BLACK IN THE VALLEY

Black In The Valley serves as a resource hub for Black businesses, cultural events and general information for the Black community in the San Fernando Valley.

California has the 5th largest economy in the world. Surpassing France, Italy and the UK. The San Fernando Valley is home to 1.8 million people with 4 percent of its make up being Black. This equates to a tremendous amount of Black buying power located in the San Fernando Valley. However finding Black owned and operated businesses can be complicated. There was a need to find these businesses and make them known to the public. Thereby the creation of Black In The Valley. Started as a Facebook group, Black In The Valley serves as a resource hub for Black business,

events and general information for the Black community in the San Fernando Valley. Our directory will give you a comprehensive look at Black owned businesses offered in the Valley. Founded during the pandemic of 2020, Black In The Valley is the perfect vehicle for support during these demanding times. Whether it be promotion of an event, business or social engagement, Black In The Valley is the hub for you. Black In The Valley is funded and under the umbrella of Zawadi Cultural Collective. A nonprofit organization operating in the San Fernando Valley.

Year at a Glance

Black In The Valley and Zawadi Cultural Collective have a full calendar of events planned to the 25/26 fiscal year. Here's a list of our upcoming programs:

Zawadi Food Distribution
Every Saturday
10am - 12pm
(While supplies last)
Each week, Zawadi Cultural Collective provides healthy, nutritious food to individuals and families in need throughout the community. Our distribution includes fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, dairy products, breads, and a variety of prepackaged and frozen goods. Through this effort, we aim to reduce food insecurity, promote wellness, and ensure that every family has access to balanced, nourishing meals.

Black Business Scavenger Hunt
February 28, 2026
Start time 12pm
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with Zawadi Cultural Collective’s Black Business Scavenger Hunt — a fun, interactive competition that takes you all across the San Fernando Valley! Using a series of clever clues, teams will race to discover local Black-owned businesses, snapping selfies, performing jingles, and completing creative challenges along the way. Whether you’re teaming up with family, friends, co-workers, or collaborators, you’ll enjoy a day full of laughter, surprises, and community spirit — all for the chance to win a cash prize! Celebrate unity, creativity, and local entrepreneurship in this exciting day of discovery and fun. Click the link below to register for the hunt.

Women's History Month Tea
March 8, 2026
2pm - 5pm
Join Zawadi Cultural Collective for a beautiful celebration of womanhood during Women’s History Month. This uplifting event honors local women for their outstanding leadership, achievements, and contributions to the community. Guests will enjoy an afternoon of inspiration, connection, and empowerment while savoring a delightful tea tasting and light brunch. Together, we celebrate the strength, grace, and brilliance of women who continue to lead and inspire change.

Youth Community Service Day
April 18, 2026
9am - 11:30am
Zawadi Cultural Collective invites all youth and teens to take part in Youth Community Service Day — a meaningful opportunity to give back and make a difference. Volunteers will join our weekly Food Distribution, helping to fight food insecurity by providing fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy to families in need. Together, we’re building compassion, leadership, and a stronger, healthier community — one act of service at a time.

Kidprenuer Business Academy
May 9, 2026
12pm - 5pm
Zawadi Cultural Collective presents the Kidpreneur Business Academy, a dynamic 5-hour program designed to spark the entrepreneurial spirit in today’s youth. Geared for ages 10–18, participants will learn how to turn their ideas into real businesses by developing concepts, structures, and strategies for success. Guided by a team of experienced mentors from diverse professional backgrounds, youth will explore business planning, product development, marketing, and more — gaining the tools and confidence to bring their vision to life.

Zawadi Prom
June 12, 2026
8pm - 12am

The Zawadi Prom is a festive social celebration honoring the accomplishments of high school juniors and seniors. This special event gives youth the chance to celebrate with their peers in a fun, safe, and uplifting environment. Featuring a celebrity host, exciting giveaways, and a scholarship component, the Zawadi Prom recognizes achievement while creating lasting memories for the next generation of leaders.

9th Annual Juneteenth Community Celebration
June 20, 2026
1p - 6p
Our 8th annual Juneteenth Celebration. Bring a blanket, your lawn chairs and the family for a celebration "family reunion" style. Enjoy performers and music while shopping at one of over 100 vendors at our marketplace. Grab you something to eat from one of our food vendors or participate in one of our interactive games. We will be honoring our community leaders, volunteers and student graduates. It’s a day of fun that you wouldn't want to miss.

Stay tuned to this site for more information about these and other events sponsored by Zawadi Cultural Collective.

Admin

SHANIA ACCIUS

A community activist, actress, mother and creator/administrator of Black In The Valley. She's a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and leader of an all Black girl scout troop, Zawadi Troop 3246. Her nonprofit, Zawadi Cultural Collective focuses on uplifting the underserved Black community in the valley. She started Black In The Valley as a resource hub for all things black in the San Fernando Valley.

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