Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration as a beauty entrepreneur comes from my upbringing, my culture, and the way beauty was represented in my life growing up. I was raised in a family that didn’t have a lot financially, but we had love, closeness, and pride in who we were. Even though we grew up in poverty, I learned early on that beauty was not about having the most expensive things. Beauty was about taking what you had and making the best of it. It was about confidence, creativity, and self-expression.

How do you stay motivated?

It’s certainly not easy, but my faith is so big, growing up in poverty, I learned the value of hard work, resilience, and creativity. I remember the vision I have for where I’m going. I draw motivation from my love for Black Culture and Beauty. Also, my family and community keeps me grounded.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would invest it directly into growing my beauty business, Keara Janay Luxury Hair Co. a portion would go towards expanding inventory for luxury extensions, haircare products, enhancing my salon experience. I would additionally invest in marketing and branding to reach more people. I want to start my own program to help other young girls who may be thinking about entering the beauty industry. This win would not just grow my business, it would help me create the legacy I’m building.