261: The Underlying Value in Blending Style, Sustainability, & Technology w/ Daryl (DJ) Riley Jr.
As a Black entrepreneur, you’ve probably felt the pressure to pick one lane or play it safe. But what if your breakthrough is actually in the blend? When bold style, conscious sustainability, and smart technology come together, they create real power in your brand and purpose. Whether you’re building a product or offering a service, your audience is craving more than just a look or a label. They want meaning, function, and innovation. This episode helps you explore how to build with all of that in mind.
In this powerful conversation, we’re joined by Daryl “DJ” Riley Jr., engineer, innovator, and co-founder of Tendaji, a fashion tech company known for its solar-powered wireless charging apparel. DJ shares how a college senior design project grew into a nationally recognized business, why sustainability and culture matter at every stage, and how Black entrepreneurs can create value-driven brands across any industry. If you’ve ever wondered whether your big idea was too different or too early, this episode will help you believe in your vision and take action.
DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:
- Why blending style, sustainability, and tech creates long-term business value
- How to turn a college project into a nationally recognized innovation
- Practical ways to embed purpose and culture into your product or service
- How to stay committed to your mission even when you face setbacks
- The mindset shifts needed to pursue bold, innovative ideas
- How tech and sustainability will shape the future of Black entrepreneurship
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
- Black Ambition Prize
- Black Girl Ventures
- Microsoft’s Make What’s Next Patent Program
- Clo3D Fashion Design Software
ABOUT Daryl (DJ) Riley Jr.:
Daryl “DJ” Riley Jr. is an award-winning innovator, engineer, and entrepreneur building at the intersection of technology, fashion, and sustainability. He is the CEO and Co-Founder of Tendaji, a fashion tech brand creating solar-powered charging apparel designed with culture and function in mind.
A graduate of Hampton University and North Carolina A&T, DJ is passionate about creating inclusive solutions for real-world problems. His work has been recognized by Essence Magazine, the Mercedes-Benz beVisioneers Fellowship, and Pharrell’s Black Ambition Prize.
DJ also serves as Program Manager for the Black Girl Ventures NextGen Program, where he helps guide HBCU students and emerging founders through the startup journey. Whether he’s innovating wearable tech or pouring into the next generation, DJ is committed to showing that purpose and profit can work hand in hand.
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