On Thursday, January 1, 2026, Imani, which means "faith," the final principle of Kwanzaa, is observed.
Imani calls on individuals to believe–without reservation–in family, community, culture, people of African descent and the ultimate victory of their collective struggle.
This principle underscores the fact that belief in what can be achieved inspires people to build strong families, which are building blocks of communities. Without faith, nothing will be achieved.
This principal is highlighted through Ashley Marrero, who began Kente Cones in East New York as a pop-up. When she opened her first store in East New York in June, she delighted the community with her inventive ice cream made with ingredients from Africa.
The shop offers vegan ice creams, sorbets and Ethiopian coffee options. Specialty summer flavors include their signature Madagascar vanilla bean ice cream; Black is King, a black cocoa ice cream; Granny’s Favorite, a butter pecan; and Melanin Madness, a vegan Ghanaian chocolate crunch. Sorbet flavors include mango-pineapple and a sugar-free red berry sorbet.
Before Kente Cones, there were no ice cream shops in the neighborhood, according to Marrero. As a native East New Yorker, Marrero said she is pleased to welcome teenagers, families and the seniors into the space.
“For me, it's bigger than ice cream,” Marrero said. “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.”
Marrero and her business exemplifies what can happen when you maintain Imani--faith-- in the community you serve.
To read more about Kente Cones, go here.
Beginning Friday, Dec. 26, and for the seven days of Kwanzaa, BK Reader will feature a different local resident or organization that exemplifies one of the seven principles!
