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Lori Jones: Winner – Women Leader in Specialty Coffee & Experience-Led Brand Building | International Women Awards 2026

  • Writer: Great Companies
    Great Companies
  • May 5
  • 3 min read

The 8th International Women Awards 2026 by Great Companies celebrates women leaders who are building purpose-driven brands that go beyond products to create meaningful experiences and community impact.


Among this year’s distinguished winners is Lori Jones, Founder & CEO of Black•ology Coffee Company, honored as Winner – Women Leader in Specialty Coffee & Experience-Led Brand Building.


Based in Raleigh, USA, Lori is redefining the coffee industry by blending culinary expertise, education, and community-driven storytelling into a unique and immersive brand experience.


Company Overview

Founder: Lori Jones

Business: Black•ology Coffee Company

Location: Raleigh, USA

Founded: 2020

Category: Specialty Coffee & Experience-Led Brand Building

Industry: Specialty Coffee, Retail & Consumer Experience


More Than Coffee—A Cultural and Educational Experience

Black•ology Coffee Company is a specialty coffee brand designed to deliver bold, low-acid coffee experiences combined with education and storytelling.

The company offers:

  • Responsibly sourced single-origin coffees and blends

  • Espresso products and curated merchandise

  • Coffee education, workshops, and masterclasses

  • Pop-up experiences and community engagement initiatives

The mission is clear:👉 Coffee is not just a beverage—it is a ritual, an experience, and a connection point for culture and community.


A Unique Blend of Flavor, Education, and Purpose

What sets Black•ology apart is its experience-first and education-driven approach.

Key differentiators include:

  • Focus on bold, smooth, low-acid coffee for better everyday experience

  • Integration of coffee education into the brand journey

  • Chef-driven flavor profiles bringing culinary depth to coffee

  • Strong community engagement and purpose-led initiatives


Customers don’t just buy coffee—👉 They gain a deeper understanding, appreciation, and connection to what they consume.


From Culinary Leadership to Coffee Entrepreneurship

Lori’s journey is a powerful story of reinvention and resilience.

A former:

  • Head chef

  • Culinary educator

  • Community leader


She launched Black•ology during the COVID-19 pandemic after being laid off, turning uncertainty into opportunity.


What began as a creative outlet quickly evolved into:👉 A purpose-driven brand rooted in entrepreneurship, education, and community impact.


Building a Brand Through Adversity and Growth

Lori faced multiple challenges along her journey:

  • Launching a business during a global crisis

  • Navigating supply chain and operational limitations

  • Establishing credibility in a competitive specialty coffee industry

  • Balancing leadership, motherhood, and entrepreneurship


Through continuous learning, mentorship, and strong community connections, she transformed these challenges into a solid and scalable foundation.


Leadership Rooted in Service and Community Impact

Lori’s leadership philosophy is centered on:

  • Service-driven entrepreneurship

  • Building people, not just businesses

  • Creating opportunities through education and mentorship

  • Strengthening communities through shared experiences


Beyond her company, she also serves as:

  • President of the Raleigh-Durham Area Chapter of the American Culinary Federation

Her leadership extends across both culinary and entrepreneurial ecosystems.


Advice for Women Entrepreneurs

Lori shares grounded and impactful advice:

  • “Start before you feel ready—confidence grows through action.”

  • “Learn the fundamentals of business to sustain your passion.”

  • “Stay rooted in your purpose—it will guide you through uncertainty.”

  • “Use your success to create opportunities for others.”


The Future

Black•ology Coffee Company is focused on:

  • Expanding its reach in the specialty coffee and retail space

  • Scaling its education and experience-driven offerings

  • Building stronger community partnerships

  • Creating a brand that represents culture, connection, and empowerment

The vision is to build a globally recognized brand where coffee becomes a vehicle for learning, connection, and impact.


Official Recognition

Lori Jones has been honored as the Winner – Women Leader in Specialty Coffee & Experience-Led Brand Building at the 8th International Women Awards 2026 by Great Companies, recognizing her contribution to entrepreneurship, community building, and innovative brand creation.



About the Awards

The International Women Awards by Great Companies celebrates women leaders who are driving innovation, impact, and excellence across industries worldwide.


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