This Bootstrapped Nigerian Startup is Cornering Africa’s Creator Economy
January 15, 2026
Teyana Taylor has officially entered a new chapter. She won Best Supporting Actress at the 2026 Golden Globe. Her outstanding performance in Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another earned her recognition.
The actress delivered an emotional acceptance speech, thanking her family and team. Afterwards, she shared a powerful message with women of color everywhere.
Our softness is not a liability,” Taylor said, “Our depth is not too much. Our light does not need permission to shine.”
The Golden Globe win did more than surprise Hollywood; it confirmed a transformation years in the making. Once known primarily for her music and style, Taylor has emerged as a serious acting force with real businesses behind her.
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Here are Teyana Taylor’s diverse endeavors that have led to this moment.
The Aunties
The aunties is an all-woman-led production company that Taylor co-founded with Courtney Coco Gilbert. They handle choreography, styling, and video production support. The company then expanded into Aunties 360. This five-acre creative campus in Harlem houses all that an artist may need. Production studios sit alongside dance spaces. Recording booths neighboir 360 degree green screen rooms. Props and equipment are also included.
Major artists trust The Aunties. The company has directed music videos for Queen Naija and Lil Durk. Taylor won BET’s Video Director of the Year award in 2020. More recently, the Aunties provided creative direction for NBA YoungBoy’s arena tour. The team manages everything from choreography to overall aesthetic vision.
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In 2025, Taylor launched the Teyana Taylor edit with Victoria’s Secret in February 2025. Here she was the creative director, stylist, and model. The collection features lingerie, swimwear, and athletic wear. Each piece reflects her bold aesthetic.
“It was literally a dream of mine,” Taylor told People magazine. She remembers shopping at Pink as a teenager. Now she curates collections for the main brand.
The partnership demonstrates her fashion industry influence. Previously, she collaborated with Adidas and Air Jordan. She designed signature sneaker releases. She also served as creative director for PrettyLittleThing.
Fade2Fit
Taylor launched Fade2Fit in 2017. This is a fitness program centered on dance-based workouts. After her appearance in Kanye West’s “Fade” video, fans demanded her secrets.
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She delivered with a 90-day course. Members access intense dance routines from anywhere. The program includes customized meal plans. It costs under $150 for three months of content.
“Dance is fitness,” Taylor explained to Vogue. She wanted to inspire people beyond traditional gym workouts. The program proved that dance can sculpt bodies effectively.
Real Estate
Taylor invests strategically in real estate. She owns properties in Los Angeles and New York. Some serve as personal residences. Others support her creative projects.
In 2021, she secured five acres in Harlem. This property became home to Aunties 360. The investment demonstrates her commitment to owning, not renting. It also shows her dedication to her hometown.
Directing
Taylor directs under the name Spike Tee. She’s created music videos for years. Now she’s preparing her feature film debut. Paramount Pictures will release “Get Lite.”
The Multimedia Vision
Taylor refuses to accept boxes or limitations. She’s an actress who also sings. A dancer who also directs. An entrepreneur who also studies.
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Each venture connects to the others. Her fitness program showcases her dance skills. Whilst her production company supports other artists’ visions. Moreover, her fashion partnerships express her personal style as well.
The Golden Globe validates her acting prowess. But Taylor’s business portfolio proves her staying power. She’s not just talented, she’s strategic. She doesn’t just work in entertainment; she owns it.
