What is TCTLE?

TCTLE, a Black woman-owned business, is changing the future for womxn of color (WOC) creatives across the globe. With an online market and directory, TCTLE arms companies and consumers alike with access to talented, diverse and innovative WOC voices.

TCTLE makes representation accessible, adding value to our communities and workplaces. TCTLE supports WOC creatives with two leading features:

#1 The online market partners with other WOC business owners to sell their products and goods; 10% of every purchase is donated to an organization that supports people of color.

#2 The directory, accessible after a free signup, serves as a global resource for companies and people looking to hire WOC creatives to their team, including experts in video, graphic design, photography, copy writing and so much more.

Meet the Founder – Deepa Shanbhag

BGA: What are the benefits of joining the TCTLE community?

Deepa: There’s the immediate and then there’s the long term. The immediate is based on the quote, “you need friends who would mention your name in a room full of opportunities”. I genuinely love being that friend and through TCTLE, I get to be that for people I’ve never met.

I stress that I don’t think I’m doing anyone favors. I just get to tell others about the cool product/people *I’ve* only just discovered in case I wasn’t the only one. The long term involves the next generation. Be the example for those coming up, and show them it’s possible to succeed as a creative.

BGA: Can you name a few of the companies/brands that hire women through the TCTLE directory?

Deepa: I don’t have access to that info as the directory is just a contact list and it’s up to the individual parties to connect with one another. Womxn of color in any and all creative professions—from chef, to film director, to custom jewelry maker—all over the world are welcome to add their info to the list for free!

Those looking to hire talent can also access the directory for free with email signup. TCTLE doesn’t operate as an agency. I just wanted to create an easier way for people to network that didn’t involve barriers like an arduous application process or a paywall. Also, the requested info is just the need to know details such as specialties, links to online portfolios and whether or not the individual is open to hearing about remote or relocation opportunities.

BGA: Who are your favorite Black women creatives?

Deepa: I have a few. All for different reasons, but just to keep it small—Rinny Perkins, Arielle Wilkins, and Rayna Lucier. I think all three are incredibly talented and I’ve talked about specific reasons why as part of my #WOCMakerShoutout series (social media initiative where I share and rave about purchases I’ve made from other WOC and encourage others to do the same).

Overall, I’m attracted to their pieces mostly because of the connection they make to things I relate to, whether it be bits of pop culture or declarations I support. They’re part of my top 10 most recommended creatives when someone is looking for a gift for themselves or others.

BGA: When you aren’t being the boss, what do you like to do?

Deepa: I’m a workaholic, so in the rare moments when I’m not actively engaged in some project, I thoroughly enjoy binging on a good TV drama (I’m currently re-watching one of my faves, The O.C., for the third time) and hanging with my dog, Lucas.

I’m also the maker behind all the TCTLE Exclusives, so I’m often knitting/crocheting/sewing/crafting for the next collection while watching TV.

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