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Business of Beauty

  • 7381 La Tijera Boulevard Los Angeles, CA, 90045 United States (map)

Please join the Los Angeles Chapter of the National Black MBA Association, California Black Health Network, and Mary Louise Cosmetics in a celebration of beauty in recognition of the 5th anniversary of the CROWN Act, also known as the “Black Hair Independence Day,” the unofficial holiday celebrates Afro-textured hair - or the tight curls, coils and kinks most often associated with Black and indigenous people of color.

We will have a powerful discussion on entrepreneurship, the beauty and hair industries, hair health being a part of self-identity, diversity and why it’s important, and so much more!

Speakers:

🪮 Akilah Releford Gould: Akilah is the founder and CEO of Mary Louise Cosmetics, a beauty brand renowned for its natural and effective skincare solutions. Inspired by her grandmother's beauty secrets, Akilah launched the company to blend traditional remedies with modern science.

🪮 Felicia Leatherwood (Website): Felicia is a renowned celebrity hairstylist, natural hair advocate, and entrepreneur (Brush With The Best by Felicia Leatherwood). Her work has graced red carpets, magazine covers, and major events. She is passionate about empowering women through hair care education.

🪮 Larry J. Sims (Website): Larry is a celebrity hairstylist, the hair architect behind Victoria Beckham’s “bob,” and his innovative approach to beauty. His client list includes A-list celebrities, and he has contributed to numerous fashion editorials and runway shows.

🪮 Hannah Diop: Hannah wears several hats--MBA holder, mom of two, and mastermind of Sienna Naturals. Hannah is raising the bar and setting a new standard for high-performance, clean haircare in an industry with a history of ingredients that compromise the health of our hair, scalp, and body.


Moderator:

🪮 Janine Rubenstein | Janine is an award-winning journalist (Editor-at-large at PEOPLE Magazine | PEOPLE.com, podcast and host). Her insightful interviews have made her a respected voice in the entertainment and beauty world.

Don't miss this this opportunity to hear from a panel full of powerhouses, plus the first 50 guests receive swag from Sienna Naturals, Dr. Bonners, Hair Confidence, and more!

Earlier Event: April 30
Corporate Partner Reception
Later Event: August 24
Headshots & Handshakes