About Us — Binya HHI

Binya Hilton Head Celebrates Lowcountry & Gullah Culture

“The Gullah culture is something to celebrate! I created the retail store, Binya, and clothing brand, Gone Gullah, to educate and inspire people of all races and generations about our heritage.”
-Founder, Lola Campbell

Meet our founder, Lola Campbell

Born and raised on Hilton Head into one of the oldest native families in the Spanish Wells community, Omolola “Lola” Campbell is of Gullah descent.

Her great-grandfather was The Rev. Solomon Campbell, who was the grandson of an enslaved man living on Hilton Head during the Union capture of HHI in 1861. He was thought to be the first Gullah teacher born and raised on the island. Her grandfather, Solomon Campbell, Jr., was an early craftsman of boats and homes on Hilton Head. Growing up in the Lowcountry, Lola developed a deep respect and admiration for the stories of her elders and seeks to spread this respect.

Lola graduated from The University of Georgia and Howard University School of Law. She’s a writer and poet with a self-published book, an entrepreneur, and works as senior derivatives counsel for a major financial institution. She loves spending time on the island with her nine year old son, Jaylen.

Why We Celebrate Gullah Heritage

Descendants of Western Africans, native Gullah Geechee were people enslaved on the rice and cotton plantations of the southeast coast between 1750 and 1865. They were pioneers of soulful music, beautiful basketweaving and art, resourceful and delicious cooking, and even democracy.

Many Gullah people were part of the historic Mitchellville, known today as the first self-governed town for enslaved Americans. Mitchelville was a template for democracy, long before the concept of equality was considered, and Mitchelville is known today as the place where freedom began.

Many of the “southern” traditions that we have today are highly influenced by the Gullah people. For these reasons, we can ALL celebrate Gullah heritage and culture for the tremendous impact it has had on who we are.

Visit us on social media for our education series where we talk about the Gullah people, our traditions, and why keeping them alive are so important. You will also learn about important Gullah people — past and present.

Visit us on Facebook and Instagram!