Black Girl Vitamins x Powerhouse of Red & White at Winston-Salem State University Partnership
About the Partnership
Black Girl Vitamins has become the Official Vitamin Sponsor of Winston-Salem State University’s (WSSU) Cheer Team, also known as the Powerhouse of Red & White!
This partnership allows for a Black-women owned wellness company to support the mission and health of young, talented women at a Historically Black Public University. The team members will have supplies of BGV’s Hair, Skin, and Nails, the #1 hair vitamins made specifically for Black women, along with B12 and Collagen Powder.
Hair, Skin, and Nails promotes healthy hair follicles, reduces breakage, prevents hair loss, and improves overall scalp health with ingredients like biotin and zinc.
Additional nutrients found in BGV’s B12 and Collagen Powder will contribute to their energy levels, joint health, and bone strength as they continue to cheer, stunt, and dance! The team will also receive branded BGV sweatshirts, water bottles, and towels.
“The Powerhouse of Red & White cheer program has had a long-standing tradition of representing the natural hair community. We teach our young ladies and gentlemen the importance of maintaining healthy hair. A major component of that is being mindful to feed your body essential nutrients daily. Taking a multivitamin is a huge support to a college athlete and ensures they have the tools to be successful on the field/court.” - NeSheila Washington, Head Coach of WSSU Cheer Team
Historical Relevance
This team has reclaimed what it means for Black women to embrace their natural beauty. For centuries, our hair has been policed and discriminated against for defying Eurocentric beauty standards. From The Tignon Laws of 1786, to forced assimilation with harmful chemicals and tools, Black women have always had internal and external battles embracing what grows out of their scalp.
These standards have become embedded into our communities, bleeding into various aspects of life — including cheerleading. With Black women taking up just about 10% of professional cheerleaders, many struggle to accept themselves while trying to blend in (Zippia). Fortunately, the ladies at WSSU know they were born to stand out, and confidently wear their coils as they perform!
The Powerhouse of Red & White is undoubtedly setting trends in the industry with an amassed social media following of over 385,000 people. Currently, 22 Powerhouse members for the 2024-2025 season have participated in football & basketball games, competitions, and made a television appearance on Fox5 DC News!
The natural ladies have garnered millions of eyes over the years, as many Black women around the country have become deeply inspired by how the young women rock their hair, no matter the length or texture.