On January 1, 2026, communities across the world celebrated Imani, the final principle of Kwanzaa, which translates to “faith.” This principle emphasizes the importance of unwavering belief in family, community, culture, and the collective achievements of people of African descent. As this celebration unfolded, the story of Ashley Marrero and her innovative ice cream shop, Kente Cones, in East New York emerged as a vibrant example of what faith in community can achieve.
Building Community Through Unique Flavors
Kente Cones, which started as a pop-up venture, opened its first permanent location in June 2025. Marrero’s shop has quickly become a beloved spot in East New York, known for its unique ice cream offerings made with ingredients sourced from Africa. The menu features a variety of vegan ice creams, sorbets, and Ethiopian coffee, appealing to a diverse clientele.
Specialty flavors include the signature Madagascar vanilla bean, the rich Black is King black cocoa ice cream, and Granny’s Favorite butter pecan. The shop also offers Melanin Madness, a vegan Ghanaian chocolate crunch, alongside refreshing sorbet options like mango-pineapple and a sugar-free red berry sorbet. Prior to Kente Cones, Marrero noted that there were no ice cream shops in the neighborhood, highlighting the significant gap her business fills.
More Than Just Ice Cream
As a native of East New York, Marrero is passionate about creating a welcoming environment for all community members, including 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, and what they’ve contributed to ice cream.”
Marrero’s dedication to her community reflects the essence of Imani. By fostering a space where cultural pride can flourish, she exemplifies the power of belief in collective progress. The impact of Kente Cones extends beyond taste; it serves as a platform for education and connection, reinforcing the idea that faith in one’s community can drive positive change.
As part of Kwanzaa, which runs from December 26 to January 1, local organizations and individuals who embody the seven principles are highlighted. Kente Cones is a shining example of how Imani can manifest in everyday life, encouraging others to commit to their communities and cultures.
For further information about Kente Cones and their unique menu offerings, interested individuals can visit their website.
