Milwaukee Entrepreneur Preserves African Culture Through Retail

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As Black History Month is celebrated, one small storefront in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is telling a much bigger story. Mchete's African Treasures owner Monica Ashery, who grew up in a village in Tanzania, pieces together more than fabric through her store. She works to preserve centuries of African tradition, one piece at a time, by selling garments, jewelry, and hand-crafted goods from across the African continent.

Why it matters

Ashery's store allows customers to reconnect with their African ancestry in a tangible way, celebrating their culture and heritage. In an era where many independent businesses struggle, Mchete's African Treasures has thrived by catering to a need for authentic African products and cultural preservation.

The details

Ashery arrived in Milwaukee in 1988 and later graduated from Mount Mary College. After being diagnosed with lupus and receiving a kidney transplant, she turned to entrepreneurship, founding Mchete's African Treasures to 'save two cultures and bridge two cultures, the American culture and the African culture.' The store features products from at least six African nations, including Tanzania, Senegal, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa, all handpicked by Ashery.

• Mchete's African Treasures was founded in the late 1980s after Ashery arrived in Milwaukee.
• Ashery was diagnosed with lupus in the 1990s, which led her to start the business.
• Mchete's African Treasures is celebrating Black History Month in February 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Mchete's African Treasures will be hosting a special event during Black History Month in February 2026 to celebrate the store's mission and connect customers with African culture.