Rosha Brister: determined to manifest her dreams

A passion for coffee and community

Rosha Brister studied journalism and communications at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM),  where she honed the storytelling skills that now help her craft the vision of Style Pop Café. 

Beyond business, her passions includes skating and frequenting other coffee shops, drawing inspiration from the very spaces she aims to cultivate.

Celebrating all facets

As a Black lesbian woman, Rosha embraces these intersecting identities with pride. 

“I say it in that order because those two first things are not just obvious but two identities that I hold most valuable,” she explains. 

To her, being a Black woman who is lesbian means embodying resilience while fighting to be seen and heard. Yet, by living in her truth, she redefines success on her own terms.

Manifesting her dreams

A pivotal moment in Rosha’s journey came in 2019, when she started a new job only to later discover that upper management had deemed her incapable of advancing within the company. 

Rather than accepting limitations placed on her, she forged her own path.

Fast forward six years, and Rosha has been featured in the news over 20 times, established her business as a trusted vendor for the NFL Draft, and is on the verge of launching Style Pop Café. Her journey is proof that setbacks can serve as fuel for transformation.

“Don’t let people project their fears, insecurities, or limitations onto you. Just because they believe something is impossible or out of reach doesn’t mean it has to be true for you."

"Trust your own vision, capabilities, and path.” she says, as a reminder that one’s potential is not dictated by others’ doubts.

Creating safe spaces

Growing up, Rosha saw how being “gay” often led to ostracization and ridicule. That experience fueled her desire to build inclusive spaces where people, especially those in the LGBTQ community, could show up as their true selves without fear or judgment.

With Style Pop Café, Rosha is creating more than just a coffee shop; she is cultivating a space where individuality, inclusivity, and creativity thrive.

The power of representation

Rosha credits much of her strength to the unwavering support of friends like Ricardo Wynn, Dominique Johnson, Richie, Ed, and Lance, who welcomed her with open arms as she embraced her truth. 

Their encouragement reminds her of the importance of representation and chosen family, especially within marginalized communities.

Honoring Black history, celebrating Black futures

For Rosha, Black History Month is not just a celebration, it is a time to honor heritage, culture, struggle, and triumph. It is a time to educate, reflect, and uplift Black voices, ensuring that past sacrifices pave the way for future successes.

Looking ahead, she envisions a future where BIPOC women of lesbian experience have greater visibility and recognition in the Black queer space. 

“We have a lot to contribute to the LGBTQ community, and I plan to make sure those experiences are shared and celebrated.”

Fueling the future with purpose

When faced with adversity, Rosha stays motivated by family, both present and future. 

The legacy she is building today is not just for herself but for the next generation. She wants to create a better future, ensuring that those who come after her can thrive without the same barriers she has had to overcome.