Supporting Black-Led Businesses in Barnet
The CB Plus Racial Justice Fund, supported by Trust for London, empowers Black-led businesses in Barnet. It strengthens networks, improves access to resources, and builds confidence to help secure funding. Research from Middlesex University highlights a performance gap between African and Caribbean-led businesses and others in the borough.
To support this mission, CB Plus Racial Justice Fund Project Manager Monica Dawkins spoke with Elsie Ocran. Elsie is the founder of Gyamfua London (Gglow), a skincare brand focused on natural, sustainable products and community impact. Her story shows the resilience, innovation, and purpose that drive Barnet’s Black-led business community.
Elsie’s Journey: From Ghana to Gglow
Born in Ghana and raised in a family of entrepreneurs, Elsie moved to the UK at 14. She trained in Hospitality Management and managed school teams across London. Later, she shifted into disability care, focusing on social impact and community well-being.
Inspired by natural remedies and customer feedback at local markets, Elsie launched Gglow. The brand began at market stalls in Covent Garden and Hampstead. With determination and mentoring support, she officially registered the business in 2020. Even during the pandemic, she built a UK-Ghana supply chain by drawing on her strong community ties.
“It’s not just about skincare, it’s about self-worth, sustainability, and supporting others to grow,” Elsie shares.
Business with Purpose and Growing Recognition
Gglow is more than a beauty brand—it’s a mission-driven enterprise. Rooted in health and wellbeing, Gglow’s product range nourishes the skin and supports overall balance and vitality.
You can find Gglow Skincare at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, where staff and patients get exclusive discounts as part of Elsie’s social impact commitment.
Elsie also mentors entrepreneurs, supports training for women in Ghana, and offers internships to Brunel University students. Her values of community, empowerment, and purpose shine through in every part of her work.
Her efforts have won national awards, including the 2025 Gold Award for Sustainable Business (SME London Chambers) and Best Natural Product (Skylounge Awards). She was also a finalist for Health & Wellbeing Business of the Year, Green Growth, and Business Woman of the Year.
With features in the Evening Standard, support from JP Morgan Chase, and products received at Buckingham Palace, Gglow highlights the power of supporting Black-led businesses and diverse entrepreneurs.
Why Elsie’s Story Matters
Elsie’s journey reflects the CB Plus Racial Justice Fund’s goals: creating visibility, fostering collaboration, and removing barriers for Black-led businesses. Her success proves that mentorship, community, and the right resources lead to lasting impact—not just for individuals but for the whole community.
By sharing stories like Elsie’s, CB Plus promotes a more inclusive and equitable business environment in Barnet—where every entrepreneur has the tools, confidence, and support to thrive.
To learn more about Gglow, visit their website, follow on Instagram, or connect with Elsie on LinkedIn.
