Foreward: I met Sade during Harlem Week. She was one of many that day trying to sell something she cared about. Maybe it was the energy in the streets, it being one of my first outings officially moving to Harlem or the fact that Sade’s warmth and kindness reminded me of home that I ended up buying her products and wanting to try more at her store. Sade offered to meet at her store and even opening up the shop early to accommodate my work schedule. When we met the following days we naturally hit it off. She pulled me into her world, playing Ebeneezer Obey the whole time, we talked about life, romances, music and even the challenges of trying to leave an impact in this big world. She told me her story behind her products and the “labor of love” behind it all. From her story I felt compelled to just take her picture. I hope that you can see her the way I see her. From the eyes of an “Aburo” (younger sister) who sees her Big Sister who, despite it all, can still dance and smile creating a beauty of joy that is unique only to her and her story. TP
For over four decades, I have navigated the intricate landscape of the makeup and skincare industry, a journey deeply rooted in my experiences as a woman of color from West Africa. In those early days, corporate entities largely overlooked the importance of marketing directly to people of color. I recognized a significant gap, one that needed to be filled, driven by my belief that beauty transcends complexion and cultural boundaries.
Growing up, I was blissfully unaware of the differences my skin tone might impose on me. In my Yoruba Ifa culture, a person's worth was determined by their character rather than their outward appearance. This perspective shaped my understanding of beauty as something holistic, intertwined with identity and essence. The Ifa philosophy teaches that balance is essential: good cannot exist without its opposite. This ideology resonates deeply within me, pushing me to embrace the complexity of identity and beauty.
Throughout my journey in this diaspora, I have encountered flaws and challenges, but it is through acknowledging these imperfections that I have found redemption. The strength of women of color has always been formidable, yet it often feels taken for granted. We have been placed in positions where our resilience is used against us, fostering self-doubt and fear. In many communities, anger has been perceived as a justified response to the inequities we face. However, I urge my sisters to recognize this cycle and resist the urge to succumb to resentment.
In a culture that frequently devalues our physical manifestations, I believe the most profound resistance lies in nurturing our inner joy. This joy, a universal gift from the Creator, is a form of power that no one can take away. Love, the most potent energy, has the ability to dispel negativity and elevate our spirits. Yet, the journey toward conquering fear is fraught with challenges. While clarity often emerges from overcoming fear, it can become a double-edged sword if not coupled with self-awareness. We must remember that the absence of fear does not automatically equate to well-being.
Power, untempered by humility, can blind us to our vulnerabilities. It is crucial to approach our strength with an understanding of our limitations and a recognition of our shared humanity. We are not alone in our struggles; comparison and envy can cloud our vision, but they are common hurdles we face. As we age, we realize that the true adversary we confront is not one another but the inescapable reality of mortality.
Thus, I encourage everyone to embrace life fully, to celebrate the present, and to find joy in the journey. Let us skip the superficial pursuits and instead delve into what truly matters—self-acceptance, love, and the acknowledgment of our shared experiences. In doing so, we can carve out a space where we honor our identities, our strengths, and our beauty, not just as women of color but as individuals worthy of love and respect.
As I reflect on my four decades in this industry, I am reminded that our stories are woven together by resilience, love, and the enduring quest for balance. Let us continue to uplift one another, embracing both our flaws and our strengths as we navigate this beautiful tapestry of life.
