‘Afro Unicorn’ CEO discusses becoming first Black-owned, woman-founded business to sell a licensed character brand in major retail

April Showers embodies a rare blend of kindness and passion, often likened to the mythical essence of a unicorn by a friend years ago. Reflecting on this comparison, she recalls the challenging period in her life that ignited a movement reaching women and children worldwide.

As a single mother of two and an entrepreneur since her teenage years, Showers grappled with imposter syndrome, prompting her to create a brand that resonated with individuals facing similar struggles. Balancing the demands of parenthood, business ownership, and family obligations, she sought to alleviate the sense of isolation experienced during life’s trials.

Driven by the desire to empower others, Showers embarked on a mission to symbolize resilience through her brand. Initially inspired by her own journey, she commissioned an illustrator to craft a more inclusive unicorn emoji, reflecting the diversity of her community.

From its inception as a direct-to-consumer e-commerce venture in 2019, Afro Unicorn® has evolved into a comprehensive brand spanning over 25 categories.