The BLK Originals™ is a Black owned creative agency founded by two HBCU graduates. We pride ourselves on genuine storytelling through research + ideation and design.

We create solutions that communicate with audiences authentically and forge partnerships based on trust, not clout.
CEO Sam Hoggs
Sam Hoggs

co-founder +
chief executive officer

Sam Hoggs is a graduate of Winston Salem State University. During his time at Winston is where he nurtured his love for media, design and business. Bringing new energy to the campus, Sam launched Sole Quest, his first venture in the sneaker space hosting exhibitions and curating other culture-forward work.

After graduating, he went on to work for Nike and then Complex Networks where he worked in brand partnerships & led the company’s Black employee resource group.

At TBO, Sam leads Creative Partnerships, where he  finds opportunities to amplify Black stories. He’s an avid NBA fan, coffee drinker and down-to-earth guy.

sam@theblkoriginals.com
Creative Director Jas Alston
Jas Alston

co-founder + creative director

Jas is a graduate  of North Carolina Central University, and also received her master’s from Bethune-Cookman University. During her college career, not only did Jas play basketball, she also discovered a passion for art and design.

She was able to find space for sports and design by working for Nike, and went on to become the Creative Director for Bethune-Cookman University-Athletics, University of Oregon-Football and most recently for Footlocker, Inc.

At TBO, she leads creative direction and design  to help clients tell their stories authentically. She's also an advocate for HBCUs, enjoys binge watching series, scrolling Instagram and buying kicks!

jasmine@theblkoriginals.com