Clothing With a Cause: Tangia Seward’s Impact on Mental Health and Community

Black Girl Hug, is an apparel brand with affirmational quotes geared towards mental health and Black women. Tangia Seward founded the brand after losing a niece who had been struggling with mental health issues and seeing how the pandemic exacerbated feelings of isolation for so many others. The name “Black Girl Hug” comes from the shared experience of Black women. Tangia decided she wanted to share her journey, help spread light, and empower and encourage women. The brand donates 15% of sales to entrepreneurs offering mental health services. 

Tangia started by marketing the brand through social media. Within the first year, her social media grew to over five thousand followers, and she realized that the brand resonated with women of all races and backgrounds. Tangia connected to SHE Event Indy, which provides a platform for Black-owned businesses to increase their customers and revenue, learn sound business practices, build relationships, and foster positive impacts within the community. 

Through SHE Event Indy, Tangia was connected to the Central Indiana Women’s Business Center (CIWBC), which partners with SHE Event Indy to connect entrepreneurs to business coaching, networking opportunities, and access to capital. The CIWBC assisted Black Girl Hug with becoming a member of the Indy Chamber and invited her to be a vendor at their signature event – the Women in Business Retreat. 

Although this would be her first time being a vendor for her business, Tangia jumped at the opportunity and had “an amazing experience!” It helped her gain a newfound confidence in herself as an entrepreneur and make new connections. Most importantly, she generated enough revenue during the retreat to sustain her business needs for months to come. 

“Women know how to speak to other women’s experiences,” says Tangia. “My advice to new entrepreneurs is to put yourself around people who fan your flames and help you grow. Take advantage of new opportunities and move outside of your comfort zone. That’s where the best growth happens!” 

To learn more about Black Girl Hug, visit www.blackgirlhug.com.