Tompkins Avenue Merchant Association (TAMA)
About Tompkins Avenue Merchant Association (TAMA)
The Tompkins Avenue Merchant Association (TAMA) is dedicated to strengthening and sustaining small businesses along Tompkins Avenue in Brooklyn, New York. Founded in 2006 by Bridge Street Development Corporation, TAMA works hands on with local merchants to provide the tools, resources, and advocacy needed for business success. Through community driven initiatives, including our annual NYC Weekend Walks, TAMA SummerFest, Tompkins Open Streets, and Small Business Crawls, which draws over 10,000 supporters each year. we promote economic growth, neighborhood pride, and a vibrant commercial corridor rooted in
local culture.
Interested in learning more?
Committed to helping our merchants achieve their dreams
Rotimi Akinnuoye
TAMA President 2026 -Present
Rotimi Akinnuoye is a co-founder and driving force behind Bed-Vyne, a trio of beloved community spots in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, beginning with Bed-Vyne Wine & Spirits in 2011. He helped grow Bed-Vyne Brew and Bed-Vyne Cocktail into neighborhood institutions celebrated for inclusivity, cultural events, and curated selections, advancing community empowerment and education.
A Nigerian immigrant, Rotimi previously worked in biotech sales, real estate, and nightlife before Bed-Vyne, always aiming to create something meaningful for the community. Currently, he serves as the board chair of the Bedford-Stuyvesant YMCA and sits on the YMCA of Greater New York board. He also supports other local nonprofits, including the Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation, continuing his work in community building and resource development for New Yorkers.
As a leader and president of the Tompkins Avenue Merchant Association, Rotimi brings a proven track record in coalition-building, program development, community engagement, and strategic partnerships. He will leverage his experience in small-business ecosystems, nonprofit governance, and inclusive cultural programming to strengthen local commerce, foster collaboration among merchants, and advocate for resources and opportunities that benefit Tompkins Avenue and its vibrant community.
Ayo Agbede
TAMA Vice President 2026 -Present
Former Secretary of Treasury 2020 to 2025
Owner of Brooklyn Kettle
Melinda Shaw
TAMA -Secretary of Treasury 2026 -Present
C0 - owner of Why Hate Math
Khadija Tudor
TAMA Secretary 2026 Present
Owner of Life Wellness Center