TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Terre Haute’s economy is continuing to grow. Along with its growth, more Black owned businesses are emerging.
Mama D’s
Mama D’s restaurant on Wabash Avenue is one of them. Thy serve food such as catfish, wings, and gyros.
The restaurant’s owner, Yousif Raheem, is a Terre Haute native who wanted to create opportunity in the place he calls home.
He noted that his inspiration is rapper Nipsey Hussle. Hussle owned businesses in hometown of Crenshaw in Los Angeles. In 2019, Hussle was killed in front of his store. Before his untimely death, Yousif had the chance to meet him.
“I was really inspired by him and things he was doing for his community. And figured I had something to offer here,” Yousif said.
In 2020, Mama D’s opened its doors.
According to Yousif, a big part of running his business is setting an example for young people in Terre Haute. Especially his nephews and other family friends who work in the restaurant.
You can find the menu and other information on Mama D’s here.
In Time Creative Counseling Services
Another Black business owner paving the way in the Terre Haute community is Theresa White.
White founded In Time Creative Counseling Services in 2019, where she provides mental health counseling.
She said for her, it was important for other Black people to see that they are represented in the mental space.
“We need our voices heard. We’ve seen a lot in the last year of how we can get overlooked and not have the same rights as others. So want to create that safe space,” White said.
You can connect with Theresa and learn more about her practice here.
Whit and Wil Marketing
Andre Whittaker and Dallas Wilson are the owners of Whit and Wil Marketing.
Whittaker and Wilson first started as co-workers before becoming business partners. They each learned that they had similar goals, as well as related skills and passions that could lead to success.
They work to link bigger businesses in the area, like Saratoga and the Terre Haute Children’s Museum to the younger population.
They also help businesses, non-profits and other clients with brand identity among other services.
As the duo’s brand continues to grow, they said it’s important for them to light the way for other Black entrepreneurs.
“It’s great being Black, a Black male in a leadership role. Because it’s an experience in which not many people can illustrate to you,” said Dallas Wilson.
You can learn more about Whit and Wil Marketing’s services by clicking here.
