| LOS ANGELES, CA — February 11, 2026 — Grounded in BET’s core pillars of community, culture, and connection, BET today announced the launch of its new original three-episode docu-series, “Minding Our Black-Owned Business,” a digital initiative celebrating the innovation and influence of Black entrepreneurship nationwide. Premiering Thursday, February 12, the series introduces audiences to founders whose work is shaping industries and strengthening communities. “Minding Our Black-Owned Business” is a culture-forward digital docu-series hosted by COOO ArTY that spotlights the brilliance, resilience, and impact of Black entrepreneurship across the country. Each episode blends storytelling, business insight, and cultural context—celebrating not just what these founders build, but why it matters.
Episode 101 — Savoir Faire Mobile Cigar Lounge — Thursday, February 12
In this episode, we head to New Rochelle, New York to meet Kelley Hardwick, founder of Savoir Faire Mobile Cigar Lounge—a Black female-owned, luxury mobile cigar experience redefining sophistication on wheels. What began as a passion for curated cigar culture has evolved into a high-end, on-the-go lounge bringing elegance, education, and elevated vibes directly to clients wherever they are. From intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations, Savoir Faire is expanding access to premium cigar experiences while creating space for women to lead in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Business Owner: Kelley Hardwick
Business: Savoir Faire Mobile Cigar Lounge/ cigarsavoirfaire.com
Location: New Rochelle, New York (available for travel)
Social: @CigarSavoirFaire @topflight_misskelley
Episode 102 – Pearl Lee’s Washtub LaundroBar — Thursday, February 19
In this episode, we head to Brooklyn, New York to meet Theo Dupree, founder of Pearl Lee’s Washtub—a Black-owned LaundroBar blending everyday necessity with community, culture, and nightlife. What began as a bold reimagining of the neighborhood laundromat has evolved into a one-of-a-kind space where clean clothes meet curated drinks, music, and connection. By transforming an ordinary routine into a social experience, Pearl Lee’s Washtub is redefining how Black-owned businesses create gathering spaces that serve both function and vibe.
Business Owner: Theo Dupree
Business: Sia Collective
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Social: @Pearl_Less_Washtub
Episode 103 — Sia Collective Luxury Sneakers — Thursday, February 26
In this episode, we head to Oakland, California to meet the visionary behind SIA Collective—a luxury sneaker and fashion brand built on culture, community, and purpose. What started as custom sneakers and late nights has grown into a multimillion-dollar, direct-to-consumer brand redefining what Black ownership looks like in fashion.
Business Owner: Devlin Carter
Business: Sia Collective/ Website: https://siacollective.com
Location: Oakland, California
Social: @Sia_Collective (559K IG)
ABOUT BET MEDIA GROUP
The BET Media Group, a unit of Paramount (NASDAQ: PARAA; PARA; PARAP), is the world’s largest media company rooted in community, culture, and connection for the Black community. For over four decades, BET has served as a trusted home for Black audiences, amplifying authentic stories, elevating Black voices, and creating spaces where culture thrives and community comes together.
Through a powerful portfolio of brands including BET, BET+, BET Gospel, BET HER, BET International, BET Jams, BET Soul, BET Studios, and VH1, BET connects audiences across cable, streaming, digital, live events, studios, and global platforms, delivering culturally resonant content that reflects the depth, creativity, and impact of the Black experience.
For more information about BET, visit www.bet.com and follow @BET on social platforms. |
