On the last weekend of August, Atlanta witnessed a significant milestone in the life of Ta’Ron Joyner. After more than nine years of dedication to the Taliah Waajid Brand, Ta’Ron took the courageous leap from juggling a 9-to-5 [and a 5-to-9] to becoming a full-time entrepreneur. The event, a surprise celebration organized by friends and loved ones, was a testament to the impact Ta’Ron has had on those around her, both personally and professionally.

As a long-standing and highly valued team member at Taliah Waajid, Ta’Ron played a crucial role in the brand’s success in the natural hair care industry. The decision to leave such a deeply rooted position was not made lightly. “After working for a company so long, it is hard to decide you want to leave,” Ta’Ron shared. “It feels like a betrayal on both sides—betraying a team that is family but also betraying yourself and your dreams. At some point, a choice has to be made, and then you realize that it was for the best—for everyone, and that’s a great feeling.”

But the journey wasn’t just about managing a demanding job; Ta’Ron was also a full-time mother of three, balancing responsibilities while never losing sight of the dream that would become 1991 Design. “The name changed a few times, but that is because I changed as a person. I came to 1991 because that was the year that my life began, and I am my business. Everything I produce is a piece of me, and that makes me proud. I feel connected to everyone who I’ve served—I am proud of my clients.”

Despite a full plate of responsibilities, Ta’Ron managed to secure an impressive roster of clients, including Taliah Waajid, OkayPlayer, HelloSunshine, and Fashion Bomb Daily. Collaborating with these brands allowed Ta’Ron to showcase her unique design sensibilities and contribute to platforms that have made a significant impact in their respective fields. “I am so grateful to have had an opportunity where I could work alongside my family at Taliah Waajid. It was a great honor—probably one of my greatest. They are a mirror for me, and I am able to clearly see how far I’ve come.”

The surprise party was nothing short of a reflection of Ta’Ron’s journey and the community she has built along the way. The event saw a diverse crowd of supporters, ranging from close family and friends to some of Atlanta’s top business leaders, including bankers, business owners, and more. DJ Geronimo, a longtime friend of Ta’Ron, kept the energy high, while the cake, a masterpiece from the Bakery Studio ATL, was a sweet symbol of new beginnings. The evening was immortalized by the skillful lens of Jasmine Blount of Unposed Photography, whose work captured the essence of the celebration.

Building a Community: The Foundation of Business Success

As Ta’Ron embarks on this new chapter, she emphasizes the importance of building a network before you need one. In the business world, having a strong community of supporters is crucial for long-term success. “Go to the networking events. Get offline and into real life,” Ta’Ron advises. “Connection is at the very core of the human experience, and we often forget that until we need something.”

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), approximately 50% of small businesses fail within the first five years. However, businesses with strong community support—through mentorship, networking, and local patronage—are more likely to thrive. Ta’Ron’s experience underscores the value of these connections. The turnout at her celebration is a testament to the strong foundation she has built, a network that provides not only emotional support but also potential business opportunities and partnerships that are vital for any entrepreneur.

Representation Matters: Ta’Ron’s Mission for Black and Brown Designers

The design industry has long struggled with diversity, and Black and brown designers remain underrepresented in prominent roles. A 2020 report by the AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts) revealed that only 3% of designers in the United States are Black, and 8% are Hispanic, highlighting a significant gap in representation.

Ta’Ron Joyner is determined to change this narrative. Her mission extends beyond personal success; she aspires to be a beacon for younger Black and brown designers entering the industry. “I want to help those around me, but my larger mission is to be a beacon for younger Black and brown designers,” Ta’Ron explained. “I want them to know they have a place in this industry and that their voices, perspectives, and talents are not only needed but celebrated.”

This mission is not just about increasing numbers; it’s about creating a supportive environment where young designers of color can thrive, innovate, and lead. By providing mentorship, resources, and visibility, Ta’Ron hopes to pave the way for more diverse representation in the design industry. Her journey from a corporate role to entrepreneurship serves as a powerful example that success is possible, even in fields where the odds may seem stacked against you.

Looking Ahead

As Ta’Ron Joyner steps fully into her role as a full-time entrepreneur, the support of her community, combined with her passion for design and commitment to diversity, will undoubtedly propel her forward. Her journey is a reminder that with courage, dedication, and the right support system, it’s possible to break barriers and create lasting change in any industry.

In the coming months and years, Ta’Ron hopes to continue growing her business, 1991 Design, while simultaneously uplifting the next generation of designers. Her story is not just about entrepreneurship; it’s about creating a legacy that ensures future Black and brown designers have the opportunity to succeed in a world where they have long been overlooked. And for Ta’Ron, that journey has only just begun.

Written by Sage Whitfield