Feel all the feels with us as we celebrate International Women's Day with a candid chat with Boho CEO Lulu Pierre. We reflect on our Black female-owned journey, birthed from a bold decision to take our hair into our own hands and reclaim a predominantly male space.
We discuss power moves, Black empowerment, and the connective joy we share through not just our hair but our journeys too.
It's straight facts that Black women are smashing down barriers like never before. As reported pre-pandemic that Black women represent '42% of new women-owned businesses - three times their share of the female population.'
Yet, this is only the beginning of levelling up the unlevel playing field. We salute all the trailblazing women across the world demanding their voices be heard, while unapologetically challenging the status quo. We see you.
Get to know more about our Founder Lulu with four quick-fire questions:
1. What piece of advice would you tell your younger self now?
'I would tell her to be confident in her ideas and just go for it! After 16 years of being a self-sufficient entrepreneur, I've learnt to not be shy when it comes to your dreams. Learn from the mistakes, be bold and keep going.'
2. This IWD theme is #‘ChooseToChallenge’, what do you aim to challenge or change through Boho Locs?
'I want to change Black hair ownership, as the majority is sold through beauty supply stores or 'hair shops'. Black people do not typically own [the stores] or design all the products, and the profits aren't going to Black people. Yet, the main customers are Black women. I strongly feel we should create the products marketed at us. We deserve the tailored experience, the physical benefits, and the knowledge that comes from community-owned businesses.'
3. Shout out a woman who has empowered you, and how…
'My biggest inspiration, as my team well knows, is Madam C.J. Walker. She's an inspiration because not only was she the first American female millionaire, but she was a Black woman selling hair products. My dad introduced me to her when I was really young and told me, 'you can be like her'. From then on, it stuck with me that if she can, I can.'
4. What has been your greatest lesson in owning a Black female-owned business?
'I've learnt that having a vision and opening up your mind to possibilities is the greatest advantage you can have. If you believe you can achieve it, you can achieve it. Sometimes you can be your own biggest obstacle, but staying positive even in challenges is essential.'
