On January 1, 2026, the principle of Imani, meaning “faith,” will be observed as the final day of Kwanzaa. This principle emphasizes the importance of unwavering belief in family, community, culture, and the collective struggles of people of African descent. It serves as a reminder that strong faith can inspire individuals to foster resilient families, which are essential to building vibrant communities.
One local entrepreneur embodying this spirit is Ashley Marrero, the founder of Kente Cones, an ice cream shop that opened in East New York in June 2025. Marrero started Kente Cones as a pop-up venture, aiming to bring unique flavors and a sense of community pride to a neighborhood that previously lacked ice cream shops.
Kente Cones offers a variety of inventive ice creams made from African ingredients. The shop’s menu includes vegan ice creams, sorbets, and Ethiopian coffee. Some of the standout flavors are the signature Madagascar vanilla bean, the rich Black is King featuring black cocoa, and the classic Granny’s Favorite, a butter pecan. For vegan options, Melanin Madness showcases Ghanaian chocolate crunch, while the refreshing sorbets include mango-pineapple and a sugar-free red berry variety.
Marrero, a native of East New York, expressed her excitement about welcoming families, teenagers, and seniors into her shop. “For me, it’s bigger than ice cream,” she stated. “Not only are you having delicious ice cream, you’re going to leave with some knowledge, and you’re going to have more self-pride in your culture, our heritage, our ancestors, what they’ve contributed to ice cream.” This sentiment reflects the essence of Imani, where faith in one’s community can lead to meaningful change and success.
Kente Cones is more than just a place to enjoy sweet treats; it serves as a cultural hub where customers can learn about their history and heritage. Marrero’s passion for her community drives her mission to create a welcoming environment that celebrates African culture.
As Kwanzaa approaches, BK Reader will highlight various local residents and organizations that exemplify each of the seven principles, beginning on December 26, 2025. This initiative aims to showcase the positive impact of faith and community involvement, much like what Marrero has achieved with Kente Cones. With the support of her neighbors and a commitment to cultural celebration, Ashley Marrero continues to exemplify the power of Imani in her entrepreneurial journey.
