Brooke Hart Jones, a third-generation HBCU alum and former toy buyer, has launched HBCyoU Dolls, a line of dolls representing historically Black colleges and universities. Available at major retailers like Target and Walmart, the dolls embody the spirit and legacy of HBCUs.
Jones spoke to rolling out, discussing her business journey and inspiration.
What made you want to start a doll line?
I’m originally from Dallas, but I attended Hampton University. I should back up and say that I’m a third-generation HBCU alum, so it’s been a part of my life growing up. Just the true love and respect for the history and the legacy of HBCUs. I’m a former toy buyer and lifelong doll lover. It just came together initially when I was looking for a gift to purchase for someone during the pandemic. I thought that an HBCU cheerleader would be such a good gift and went to search for it but couldn’t find it. I was shocked and said, “With all my love, passion, and background, why don’t I start this brand?” And here we are.
How does Purpose Toys play a role in the creations?
I was fortunate for them to reach out to me. I was doing it on my own during the pandemic. I crafted them myself before shipping them out. They reached out to me and said they loved the concept. They also asked if I wanted to scale the business or if I needed more resources — and I did. I decided to partner with them, and with their relationships, connections, and resources, I was able to launch in stores in the fall of 2022. We’re going into our second holiday season, and we’re excited.
Were any of the dolls modeled after people you know?
Each doll is named after someone important in my life. Alyssa is my first cousin; Hope is my sister; Autumn is my niece; and Nicole is my best friend. The leadership positions and interests don’t reflect each person. There’s a little bit in there of each person, but it’s not specifically each person in my life. We wanted it to represent the main iconic figures within HBCU culture. Majorettes are huge; our cheerleaders are legendary; and social activism has always played a part in HBCUs, from the beginning and the pageantry of homecoming courts and queens at HBCUs. The courts could probably rival the British monarchy.
Were any of the dolls modeled after people you know?
Each doll is named after someone important in my life. Alyssa is my first cousin; Hope is my sister; Autumn is my niece; and Nicole is my best friend. The leadership positions and interests don’t reflect each person. There’s a little bit in there of each person, but it’s not specifically each person in my life. We wanted it to represent the main iconic figures within HBCU culture. Majorettes are huge; our cheerleaders are legendary; and social activism has always played a part in HBCUs, from the beginning and the pageantry of homecoming courts and queens at HBCUs. The courts could probably rival the British monarchy.
When it comes to HBCUs, how has it shaped you into the leader and business owner you are today?
Attending an HBCU is probably one of the top three decisions I’ve ever made. Just the support you get from the university and the lifelong friends you make. This idea started from trying to find a gift for a former classmate’s daughter. Through this process, I’ve leaned on them for advice, expertise, or assistance. It’s shaped me a lot. I have some classmates who are doing some amazing things, and it’s inspiring.
