Why We’re Proud of Beyoncé Promoting Our Work - And Why It’s About More Than Just Celebration

When Beyoncé, through the visionary work of Zerina Akers and Black Owned Everything, recognized Lookslike Avido in her Black-Owned Business Directory, we were deeply honored. It was a proud, humbling moment. But for us and many like us - moments like this are more than a celebration. They’re also reminders.
Reminders of the journey.
Reminders of the struggle.
Reminders of what it takes to be seen.
Yes, we’re proud. Incredibly so. But our pride exists alongside the reality that recognition like this is rare for Black-owned businesses, especially those rooted in underserved, overlooked communities like Kibera in Nairobi.

We can’t just celebrate without acknowledging why this visibility matters so much - and what it says about the world we live in.

Recognition Is Powerful - But It Shouldn’t Be Rare
For years, David Avido and the Lookslike Avido team have poured everything into building something real - a fashion brand that empowers youth, nurtures talent, and flips stereotypes on their heads. 
We’ve created beauty and opportunity in a place many once dismissed as impossible.

Beyoncé’s recognition affirms that this work is not only valid - it's vital. 
But the truth is: work like ours sometimes goes unseen unless it is endorsed by someone globally influential. 
That’s a reality many Black creators and entrepreneurs understand too well.
So yes, we’re proud - but we’re also reflective.

Visibility Doesn’t Solve Inequality - But It Opens Doors

Inclusion in Beyoncé’s directory opens a door. It brings a wave of attention, opportunity, and potential partnerships. 
But it doesn’t erase the barriers we still face. In Kenya, inequality shows up in the form of structural neglect, class bias, and limited access. In other places, it looks different but it’s just as real.
We don’t just celebrate this moment.
We use it.
To challenge narratives.
To push for sustained change.
To remind people that the most powerful ideas don’t only come from the center but they rise from the margins.

Beyond the Label: Purpose, Not Just Pride

We are proud to be a Black-owned business but our identity goes beyond the label. 
We are a purpose-led, community-rooted movement committed to reimagining what's possible. Our pride comes with responsibility: to keep showing up, to keep speaking out, and to keep building pathways for others.
As David Avido says:
"We don’t accept the limits others place on us. We use creativity to turn barriers into bridges and challenges into change. 
We are rewriting the narrative not just for ourselves, but for the next generation.”

So Yes, We’re Celebrating But We’re Also Calling In
We celebrate Beyoncé and Zerina Akers not just for seeing us, but for choosing to amplify us. That kind of platform shifts possibilities not just for Lookslike Avido, but for every youth who sees themselves reflected in our journey.
But let’s also stay grounded in why this recognition matters and why we must keep pushing.
Because celebration without reflection fades.
But celebration with purpose? That creates momentum.
Let’s keep building. Let’s stay visible. Let’s move forward together.

By David Avido