This content was produced for US Bank by the foundry @ Meredith Corp. People editorial staff was not involved in its creation or production.
This Entrepreneur is Amplifying Black and Brown Talent in His Minnesota Hometown
Minneapolis entrepreneur, barber, and former real estate developer Houston White has big plans for his neighborhood. He and his team are revitalizing Camden Town with a focus on art, culture, and community.
Tesa Johnson, executive director of Camden Town business district (and Houston’s sister), has been involved from the start. “Houston cut my older son’s hair for the first time when he was one year old,” she laughs. Houston White’s barbershop, HWMR, occupied a few locations over the years before settling in at the corner of 44th and Humboldt, where it serves as an anchor of the Camden Webber neighborhood in North Minneapolis.
Not only has it hosted Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Minneapolis’ police chief, and the mayor, but it serves as a community space, showcasing local pop up shops and hosting community groups. HMWR also features retail space for Houston’s Black Excellence clothing line.
This multi-faceted approach is central to White’s focus on enriching his community. Tesa says her brother knew exactly what his vision was for his barbershop and for Camden Town. “He went after it and he made it happen.” White also mentors young men from the neighborhood, teaching everything from barbering to social skills. “I admire his ability to be who he is, unapologetically, no matter what role he’s in,” she says.
Like many small businesses, HWMR has felt the impact of the pandemic. “The barbershop is a community center. Everything we do in Camden Town and the barbershop, it’s a lot of social interaction. Face to face. So it’s been difficult to not be able to have the doors open,” says Tesa.
Last year, they hosted the first annual Camden Town Blues and BBQ Fest, a free event with great food and live music. Sadly, this year’s event has been canceled due to the coronavirus. “We’re coming up with different ways to show up now that things are changing. But the mission hasn’t changed,” Tesa explains. “U.S. Bank and Studio/E are helping us expand and partner with people to help us keep Black and brown talent in Minnesota. So many people love their work but have a hard time with where they live.”
I admire his ability to be who he is, unapologetically, no matter what role he’s in.”– Tesa Johnson
Tesa and Houston were so encouraged to see the community showing up strong and wearing the Black Excellence clothing line at recent rallies and protests. “It ties everything that we’re trying to do together. It brings in a larger community conversation,” she explains. “We’re able to bring more diverse people to the table and ask what they need and what they’re looking for, so that we can build a future and expand the mission.”
Camden Town is a community project, but it doesn’t stop there. “It’s also personal,” Tesa explains. “My brother’s wife passed away a year ago, but she really brought about this idea for Camden Town. She wanted to be in a place like Chicago and Washington and Hyde Park, where you see a lot of Black and brown talent.”
“Camden Town is more than just an idea,” she continues. “It is highly personal, and we won’t stop until it comes to fruition.”
Houston’s story is part of a powerful series highlighting the hope and resilience of small business owners across America. Whether your business is well-established or just starting out, U.S. Bank has all the banking tools and support you need to keep your business dreams alive and thriving.
