Meet Chaka Cotton, a trailblazing entrepreneur and beauty industry mogul whose journey is a testament to creativity, resilience, and passion. Starting her career at just 12 years old, Chaka has built an empire that not only redefines beauty standards but also empowers others to reach their full potential. From navigating the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic with her innovative “Underground Railroad” initiative to becoming a licensed Continuing Education provider, Chaka’s people-centered approach has earned her a loyal clientele and a stellar reputation. Now embarking on a new chapter in Atlanta, she’s set to continue her mission of inspiring beauty professionals and uplifting her community through her groundbreaking work.
Your entrepreneurial journey began at just 12 years old. What sparked your passion for the beauty industry at such a young age, and how did you navigate the early challenges of starting a business?
Chaka: Creativity sparked in my mind. I used to stare at people and picture what they would look like with totally revamped hair styles. Im not quite sure why it all happened, but my mind would calculate each step from origin to completion.
The Covid-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for many businesses. What inspired you to launch the “Underground Railroad” initiative, and how did it reshape your approach to customer service and safety during the crisis?
Chaka: I had a chance to see in real time how negatively the impact was on my clientele. Not financially for me, but for them, it became an emotional distress not having the therapeutic counsel that would naturally take place while being in the chair; The physical health of their scalp and hair together took a hit from lack of and or improper care, depression, lack of self confidence because of their appearance, and the list goes on…. We decided to pray and step out on faith as we created the “underground railroad” for our clients. This allowed us to help as much as we possibly could. Considering we have always been big on customer service, cleanliness, and safety, there wasn’t much of anything to shift.
As a licensed Continuing Education provider, you’ve made it a priority to help fellow beauty professionals stay ahead of trends. Why is ongoing education so critical in the beauty industry, and how do you see the future of beauty education evolving?
Chaka: As a beauty Professional, you never want to get left behind. The importance of “trending” is a direct reflection of your client books staying filled, or wide open. I see trends go in and out of style in a revolving motion. It’s best to “be in the know “ and practice instead of having your work like “dated”. This is sure to tell clients that you have not evolved in your craft.
Your approach to beauty goes beyond physical appearance — you emphasize self-esteem and empowerment. How do you create personalized experiences that help your clients feel their best both inside and out?
Chaka: I personally like to pay attention to detail. There is no “one formula fits all” type of situation, so actually listen to my clients. I ask them to tell me their desires, and dislikes. I listen for areas of weakness in order to give the proper support, and upon us learning each other, they trust my character and KNOW, that I won’t give any advice outside of what God has LED me to give them.
Relocating your business to Atlanta marks a new chapter in your career. What excites you the most about this new phase, and what are your plans for growing your influence in a new market?
Chaka: What excites me the most is watching God’s plan unfold before my eyes. I have always been a veery calculated person, so to LET GO, and let God fully take the wheel is an adrenaline rush for me! My plan is to walk blindfolded… (by faith)
Your career is a testament to resilience and creativity. Can you share a moment when you felt particularly tested in your business journey, and how you overcame that challenge?
Chaka: My business, in its entirety, has been built from TRIAL & ERROR, all while having faith that God would see it through! I’ve had so many times when my business hit rock bottom, but there was always a “Ram in the Bush” that brought new strategies, new teams, and revenue.
The beauty industry has historically been a space where certain beauty standards are emphasized. How are you redefining those standards, and what impact do you hope this has on the industry and your clients?
Chaka: I don’t play by the rules. I live outside of “standards” as I create whatever is needed to boost my clients self esteem, or display my creative genius! The moment I stopped looking for approval is the moment my business flourished.
You’ve built a loyal client base with your people-centric approach. In a world where technology often dominates, what strategies do you use to maintain meaningful connections with your clients?
Chaka: There is no technology that can ever compete with real emotion and or affection that is exchanged as customer relations are built.
What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs, especially women of color, who are looking to break into the beauty industry or start their own businesses?
Chaka: Be true to who you are as an individual. When you do what you love, your clients will be the recipient of your excellence. Also, don’t be afraid to invest in yourself . Having a mentor to navigate you through the obstacles can be the difference of a 6 month business vs a 16 year business
As you look ahead, what trends or innovations in the beauty industry are you most excited about, and how do you plan to incorporate them into your business model?
Chaka: Let’s just say that I love every facet of the Beauty Industry, and I am here for it all!
Connect Online:
Kommentare