Vision That Speaks Volumes: How Vontélle Is Redefining Eyewear with Confidence, Culture, and Clarity

An interview with founders Tracy Green and Nancey Harris

When Tracy Green and Nancey Harris repeatedly found themselves frustrated by lost or ill-fitting glasses, they didn’t just solve a personal problem—they sparked a revolution. As co-founders of Vontélle, the first Black women-owned eyewear company to land national partnerships with Nickelodeon and National Vision Inc., the duo is not only transforming an industry but reclaiming space that has long excluded diverse facial features, cultural influences, and personal stories.

In this candid conversation, they reflect on building a brand after 50, prioritizing mental wellness as entrepreneurs, and staying rooted in heritage without compromising vision.

From Frustration to Innovation

What inspired you to transform your frustration of losing your own eyeglasses into a full-fledged business, especially one that champions Black culture and heritage?

Tracy & Nancey:

They say, “Necessity is the mother of invention,” and losing our glasses became the catalyst for a much larger mission. It wasn’t just about solving our own frustrations—it was about filling a major gap in the market.

We saw that eyewear was mostly one-dimensional in design: narrow nose bridges, short temples, lenses that didn’t suit our faces. And beyond the fit, there was no representation—no eyewear that celebrated the vibrant patterns, textures, and heritage of Black culture.

Vontélle was born from our desire to offer something bold, meaningful, and inclusive. Every frame tells a story rooted in African and Latin Diaspora designs. Our mission is not just about better-fitting glasses—it’s about reclaiming space in an industry where we’ve long been overlooked.

Breaking Barriers and Making History

What does it mean to you, both personally and professionally, to be the first Black women-owned eyewear company to secure partnerships with Nickelodeon and National Vision Inc.?

Tracy & Nancey:

It’s both humbling and exhilarating. Personally, it represents years of perseverance and the power of staying true to our vision. Professionally, it validates our belief that inclusivity and culture matter in every industry—including fashion and optics.

These partnerships allow us to reach broader audiences—especially children and families—with products that are both functional and culturally expressive. It’s proof that authentic stories and representation resonate. And more than being the first, our focus is on ensuring we’re not the last.

Seasoned and Strategic: The Power of 50+

How has being over 50 influenced your business approach and what unique strengths do you bring to entrepreneurship at this stage in life?

Tracy & Nancey:

We bring clarity, resilience and the ability to trust our instincts. Decades of life and professional experience have taught us how to pivot, build strong relationships and make decisions aligned with purpose—not just profit.

We know who we are. We’re not just building a brand; we’re building a legacy that champions inclusion and leaves room at the table for others.

Advice for Disruptors

Many luxury brands have historically ignored diverse perspectives. What advice would you give to other Black women looking to disrupt industries where representation is lacking?

Tracy & Nancey:

Start by owning your story. Here’s what we’ve learned:

• Identify the Gap & Own Your Space. Your unique experiences are your advantage.

• Build a Network. Surround yourself with mentors and allies who support your vision.

• Stay Resilient. Your presence alone challenges norms—don’t back down.

• Educate Yourself. Know the industry inside and out.

• Be the Change. Open doors for others as you climb.

Disruption isn’t just entry—it’s transformation.

Confidence Is a Lens We Choose

Your eyewear is all about confidence. How have you cultivated confidence in your personal lives and how has it shaped your journey as entrepreneurs?

Tracy & Nancey:

Confidence comes from embracing who we are and where we come from. We’ve weathered personal and professional storms—and that resilience grounds us.

As entrepreneurs, confidence helped us step into an industry that wasn’t designed for us and say, “We belong here.” It’s what allowed us to take risks, speak boldly and inspire others to see themselves—literally and figuratively—more clearly.

The Foundation of Vontélle: A Journey Rooted in Experience

Before starting Vontélle, what were your careers and how did those experiences prepare you to build a luxury eyewear brand?

Tracy:

Fashion was my first love, but I was also good with numbers. I earned a master’s, became a CFO, ran a tax business and invested in real estate. All of it taught me how to manage money, scale ideas and build from scratch.

Nancey:

I studied mass communications and built a career at major networks like BET, MTV and Nickelodeon. Later, I led Wendy Williams Productions and The Hunter Foundation. My background taught me how to market, connect with audiences and lead with creativity and intention.

Together, our paths formed the perfect foundation for Vontélle.

Lessons from the Unexpected

What’s been the most unexpected lesson you’ve learned since starting Vontélle?

Tracy:

We had to get up to speed on social media marketing fast! I took a course and learned the ins and outs of engaging digital audiences. It reminded me: always be willing to learn what you don’t know.

Nancey:

I learned to ask the right questions and never assume. Protect your brand, your time and your value. And walk away from deals that don’t align with your mission. Clarity is key.

Wellness in the Workplace

Entrepreneurship can be demanding. How do you maintain your mental health while navigating the challenges of running a business?

Tracy:

I live with a rare form of diabetes, so prioritizing health is essential. I now set boundaries and aim to follow a schedule—even if business sometimes overrides it.

Nancey:

I’m learning to truly unplug and set work hours. In 2025, I’m taking a real family vacation. We know that scaling our business requires protecting our peace first.

Advice for Fellow Dreamers

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs, particularly Black women and women of color, about prioritizing their well-being while pursuing ambitious goals?

Tracy & Nancey:

Wellness isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Give yourself grace. Create daily self-care rituals, however small. Set firm boundaries. Seek support and don’t be afraid to delegate. Celebrate the journey as much as the wins. When you care for yourself, you’re better equipped to care for your vision.

Non-Negotiables in Business

In the spirit of More Confidence, Less Compromise (the theme from our April 2025 issue), what is one compromise you refused to make and how did it impact your path?

Tracy & Nancey:

We refused to compromise on culture. Every Vontélle design celebrates heritage. That choice made us stand out and helped attract aligned partnerships. It also built an authentic connection with our community. Success shouldn’t require sacrificing your identity.

Legacy in a Single Sentence

If you had to describe the legacy you hope Vontélle will leave behind in one sentence, what would it be?

Tracy & Nancey:

We hope Vontélle’s legacy will be one of empowerment, innovation and cultural celebration—redefining the eyewear industry with inclusive, bold designs that honor diversity and inspire confidence for generations to come.

Vontélle’s Theme Song

Here’s a fun one—if Vontélle had a theme song, what would it be?

Tracy & Nancey:

Bruno Mars’ “24K Magic.” It’s fun, luxurious and unapologetically confident—just like us. The vibe is vibrant, the energy is contagious and it perfectly captures what Vontélle is all about: seeing the world boldly and stylishly.

 

Tracy and Nancey are proof that visionaries don’t just create products—they create movements. With bold frames, a clear mission and a whole lot of magic, Vontélle is helping people everywhere see themselves—and their heritage—more clearly.

To learn more about Vontélle and their mission, visit vontelle.com.