Today we’d like to introduce you to Kazemde Ajamu
Hi Kazemde, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve always been deeply invested in my community’s empowerment. Growing up during the Civil Rights and Black Power movements, I witnessed firsthand the struggles and triumphs of Black people in America. This foundational experience laid the groundwork for much of my work today.
My journey started with a passion for education, culture, and community building. Over the years, I became increasingly involved in leadership roles that allowed me to merge those passions with practical initiatives. I founded Black Dot Cultural Center & Bookstore to create a space where the rich history, culture, and knowledge of the Black community could be celebrated and shared. The center is more than just a bookstore—it’s a cultural hub for education, activism, and community engagement.
As my work evolved, I also recognized the importance of developing leadership skills in younger generations, which led me to establish the Black Dot Cultural Center & Leadership Academy, a nonprofit dedicated to training and inspiring the next wave of leaders in our community. The academy provides mentorship, educational opportunities, and the skills necessary to affect positive change.
Throughout this journey, I’ve also worked on various initiatives promoting civic engagement and addressing our communities’ issues. From running the Urban Politician Alliance and Show to managing significant events for local governments, I have always focused on uplifting Black voices and creating pathways to success for those often overlooked.
The lessons I’ve learned along the way—from running a bookstore and nonprofit to hosting a podcast and producing events—have been a testament to the power of collaboration, hard work, and staying true to my mission of service and empowerment. The Black Dot is a reflection of all that I’ve learned and all that I believe we, as a community, can accomplish together.
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Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. When I started Black Dot Cultural Center & Bookstore in 2017, I was determined to create a space that celebrated Black culture and history, but the challenges were immediate. Securing financial resources for the center and keeping it operational has always been a struggle, particularly in an environment where big brands like Amazon dominate. Competing against these giants, while also driving revenue, is a constant battle. Despite having both in-store and online capabilities for book purchases, the struggle to attract customers who are used to the convenience of large retailers is real.
In 2020, we expanded our vision by adding a coffee bar to the center, allowing us to engage the community further and diversify our revenue streams. However, expanding also came with its challenges. It requires financial investments and a lot of emotional energy to ensure that everything runs smoothly, especially during unpredictable times.
The emotional and mental toll of this work can also be taxing. When you’re on the front lines of activism, education, and leadership development, it can feel like an uphill battle at times, especially when you see the struggles of your people firsthand. But then I know the impact we’re having in the community—whether through the academy, the cultural center, or the podcast—and I’m reminded that this work, no matter how difficult, is vital.
Ultimately, the journey has been full of challenges, but each struggle has only deepened my commitment to the work. I’ve learned that persistence, adaptability, and staying true to one’s purpose are key to navigating the road ahead.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The Black Dot Cultural Center & Bookstore is more than just a bookstore—it’s a space where culture, education, and community come together. Founded in 2017, our mission is to provide a space that celebrates and amplifies Black people’s voices, stories, and history. From our wide selection of books that reflect the richness of the African diaspora, to the cultural events, educational workshops, and leadership development programs we offer, we aim to foster a sense of pride and empowerment within our community.
In addition to being a hub for literature, we are known for our commitment to creating an environment that encourages dialogue and learning around social justice, civic engagement, and cultural identity. Our bookstore offers both in-store and online book purchases, which makes it easy for people near and far to access works that center the Black experience. But what sets us apart is our holistic approach to community building. In 2020, we expanded our space by adding a coffee bar to foster a more welcoming and interactive atmosphere. It’s more than just a place to grab a coffee; it’s a place to connect with others, have meaningful conversations, and build relationships.
What I’m most proud of is our impact on individuals and families, primarily through our nonprofit arm, the Black Dot Cultural Center & Leadership Academy. We provide mentorship, leadership training, and educational opportunities to the next generation of leaders. It’s incredible to see our students grow, develop, and go on to make a difference in their communities. This combination of cultural preservation, education, and empowerment is what truly sets us apart.
Our commitment to authentic community engagement is at the heart of everything we do. Our brand is built on the idea that we are stronger, smarter, and more equipped to make lasting change when we come together. Whether through the books we sell, the events we host, or the youth we mentor, we want everyone to know that Black Dot is a place of growth, empowerment, and transformation. We’re here to elevate, celebrate, and support Black culture—today and for future generations.
How do you think about happiness?
What makes me happiest is seeing the Black Dot Cultural Center’s positive impact on people’s lives. Whether it’s a customer discovering a new book that resonates with them, a young person from our Leadership Academy achieving a personal milestone, or someone leaving our space feeling more connected to their culture and community, those moments remind me why I do this work.
One story that always sticks with me is about a young man who’s been coming to Black Dot since he was 13. Back then, he and his friends would come in to use the internet to play video games on their phones. I would make them read 3-4 pages of a book before they could play. Now, at 19, he’s working at Atlanta Hartsfield Airport and recently walked into the store, bought books and coffee. Knowing I played a small part in his journey, seeing that growth makes everything we do here worthwhile. It’s those moments of seeing real-life transformation that bring me the most joy.
I also find happiness in the relationships I’ve built over the years. The conversations, collaborations, and shared experiences with people who care about making the world a better place for future generations—those relationships are invaluable.
On a personal level, spending time with my family, especially my grandchildren, brings me immense happiness. They remind me of the importance of legacy and the work we must continue to do for them and for generations to come.
Ultimately, happiness comes from seeing the fruits of hard work, dedication, and commitment to uplifting others. It’s about knowing that we’re making a difference—one person, one connection, and one community at a time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://blackdotcc.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackdotcc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackdotccbookstore/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@blackdotcc
