UMOJA: Unity

Tin City is unlike any other shop in the neighborhood. Its sea blue and white decor is a can't-miss on Lewis Avenue. Its soda fountain in the front of the store and its selection of all-natural Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream give it an old-school general store feel.

But what makes the shop at 366 Lewis Avenue a real gem on the developing strip is that it is completely owned and operated by a family who overcame the obstacles of a stiff economy.

Almost a year ago, Saratu Nafziger was let go from the law firm where she worked as an attorney because of the recession. She put her undergraduate degree in business to use and started brainstorming ideas for a new business that would benefit the community.

As a Bedford-Stuyvesant resident, she noticed that many of her fellow residents had to travel outside of the community if they wanted organic and eco-friendly products. So, Nafziger decided she would create a store that would fulfill this need. Saratu turned to her younger brother, Tim Nafziger, who would handle the day-to-day management of the store.

"She asked me if I wanted to be apart of it, and my family was already here. So I thought 'hey, why not?'" said the younger brother.

Saratu Nafziger said they all made financial sacrifices and pooled their money, including investments from their parents, to help build the store without the use of bank loans. Their older brother John, who is an architect, constructed the store's design.

Together, the family used its individual talents to open Tin City this July. The store is named after the family's hometown in Jos, Nigeria, where the primary industry is tin.

Patrons of tin city are met at the entrance by the sweet aroma of apple cinnamon. Fresh produce such as red delicious apples, yams, and bananas, line the front of the store's hardwood floors. Shelves against the white walls stock everything from magazines to organic bath and body products, organic foods and eco-friendly diapers.

"What makes us different from other stores like us, is that we offer office services and more specialty, high-end beauty [items] that people can use for gifts," said Tim Nafziger.

"Everyone is really happy to see us here. We have the neighborhood vibe and friendly people working here. We're pretty much a part of the community and we have that personal touch," he said.

Soon the store will be going through renovations so that they can begin serving hot food and sandwiches.