn't just in land; it's in the cloud. We proudly support youth organizations that bridge the digital divide.
6. Strategic Allocation: Inspired by Robert F. Smith
As a titan of private equity, Smith knows that how we move capital defines our power.
The Modern Money Move: Diversify your portfolio. While you’re investing in the S&P 500, don't forget to invest in the "BWS 500": the hundreds of Black entrepreneurs on our marketplace. Moving your "everyday spend" to Black-owned brands is the most strategic move you can make.
7. The Freedom Guide: Inspired by Paris Woods
Paris teaches us that financial freedom isn't a destination; it's a series of intentional choices.
The Modern Money Move: Automate your "Buyblack" habit. Instead of mindlessly scrolling generic retail giants, make Blackwallstreets.store your homepage. Whether it’s luxury candles like our Palais Royale or everyday jewelry and accessories, make it automatic.
8. Community Commerce: Inspired by Teri Hamm
Through Kindred Stories, Teri proved that a business can be the heartbeat of a neighborhood.
The Modern Money Move: Be a "Power Patron." Don't just shop; leave a review, share the link, and bring a friend. Community commerce is about the ecosystem. When you support a vendor on our platform, you’re helping a real family pay for mortgage, tuition, and dreams.
9. Economic Justice: Inspired by Letitia James
The New York Attorney General reminds us that wealth without accountability is fragile.
The Modern Money Move: Support businesses that support justice. Shop with platforms that have a transparent mission. Our owner, Sterling Reed, built this platform to ensure that Black commerce has a "Redemption Bank" to fall back on during emergencies.
10. Building the Digital District: Inspired by Sterling Reed
Our founder didn't just want a shop; he wanted a "Digital Black Wall Street" that couldn't be torn down.
The Modern Money Move: Become a stakeholder in the movement. Whether you’re a shopper looking for quality or an entrepreneur looking for a vendor marketplace that actually cares about your growth, you belong here.
Why "Buyblack" Matters Right Now
In 2026, the global economy is shifting. We see the rise of niche marketplaces and the importance of "values-based" shopping. But for us, #Buyblack has always been the standard, not the trend.
When you purchase a Chérie Amour candle or a Motivational Graphic Tee from our store, you are participating in a cycle of wealth. That money stays in the community longer. It funds the next child prodigy. It supports the elder entrepreneur who is finally getting their flowers. It builds the schools, the homes, and the futures we were always meant to have.
Your next money move?
Head over to the Black Wall Streets Marketplace today. Explore our curated collections, meet our vendors, and let’s turn these "moves" into a movement.
Stay empowered, stay invested, and keep building.
