Princess Sofia

Black Beauty - Anika Noni Rose aka Princess Tiana

Hello Princess.

When I was growing up there really weren’t many images and mass merchandising items for Black girls.

Thank goodness times of changed, welcome Brand Princess Tiana.

Yes, you might remember Black Barbie (Christy) and Cher (well, she was Indian) but in 2010 our daughters can wear a Princess Tiana outfit – pants, dress, shirt, gown, underwear and hat and be a walking billboard for all that is possible. How empowering!

Brand Tiana represents talent, humility, strength, power, tenacity, mucho melanin and all things possible.

For many of us who have grappled with having it all seeing fairy tales come to life is the biggest adrenaline shot. I mean did you ever think you would see a Black Princess produced and marketed by Walt Disney Films? I didn’t.

For me the images and pages of Ebony, Essence, and Seventeen (remember Whitney Houston?) provided me with role models, fashion guidance and aspirations at 13.

My daughter, is 3, and she proudly wears her Princess gear to school, play dates, parties — how far we have come when our children can believe and act like royalty at an early age.

Brand Princess Tiana aka Anika Noni Rose is redefining what it means to be Black, Beautiful and Understood in 2010.  Thank you sister for empowering our little ones.

Brand Tiana has proven what we always tell our kids – all is possible if you work hard and follow your passion – keep in mind – individuality is key; aim for the stars; act entitled (in a good way); diversify your circles; accept your beauty (flaws and all); and, remember, our kids will emulate all our craziness?