In Fellowship
On September 6, 2024, I got an email that made my heart skip several beats:
💌 “It is with great excitement that we congratulate you on being selected as a participant in the 3rd National Cohort of Naturally Network's Minority-Owned Fellowship Program powered by NIQ! Out of approximately 80 brands, you stood out, earning one of the coveted 16 spots available.”
I literally leaped out of my skin when I read it—because this was BIG! It has been 6 months of what I can only describe as an intensive yet beautifully paced “CPG University”—a deep dive into branding, marketing, positioning, data, finance, investing, pitching and everything else a CPG founder needs to thrive. But beyond the knowledge, it has been about community—building bonds with fellow founders who understand the highs and lows of this wild, competitive industry. In Yoruba land, we say you can't sweep with a single broomstick, it takes the whole bunch to get the job done.
We have laughed together, cried together, shared intel with one another...
And now, our fellowship all comes together in the most spectacular way—our grand finale at Expo West! A brilliant mentor matching and a specially curated showcase—our very own 'CPG Prom', where we meet industry buyers and partners who can help take our brands to the next level.
💛 My heart is full of so much gratitude to. 💛
🌟 Sarah Mix at CBX. A BRAND AGENCY —you nudged me to apply, and I will am so grateful.
🌟 Olowo-n'djo Tchala of Ayéya—my mentor and West African brother, cheering me on…telling me I got you!
🌟 The phenomenal MO team— Katrina Tolentino The ED Naturally Network and the literal Queen Mother who birthed this Fellowship and Olivia Sullivan our rockstar you are angels. God bless you always.
🌟 Chris Robb —your words, your insights at Happy Hour yesterday brought me to tears. Thank you for making me feel safe, seen, and empowered.
🌟 And to my incredible Fellow Fellows: —this journey would not have been the same without you. You inspire me every day! Palita Sriratana for securing our gorgeous AirBnB with a spectacular view, Regina Brewton my rib cracker conference buddy. Dharti J. my beloved roomie, Stephanie Berwick my absolute inspiration. I love you guys so much.
Our special showcase is TODAY, Come discover the latest innovation in CPG.
March 6th, California Ballroom D, The Hilton Anaheim from 9 AM - 11 AM.
Details are in the flyer—come see us shine!
With Love & Coconuts
Kokari.
MO Fellows 2025.
Bake Me Healthy | Kimberle Lau
BEJOU | Carolina Lopez
Cactus Foods | Diana Gonzalez
edggies | Veronica Panzardi
Força Foods LLC | Guilherme Maia Silva
Gourmais® | Stephanie Chui
Kokari Coconuts & Company | Ebun Feludu
Koshna | Dharti J.
Melati Drinks | Lorin Winata
Norbor Beauty | Joel Carter
Pastazerts | Stephanie Berwick
Pink Salt Kitchens | Palita Sriratana
Projo* | Charbel Mawad
Senor Mango | Daniela Wong
Sibahle Teas | Regina Brewton
The Spice Theory |Corrie A Amos, MD
RSVP here: https://lnkd.in/gPfMkSAR