Founders Madame EJ Blackman and Kaiya Blackman at BBI backdrop with wigs
Our Story

About Butterflies
by Blaq Inc.

1 / 10
Our Story

Born from Compassion, Built on Love

Founded in 2012 by Madame EJ Blackman and Co-Founder Kaiya Blackman, Butterflies by Blaq Inc. was established to address the needs of children suffering from hair loss due to medical conditions and treatments — with special consideration given to inner-city children and children of various ethnicities, who are often a greatly overlooked group due to the special needs of their hair.

At Butterflies BBI, after application approval, each client receives individualized customer service and complete confidentiality — because we understand that no two children or situations are alike. Our goal is to help restore normalcy and promote a sense of well-being while children deal with their personal illnesses and conditions.

We believe that raising the self-esteem of our disadvantaged youth now can help brighten their futures, and we'd like to be given the chance to help lighten their load and Make A Difference.

Servicing the NY Tri-State Area & Beyond!

Founded in 2012 by Madame EJ Blackman & Kaiya Blackman
Home & hospital visits
Serving all ethnicities — and boys too
100% free — no cost to families ever
Flexible scheduling for caregivers
BBBI Logo

Butterflies by Blaq Inc.

501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization

Tens of $1,000s

in Free Wigs Provided

46+

States Reached

14+

Years of Service

100%

Free — No Cost to Families

What Drives Us

Mission & Vision

Our Mission

Butterflies BBI exists to make support easier for families navigating medical hair loss — providing personalized hair replacement services, flexible care, and confidence-restoring resources directly to the children who need them most. We proudly serve all ethnicities and boys too, ensuring every child receives a personalized look that reflects their identity, culture, and natural beauty.

Our Vision

A world where no child's confidence is diminished by hair loss. We envision a future where every child — regardless of their medical journey — has access to the support, resources, and care they need to thrive and live fully.

What We Stand For

Our Core Values

Compassion First

Every family we serve is met with warmth, dignity, and genuine care. We see the child, not just the condition.

Restoring Confidence

We believe every child deserves to walk into a room feeling beautiful, proud, and fully themselves.

No Barriers

Cost should never stand between a child and their confidence. Every wig provided is 100% free — no cost to families ever.

Whole-Child Wellness

Hair loss affects the mind and spirit too. We address emotional well-being alongside physical solutions.

Our Journey

A Decade of Impact

2012

Butterflies By Blaq Inc. Founded

Founded by Madame EJ Blackman and Co-Founder Kaiya Blackman to provide free hair replacements to children experiencing medical hair loss due to cancer, alopecia, and other medical conditions.

2015

Congressional Achievement Award

Butterflies BBI and founder Madame EJ Blackman received a Congressional Achievement Award recognizing their outstanding community service, advocacy, and impact on children and families experiencing medical hair loss.

2020

New York City Proclamation & Recognition

Butterflies BBI received an official New York City Proclamation and recognition at City Hall honoring the organization's commitment to serving children and families impacted by medical hair loss.

Sep 2022

Queens Power Woman Honoree

Founder Madame EJ Blackman was honored as a Queens Power Woman for her leadership, service, and community impact.

Jan 2023

Brooklyn Power List Honoree

Madame EJ Blackman was recognized on the Brooklyn Power List for her continued work empowering underserved communities.

May 2024

Schneps Media Healthcare Hero Honoree

Butterflies BBI and founder Madame EJ Blackman were honored as Healthcare Heroes for their dedication to restoring confidence and emotional wellness to children experiencing medical hair loss.

Jan 2025

Nonprofit of the Night — Barclays Center

Butterflies BBI was recognized as the official Nonprofit of the Night during the Brooklyn Nets vs. New York Knicks game at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.

2025

Launch of Blaq Butterflies Wellness Boutique

Launch of the BB Wellness Boutique and luxury wellness line supporting caregiver wellness and children experiencing medical hair loss through "Luxury With Purpose."

Ongoing Achievements

Provided tens of thousands of dollars in free hair replacements to children and families
Partnered with hospitals and healthcare professionals
Expanded culturally conscious custom hair replacement options for underserved communities
Introduced the "Teens for Teens" Wig-Making & Empowerment Program
Featured across multiple television, print, and digital media platforms
Continued advocacy for emotional wellness, confidence restoration, and caregiver support

"Turning compassion into confidence — one child, one family, one butterfly at a time."

What Sets Us Apart

More Than a Service

We go beyond hair replacements — we meet families where they are, on their terms.

Press & Media

In the News & On the Air

BBBI's mission has been recognized and featured by leading media outlets across the country.

ABC7CBS NewsHuffPostNewsdayNY1PIX11Long Island Business NewsThe CommunicatorFM 103.9Queens ChronicleFM 94.7QNS.com
BBBI media coverage collage featuring ABC7, CBS, HuffPost, Newsday, NY1, Queens Chronicle, Nash FM 94.7, The Communicator and more

Ready to Make a Difference?

Whether you're a family in need, a medical professional, or someone who wants to support our mission — we'd love to connect with you.