Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration stems from my late mother and grandmother, both beauty professionals who shaped my journey. My grandmother crafted homemade pressing oil as a hairstylist, and my mother followed as a licensed hairstylist and makeup artist. Their passion drives me to uplift underrepresented beauty professionals, especially women, by providing the support they lacked. Reflecting on their challenges inspires my commitment to fostering resilience and empowerment in the beauty industry.

How do you stay motivated?

My motivation comes from a deep sense of purpose: honoring my legacy, nurturing what my co-founder & I have built, serving our community, & empowering underrepresented beauty professionals. Witnessing AHNI Beauty’s impact and creating opportunities for others fuel my determination to overcome challenges. The heartfelt love and feedback from our customers inspire me daily, and my children, now aspiring entrepreneurs themselves, remind me that our work is shaping an empowered future.

What would you do with the $25,000?

This grant will help us expand our inventory, meeting customer demands while increasing diversity. Currently, over 32% of our stock features Women-, BIPOC-, & locally-owned brands; with this funding, we aim to reach 50% by April 2025. Our mission at AHNI Beauty is to support underrepresented businesses, offer meaningful, clean products, & create a space where customers feel valued—all while recirculating money into the community that supports us the most.