My siblings and I began researching hair and skin care solutions after years of struggling with products that didn't work for our hair types. This was the year I decided to do the big chop because I simply wanted a change. It was a pivotal moment that sparked our determination to find better, healthier alternatives for natural hair care. We spent countless hours researching ingredients, reading studies, and understanding what our hair and skin truly needed. This research phase taught us about the importance of gentle, nourishing ingredients and how conventional products often contained harsh chemicals that could damage both hair and sensitive skin.

These were transformative yet challenging years. I was exploring business options and learning the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, but the COVID-19 pandemic brought unexpected obstacles. Like many small businesses, we had to close temporarily due to limited support and the economic uncertainty. However, 2022 brought personal clarity when I was diagnosed with autism and ADHD. This diagnosis was actually liberating - it helped me understand my sensory sensitivities and why certain textures, sounds, and experiences felt overwhelming. I began researching coping mechanisms specifically for people with tender scalps and sensitivities around hair washing. This personal journey opened my eyes to how many people, especially children, struggle with sensory challenges during hair care routines. It became clear that the beauty industry was missing products designed with sensory needs in mind.

2023 was a year of profound personal growth and professional development. I became a foster carer, which deepened my understanding of children's diverse needs and the importance of creating safe, comfortable environments. Surviving meningitis was a life-changing experience that reinforced my commitment to health and wellness. During my recovery, I qualified as a barber, which gave me hands-on experience with different hair types and textures. Working directly with clients, I witnessed firsthand the gap in the market for healthy, environmentally friendly, multi-use products that could work effectively for all hair types and textures. I saw how many people struggled to find products that were both effective and gentle, especially those with sensitive skin or specific hair care needs. This professional experience, combined with my personal journey, solidified my vision for creating truly inclusive hair care products.

I discovered that it isn’t the how of hair care that children struggle with, but the lack of understanding around why their hair is being done. I also qualified as a hairdresser and used that knowledge to refocus the brand on sensory-safe, inclusive solutions. That same year, I was recognised as the finalist for E-Commerce Trailblazer of the Year at the BizWomen Awards, proudly introduced the brand to the Prime Minister of Jamaica, and officially joined the Buy Women Built community.

Joining the NatWest Accelerator program was a game-changer that completely reshaped our vision and drive. The program provided invaluable mentorship, resources, and connections that helped us refine our business model and expand our reach. Being featured in a NatWest advert was an incredible honor that brought national attention to our mission of creating sensory-safe, inclusive hair care products. We successfully completed markets with NatWest and Melanin Market, which allowed us to connect directly with our target audience and receive real-time feedback on our products. These market experiences were invaluable for understanding customer needs and preferences. Throughout the year, we significantly expanded our collaborations with community events, local makers, and organizations that support parents and children. These partnerships helped us build a strong network of advocates and allowed us to reach families who could benefit most from our sensory-safe approach to hair care.

Our goal for 2026 is to launch the Official True Beauty app, a groundbreaking digital platform featuring inclusive characters designed to teach parents and children about sensory-safe hair care routines. The app will include interactive tutorials, personalised routine builders, and educational content that helps families understand the 'why' behind gentle hair care practices. We're designing characters that represent diverse backgrounds, hair types, and sensory needs, ensuring every child can see themselves reflected in our educational content. The app will also feature progress tracking, reminder systems, and rewards to make hair care routines more enjoyable and less stressful for both children and parents. Alongside the app launch, we plan to continue expanding our collaborations with charities, schools, and independent retailers who share our commitment to inclusive, accessible hair care solutions.

Our vision is to create the first Official True Beauty Soft Play + Salon Space — a safe, sensory-aware environment where neurodivergent children can feel comfortable, play freely, and experience hair care without trauma. The space will also host parent sessions and workshops, supporting families with practical guidance and routines. Alongside this, we aim to partner with larger retailers and international stockists, and collaborate with researchers and health organisations to set new standards for inclusive, sensory-safe hair and skincare. By this stage, Official True Beauty will be recognised as a leading inclusive beauty brand – built on lived experience, research, and collaboration.