August marks Black-Owned Business Month—a powerful time to recognize, support, and celebrate the entrepreneurs whose talent and tenacity help shape Kern County’s culture and economy. From soulful eats and curated boutiques to wellness clinics and creative services, these businesses aren’t just open—they’re opening doors. We asked readers of Kern County Family Magazine to share some of their favorites—and they delivered. We hope you’ll visit one or all of these businesses listed:

Services

• ShePower – Nonprofit organization that empowers women and girls through mentorship and leadership development. https://www.shepoweracademy.org/
• Frye Plumbing – Offers a wide range of affordable and convenient plumbing services for residential and commercial clients. https://www.facebook.com/FryePlumbing/
• Tel-Tec Security Systems - A full-service security company offering a wide range of customized security solutions for both residential and commercial clients. https://www.tel-tec.com/
• Engineering for Kids Kern – STEM.org Accredited and Cognia Certified, providing a wide range of STEM enrichment programs for children Pre-k to Middle School. https://www.engineeringforkids.com/bakersfield
• The Nest & Company - Clinic offering support, education, and wellness services for pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenthood. https://thenestandco.com/

Food & Dining

• Soul Sister House of Soul – Southern comfort food with heart. https://www.facebook.com/soulsisterbakersfield/
• Suga Shack – Sundaes, coffee, and community vibes. https://www.instagram.com/lovesugashack/
• Handle’s Ice Cream – Over 100 flavors of rich, homemade ice cream and sherbets. https://handelsicecream.com/store/bakersfield/
• Wing Stop – Saucy or dry-rubbed wings, crispy tenders, seasoned fries, and dips. https://www.wingstop.com/
• Bentley Bowl – California-infused soul food bowls, rubs, drinks, and desserts. https://www.bentleybowl.com/
• Mom’s House – Southern-style comfort food like oxtails, catfish, ribs, and waffles. https://momshousechickenandwaffles.com/
• Beck’s Divine Cakes – Custom cakes, cupcakes, and pies with old-fashioned flavor and flair. https://www.instagram.com/becksdivinecakes/

Beauty & Wellness

• Beauty Connections – Black-owned beauty and hair supply store. https://www.beautycbako.com/
• GloSthetics Beauty Lounge – Cosmetics, waxing, and skincare. https://www.instagram.com/glosthetics_beauty_lounge/
• Innovations Salon N Spa – Hair extensions and styling. https://www.solasalonstudios.com/salon-professional/iyenemi-irene1
• DaliMay Massage – Massage therapy and hydrotherapy. https://www.massagebook.com/therapists/DaliMayMassage
• The Wellness Water – IV hydration and wellness services. https://www.thewellnesswaterinc.com/




PHOTO BY LJ RADON

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Tayndra and Mack Hunter: Sparking STEM Dreams Through Engineering for Kids

Since launching in November 2014, educator Tayndra Hunter has always had a clear vision: bring meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities to children—beyond just sports. In her community, she noticed a lack of engaging, educational programs for kids under age 20. Drawn to the child-centered focus of Engineering for Kids, Tayndra and her husband Mack bought into what she calls "the greatest engineering franchise worldwide." Their mission? Inspire young minds by introducing STEM concepts early, well before college. Through exciting challenges and playful innovation, they’re showing kids that the journey into science and engineering can—and should—begin now.

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Black-Owned  Community-Grown

The Bakersfield Black Dollar Initiative (BBDI), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Black-owned businesses in Bakersfield, says they feature 386 businesses locally and regionally in their online directory. This directory is a non-profit effort to promote and connect Black-owned businesses in the community.

Learn more about BBDI and local Black-owned businesses at https://blackbusinessdollar.org/

FACT: According to the 2023 Annual Business Survey (ABS), about 3% of U.S. businesses were Black or African American-owned (both employer & non-employer) and Minority-owned businesses accounted for 36.7% of all non-employer businesses in the U.S. (those without paid employees).

Learn more at https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/abs.html

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