Janell Stephen has taken the world of natural hair products by storm. Her brand Camille Rose brand is sold in over 100,000 retail stores across the country and is the epitome of Black excellence.
How do you feel seeing natural hair is making its way back to the forefront of the black culture?
I am extremely proud to see how we are loving and embracing our natural tresses and rocking it with confidence. The thicker the mane, the bigger the fro, the tightest coils, the shrinkage and the curls have all made us feel empowered and inspired to love and accept our beauty.
Your product is available in retail chains across the country, what has been the key to your success?
The key to my success has been due to me trying to compete with myself and no-one else. I grew at my own pace and did not try to keep up with anyone else. My vision for what I have always wanted for Camille Rose was never cloudy. I knew exactly what I wanted to do and where I wanted to take the company without having any doubts or fears. If your heart tells you yes then no one one else can tell you no.
After overcoming so many adversities and challenges, share with us the biggest lesson learned.
One of the biggest lessons learned during my growth was that it is ok to say no. Your no can later become your yes. If you try to step out of what feels right to you and start listening to others who think they have the formula, then you are doubting yourself. I had to my gut and stop looking to others as the expert to my vision.
What is the most common mistake entrepreneurs make when launching a brand?
The most common mistake I feel they make is that they try to grow to fast. They may feel that if they don’t move fast then the opportunity may not come again.
This is not the case! Your steps need to be ordered from the beginning. If they are not ordered then you can’t be confident in your master plan.
Why did you decided to source your ingredients from Africa as opposed to other places?
My ingredients are carefully sourced from many exotic places not just Africa. We use a lot of Ayuredic herbs in many of our blends. These herbs are know to strengthen the hair and stimulate the follicles.
Do you feel there’s an inherent responsibility to educate and inspire young black girl to pursue their entrepreneurship ambitions?
Absolutely. If you have what it takes to brand and grow your concept then you must help pave the way for others that will come behind you. The cycle must continue in order for us to be stronger as a culture and as females.
BE’N ORIGINAL
