“I believe that passion alone does not build a successful business—strategy does. My mission is to equip entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and mindset they need to turn ideas into profitable and sustainable businesses.“
As the Owner & CEO of IFRI, I have dedicated my career to fostering economic growth and creating pathways for BIPOC entrepreneurs worldwide. Through IFRI-TRYV, my nonprofit organization, we have helped over 2,300 business owners gain access to resources, training, and funding. But my journey began long before that…
My Journey: From Corporate to Community Impact
Entrepreneur | Speaker | Economic Development Expert | Coach
Born in Monrovia, Liberia → Empowering BIPOC Entrepreneurs Globally
I believe passion alone isn’t enough to build a thriving business—strategy, validation, and execution are what truly drive success.
As the Founder & CEO of IFRI, I’ve helped over 2,300 entrepreneurs access funding, business development resources, and the tools they need to create profitable and sustainable businesses. My mission? To change the mindset for prosperity—empowering business owners to shift from simply surviving to strategically scaling.
But my journey didn’t start here. It started with a deep passion for economic empowerment, a commitment to my community, and a bold vision to break barriers for BIPOC entrepreneurs worldwide.
My Professional Start
My career began in corporate America, where I spent over 13 years in the Pharmacy Benefit Management (PBM) industry with industry leaders like:
• CVS Health
• Mercer Health & Benefits
• Prime Therapeutics
• Walgreens
From there, I transitioned into economic development, serving as a Senior Economic Development Analyst for Hennepin County—one of the largest county systems in Minnesota. In this role, I worked as the lead business navigator for the Elevate Hennepin program, connecting businesses with the funding, mentorship, and strategic guidance they needed to grow.
This experience reinforced what I had long believed: access, education, and strategic planning are the key to economic empowerment—especially for BIPOC business owners.
That’s when I knew I had to build something bigger. This lead me to launch my entrepreneurial dreams.
IFRI LLC : A Holding Company Built to Create Opportunity
Empowering Entrepreneurs, Strengthening Communities
In 2015, I launched IfriMarket Inc., an online platform where Liberians abroad could purchase food and essentials for their families back home. This was just the beginning.
By 2020, I expanded into product manufacturing, launching Manbo Ginger Beer, an authentic African-inspired beverage brand featuring alcoholic, non-alcoholic, and THC-infused options. What started as a vision to create a culturally rich, high-quality beverage turned into an opportunity to build wealth within the BIPOC community.
Manbo Ginger Beer was born out of a desire to blend culture, commerce, and community impact. Sourced from Durban, South Africa, and co-packed in Minnesota, USA, every can of Manbo Ginger Beer tells a story of authenticity, heritage, and economic empowerment.
✦ Top 15 Finalist, 2024 Hy-Vee OpportUnity Pitch Competition
✦ Expanding distribution across the U.S.
✦ A percentage of proceeds supports IFRI-TRYV’s business training programs.
In 2021, I launched IFRI-TRYV, a nonprofit dedicated to entrepreneurship education, business training, and economic development. Our impact so far:
✦ Created the IFRI-TRYV Business Clinic (ITBC), providing structured business training and mentorship.
✦ Hosted the Annual BIPOC Business Expo, connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and experts.
✦ Launched the BIPOC Business Network, creating partnerships and funding pathways for minority-owned businesses.
✦ Helped 52 young female entrepreneurs in Liberia, with 19 securing grants to launch their businesses.
✦ Provided food and emergency aid through community-driven initiatives in Liberia.
We don’t just teach business—we build sustainable legacies.
IFRI LLC
At IFRI-TRYV, we are committed to enhancing productivity, providing stability, and creating opportunities for BIPOC entrepreneurs. Our work has:
➤ Hosted the annual BIPOC Business Expo
➤ Launched the BIPOC Business Network
➤ Founded the IFRI-TRYV Business Clinic (ITBC)
➤ Supported over 2,300 entrepreneurs worldwide
➤ Provided food security through monthly drives in Liberia
➤ Donated fire gear & equipment to Liberia’s National Fire Services
➤ Helped 52 young female entrepreneurs (ages 17-29) with business training & capital access
➤ Funded tuition costs for Uniting Distance Stars, a vocational school in Liberia
Manbo Ginger Beer is more than just a beverage—it’s a celebration of culture, authenticity, and innovation. Crafted with raw ingredients sourced from South Africa, Manbo Gingerbeer delivers a bold and refreshing taste while supporting economic growth in BIPOC communities.
Available in alcoholic, non-alcoholic, and THC-infused variations, Manbo Ginger Beer is redefining the beverage industry with its unique blend of tradition and modern craftsmanship. As the sole distributor and licensed wholesaler, Manbo Gingerbeer ensures that every sip is rooted in quality, heritage, and impact.
Manbo Ginger Beer is not just a drink—it’s a movement
I am the first black woman in Minnesota to have my alcohol wholesale license.
Awards & Recognition
🏆 2019 DDEA Humanitarian Award – Baltimore, MD
🏆 2023 BBB Torch Awards Finalist
🏆 2024 Hy-Vee OpportUnity Pitch Competition – Top 15 Finalist
🏆 Appointed to the DEED Emerging Entrepreneur Board
🎤 Panelist & Speaker at Economic Development Conferences
Corporate Event Manager & Digital Marketing Strategist (Reaching over 500,000 people through digital campaigns)
More About Me
Beyond business, I’m passionate about mentorship, global economic development, and creating opportunities for future generations.
Beyond Business:
✦ Born in Monrovia, Liberia, now based in Minneapolis, MN
✦ Passionate about food, travel, meditation, and mentorship
✦ Love empowering entrepreneurs and breaking barriers for BIPOC businesses
Interested in working together? Let’s connect!