Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Empower Global initiative, a digital marketplace launched in July to bolster Black-owned businesses, is experiencing significant brand withdrawals. Amid mounting sexual assault allegations against the hip-hop mogul, Rolling Stone reports that 18 brands previously affiliated with Empower Global have severed ties.

This exodus follows the sexual assault lawsuit filed in November by Cassie, real name Casandra Ventura, against Combs. Several other women have since echoed similar allegations against the rapper-turned-entrepreneur. Haby Barry, the founder of jewelry brand Fulaba, articulated her company’s decision to dissociate, stating, “Fulaba is all about empowering women and girls. We will not associate with anything or anyone that is counter to our values.”

Annette Njau, the founder of House of Takura, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the gravity of the allegations against Combs and the importance of supporting victims’ rights. She confirmed her brand’s withdrawal from Empower Global on the day Cassie’s lawsuit was filed.

Empower Global operates on a subscription-based model, charging brands a $35 monthly fee and a 10 percent sales commission. Rebecca Allen, a high-end footwear designer, cited not only low sales but also the distressing nature of the allegations as her reasons for ending the partnership with Empower Global.

Cassie’s lawsuit against Combs, which was settled quickly and amicably in November, painted a disturbing picture of her relationship with Combs, alleging manipulation, coercion into sexual encounters with multiple men, and rape. Combs has strongly denied these allegations, vowing to fight for his innocence and his family’s honor against those seeking a “quick payday.”

Despite his firm denial, Combs has stepped down temporarily from his chairman role at Revolt TV, further indicating the impact of these allegations on his professional life and ventures.

Ntianu Obiora
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Ntianu Obiora is a versatile creative professional with over a decade of experience in publishing, marketing, communications, and digital strategy. She is the Online Editor at THEWILL DOWNTOWN