On January 1, 2026, the principle of Imani, meaning “faith,” is celebrated as the final tenet of Kwanzaa. This principle emphasizes the importance of believing in family, community, and culture among people of African descent. It inspires individuals to invest in their communities, fostering strong familial bonds that serve as the foundation for collective progress. Ashley Marrero, a native of East New York, exemplifies this principle through her innovative ice cream shop, Kente Cones.
A Sweet Beginning in East New York
Marrero launched Kente Cones as a pop-up before opening her first permanent store in June 2025. This establishment quickly became a local favorite, offering unique ice cream flavors that celebrate African heritage. The shop features a variety of products, including vegan ice creams, sorbets, and Ethiopian coffee options.
Among the standout flavors are the signature Madagascar vanilla bean, a rich black cocoa ice cream called Black is King, a buttery pecan flavor named Granny’s Favorite, and the vegan Ghanaian chocolate crunch, known as Melanin Madness. Additionally, sorbet options include refreshing mango-pineapple and a sugar-free red berry variety. According to Marrero, there were no ice cream shops in the neighborhood prior to her opening.
Building Community Through Culture
Marrero expressed her joy in creating a welcoming space for teenagers, families, and seniors. “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 commitment to community and culture aligns closely with the essence of Imani. Marrero’s vision extends beyond serving ice cream; she aims to educate and inspire pride within the community she serves. Her approach illustrates the impact of maintaining faith in both oneself and one’s surroundings, demonstrating how local businesses can uplift and strengthen their neighborhoods.
As Kwanzaa celebrations continue, Kente Cones stands out as a testament to the power of belief in nurturing both cultural identity and community ties. Marrero’s story will resonate as BK Reader features local residents and organizations that embody the principles of Kwanzaa throughout the holiday period.
