and this is the story behind Diversity Beans
It All Started With a Picky Toddler...
Born from an innovative parent's frustration with their child's boycott of all green foods, the random color/flavor combinations of our jelly beans proved to be a great tool for something more than expanding toddlers palates: Fostering meaningful dialogues on bias.
Driven by Diversity
When I first learned about Diversity Beans, I was a military spouse (and veteran myself), entrepreneur, and mom to two little girls. Estranged from my parents following my interracial relationship, I knew all too well the devastating effects of prejudice and recognized Diversity Beans' potential as a tool for positive change.
Years earlier (2001), I founded the ecommerce brand iCelebrateDiversity, with the mission to find products that reflected diversity and encouraged inclusivity. Adding Diversity Beans was a natural fit, and in 2011, I acquired the company.
An Unconventional Icebreaker
Over 15 million assumptions have been challenged with Diversity Beans. Across the spectrum, from entertainment giant Disney to retail titan Target and beverage leader Pepsi, our innovative delivery method and thought-provoking message have resonated deeply. Whether in the classroom, community, or office setting, Diversity Beans have become a beloved and impactful tool, sparking conversations and fostering inclusion wherever they go.
A Pictorial Timeline
My blended life and entrepreneurial journey.
(young and naive) 1987
(eyes opened to the lack of products reflecting diversity) 1991
(launched ecommerce brand focused on inclusivity) (those dresses! ❤) 2001
(and another amazing dress! ❤) 2003
(Highest enlisted rank attained by just 1%. Of those, only 6% are black) 2005
(and Jelly "the Bean") 2005
2011
(10,000 LBS) 2012
(and the creation of this .com) 2020