Barclays Black Founder Accelerator 2022 member
ToyoWrites

TW is a global art decor business, that supplies homes and services with modern and trendy art prints and canvases.
The brand has been hosted in popups in luxury locations e.g John Lewis, Boots, HSBC and more. There are customisable designs available and artists are also able to apply to host their artwork on the platform.
Why did you join the Barclays Black Founder Accelerator?
I joined because I see lasting legacy and great impact in what this programme provides. I'm ready to learn and also keen t add value to a programme like this that is also affiliated with a global brand like Barclays.
Why did you want to start your business?
I left my stable corporate job end of 2019. To start an art decor & affirmations business because I found there was not enough affirmation based art uplifting people. I am a champion of wellbeing and before starting this business, I had a very difficult breakup which I nearly didn't recover from. I put my heart and soul into my art and started to sell it online.
What would be your desired outcome from this programme?
Funding opportunities to further scale the business and leadership development as a founder and CEO with a growing team. Networking with other great minds, sharing knowledge and cultivating community.
Which entrepreneur inspires you the most and why?
Patricia Bright, because she has a similar corporate background and then turned her knowledge and creativity into a powerhouse that feeds her growing family and inspires millions of people. She has a similar nationality as me and a bubbly personality that is relatable but she also works with consistency and shows that black women can and will break the glass ceiling using talent and skill to do so.
What has been your biggest win in your entrepreneurial journey?
Being commissioned by Meagan Good in under 2 months of starting a business in a global pandemic. Selling to actors in Hollywood as a result who have starred in the hit series Empire.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Sourcing funding as a black owned business to further grow in a white dominated market.
Where did you go for business advice and how did it help you?
Ebay and BGF founders programme was great as it taught the fundamentals of e-commerce growth and opened the doors to a network of women who have experience in the business world.
What drives you to make your business a success?
The feedback I get from customers who my affirmations resonate with and my art impacts. People have cried in my arms at popups, people have sent messages about how I helped them get through mentally challenging life experiences. People who I give opportunity to through the brand and it's growing team.
What advice would you give other founders thinking about starting their own business?
Consistency, Faith/Self belief and strong circle of supporters can take you further than your dreams can imagine. Start now and start with what you have.