OUR FOUNDER
KHADIJA HAMIDU
Khadija Hamidu is the founder of Melanin Market, a Canadian non-profit dedicated to supporting Black and POC businesses through funding, marketing, and event opportunities. She also serves as Vice President of Economic Development at YWCA, where she focuses on strategic planning and enhancing local economies.
Her commitment to community engagement includes roles as Vice Chair of the Hamilton Immigration Partnership Council and Board Member for Goodwill. Recognized among Hamilton’s Top 40 Under 40 leaders, she was honoured with the 2024 Arts Champion Award by the Hamilton Arts Council for her impact on the cultural sector.
Where Culture Lives
According to the Business Development Bank of Canada, Black Canadians remain underrepresented in entrepreneurship, with only 1.3 percent of Black adults identifying as entrepreneurs, compared to 2.3 percent of Canadian adults overall.
Since its launch on James Street North in January 2021, Melanin Market has emerged as a transformative platform, empowering Black and POC communities across Canada. Through a variety of curated events, including live, marketplaces, and cultural celebrations, Melanin Market has welcomed over 1,500 visitors and supported more than 100 small businesses and artists.
Promote
Economic Growth
By offering opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their products, Melanin Market helps drive local economic development.
Foster
Community Connection
Events serve as gathering spaces for diverse communities, encouraging networking, collaboration, and solidarity.
Celebrate
Cultural Diversity
Through cultural celebrations and performances, Melanin Market highlights the richness and vibrancy of Black and POC cultures, fostering pride and cultural awareness.
Pop-up Markets
Throughout the year, our markets showcases Black and POC-owned businesses, fashion, art, food, music, and live performances from local performers. Black and POC Vendors have a great opportunity to sell their services, all while engaging the broader community in African and Carribean culture.
Melanin Mermaids
Outside of our community based markets, we have a program offering free swimming lessons for Black women over the age of 18. This is a fun opportunity to get into fitness, make new connections and gain confidence in the water.
New programming schedule will be announced in Fall 2026.
