Artist and entrepreneur Nate Couser, founder of VashtiBlue Jewelry and The Artist Exchange, uses fashion, jewelry, and teaching to honor and preserve Black culture through creative expression. Through deeply personal and spiritual artwork, Couser creates wearable pieces that tell stories and celebrate individuality, while advocating for the proper teaching and representation of Black art history.
Category: Baltimore News
Posted inBaltimore News
Baltimore shipping channel reopened after explosion on cargo ship near site of 2024 bridge collapse
A coal-laden cargo ship departing Baltimore’s harbor exploded near the site of the 2024 Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, prompting a temporary closure of the shipping channel on Aug. 19. No injuries were reported, and the channel has since reopened as investigators work to determine the cause of the blast.
Posted inBaltimore News
Charm City is farm city: How Baltimore’s urban farms might be the best weapon against rising food costs
Baltimore’s network of 40 urban farms and 60 community gardens is helping residents cope with rising grocery costs by providing affordable—or often free—fresh produce in neighborhoods with limited healthy food options. Rooted in a century-old tradition and strengthened by decades of city policy, these farms not only feed communities but also foster job skills, entrepreneurship and social connection.
Posted inBUSINESS
From vision to venture: Founders building with heart and hustle
Black business ownership is on the rise, with entrepreneurs like Anissa Truitt, Christina Sledge and Ceal Starks transforming personal missions into purpose-driven, community-centered ventures.
Posted inBaltimore News
Abell Foundation names Fagan Harris as new president and CEO
Fagan Harris, chief of staff to Governor Wes Moore, has been named the next president and CEO of the Abell Foundation. He will assume the role Jan. 5, 2026, becoming only the second leader in the foundation’s history after Robert C. Embry Jr., who served nearly 40 years.
Posted inBUSINESS
Innovation with intention: The power and diversity of Black-owned ventures
Black entrepreneurs across industries are redefining success by centering community, innovation and purpose. From holistic health to tech accelerators to campus digital transformation, these leaders are proving that entrepreneurship in the Black community is as diverse as it is resilient.
Posted inBaltimore News
Black families push past barriers to save lives through swimming and water safety
Barriers like cost, access, and generational fear continue to prevent many Black youth from learning how to swim, contributing to a disproportionately high rate of drowning deaths. Through programs like Baltimore’s 4M Swim Club, families are working to change the narrative—embracing water safety, building confidence, and developing a new generation of Black swimmers and lifeguards.
Posted inAfro Briefs
Featherstone Foundation honors exceptional students awarding $63,000 in college scholarships
The Featherstone Foundation awarded $63,000 in scholarships to Baltimore’s next generation of leaders and presented the inaugural Featherstone Historic Achievement Award to West Muhammad, the youngest freshman ever enrolled at Coppin State University, and the 2025 Featherstone Changemaker Award to Emmy® Award-winning executive producer Travis E. Mitchell.
Posted inBaltimore News
Young Successful Leaders Incorporated to Receive $50,000 Huddle Up for Health Grant from CareFirst and Baltimore Ravens
CareFirst and the Baltimore Ravens have awarded Young Successful Leaders Inc. (YSLI) a $50,000 grant to expand its mental health, violence prevention and youth development programs in Baltimore.
Posted inBaltimore News
Baltimore sees progress on gun violence
Baltimore’s recent drop in gun violence, including a record-low number of homicides in April, signals progress driven by focused intervention strategies like the Group Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS). Experts warn, however, that cuts to federal funding and growing online threats could undermine fragile gains. Leaders are calling for sustained investment, youth engagement and statewide collaboration to keep the momentum going.
Posted inBaltimore News
​​Three key tips for newspapers to thrive for the next 100 years
AFRO leaders share three key tips for Black newspapers to thrive: balancing legacy, innovation, and engagement with younger generations amid industry challenges.
Posted in!Front Page Baltimore News
Ink, identity, and influence: The AFRO’s ongoing legacy
The AFRO has long been a vital voice for the Black community, shining a light on issues often neglected by mainstream media. As it nears its 133rd anniversary, the newspaper continues its mission to confront injustice and amplify Black voices in a changing political landscape.