Describe your business in one sentence.

PICHA is a stock photo agency specialized in licensing Afrocentric visuals. We work with businesses who need to include diversity as part of their culture, communication, and marketing strategy. PICHA is a minority and woman-owned business.

Do you remember the moment or time when you told yourself, “I have to do this”?

Yes, as soon as I realized there was a gap in the stock-photography market for modern, Afrocentric images.

What makes your business so unique? 

PICHA stock is unique in its form, we don’t have a storefront, and our collection is specialized. We focus on visuals representing Afrocentric communities. We have been able to partner with Suzanne Zahr, Art & Architecture (SZ Gallery) for our artistic exhibitions.

What was your experience adapting to the new COVID reality?

It’s been challenging, but we have used this time to focus on what was truly meaningful to us. We launched a Visual Activist campaign to highlight stories of better representation of minorities in the media. Putting our energy into this campaign has helped overcome business challenges.

We often say innovation comes from questioning the status quo. Have you uncovered new ways of doing business or launched new products/services that you had not thought of before? How did it work out?

I completely agree with this. Running a business often consumes so much time; it is difficult to stop. This period has been helpful to re-assess why our mission matters. We have not changed anything this year, but we are working on a slightly different strategy for 2021.

Tell us something about your business that would surprise us.  

My business started as a hobby.

What is your favorite spot on Mercer Island? 

I love going to the bookstore on Mercer Island, but I really enjoy First Fridays at SZ Gallery. It was a great way to bring the community together.

Since you’ve been in business on Mercer Island, what have you discovered about Islanders and the Mercer Island community in general?

They have always been welcoming and really helpful.

When you are not working, what is your favorite pastime? 

When I moved here, a MI friend took me on different walks around in the area. I really enjoy going for a walk in the park. I also enjoy painting, and, with all the social restrictions [due to the COVID-19 pandemic], I have tried to include painting in my life again.

If you had to convince a non-Islander to come discover our town, what would you tell them?

You’ll get a small-town vibe just minutes from Seattle and Bellevue. People are friendly, and you’ll get a few gems here you don’t find in Bellevue or Seattle.

Learn more about PICHA at www.pichastock.com.