Inspiring Journey of Mushiya: Founder of Mushiya Beauty
Mushiya, a name synonymous with innovation and leadership in the beauty industry, is a Senior Business Consultant for Zufire and the CEO, Founder, and Creative Director of several successful brands, including Runway Curls Salon Suites, Mushiya Beauty, The Damn Salon, and My Natural Doll. With over 20 years of experience, Mushiya has become a branding guru, setting new trends and standards in the industry, and her influence on beauty professionals is both impactful and undeniable.
A Legacy of Innovation
Born in Congo and educated across Zimbabwe, Missouri, and Montreal, Canada, Mushiya holds a degree in Business and Psychology from Concordia University. Her true passion, however, lies in empowering women and spreading the Natural Hair Movement. As an activist and serial entrepreneur, Mushiya has revolutionized the hair industry, particularly in Atlanta and beyond.
Early Beginnings
Mushiya's entrepreneurial spirit emerged early. At just 13, she started her first business doing hair at home, using the income to fund her education. After graduating, she moved to New York, where she balanced business development for attorney firms with her growing hair business. Her innovative marketing and business strategies led to significant returns for her clients, and she built a lucrative career that allowed her to construct a three-story house at a young age.
Creating a Demand in the Beauty Industry
Recognizing a gap in the market for natural hair care, Mushiya started her journey from her kitchen, leveraging her business development revenue and her husband’s income to build their first salon in the basement of their home. Despite lacking formal training in graphic design and programming, she single-handedly designed her website, created marketing strategies, and invented trademarked styles that rapidly gained a following. Mushiya’s unique ability to create demand for previously non-existent products set the foundation for the Natural Hair Movement.
The Rise of The Damn Salon and Runway Curls
In 2007, Mushiya and her husband, Mr. Smith, launched Salon Tres Belle LLC, known as The Damn Salon. By 2014, the brand had grown significantly, prompting Mr. Smith to join the business full-time as Chief Operating Officer. Together, they transformed Runway Curls and The Damn Salon into internationally recognized brands, attracting clients worldwide.
Their success and popularity led to the hit TV show "Cutting It in the ATL" on WeTV, where Mushiya’s strength, charm, and uniqueness made her a star. The show, watched by millions, further solidified her reputation as a leading figure in the beauty industry.
Expanding the Empire
In 2012, the couple launched the Runway Curls Natural Hair Extension Collection, now among the top three in America. Mushiya became a sought-after presence at panels, runway shows, speaking engagements, and events worldwide. Her prominence earned her features in renowned magazines like Essence, Allure, and Cosmopolitan.
The power couple continued their innovation with the launch of My Natural Doll in 2016, introducing Keleshe, a black baby doll with natural hair, which quickly became a top holiday gift and a symbol of representation in the toy industry.
In addition to her established brands, Mushiya has ventured into new territories with the launch of the Bosses N' Love podcast and Mushiya Cosmetics. The Bosses N' Love podcast, co-hosted with her husband, Mr. Smith, delves into the dynamics of being a power couple in the business world. The podcast offers insights into balancing love and business, providing listeners with valuable advice on maintaining successful relationships while pursuing entrepreneurial goals.
Mushiya Cosmetics, her latest venture, reflects her commitment to beauty and empowerment. This cosmetics line offers high-quality, inclusive products designed to celebrate and enhance natural beauty, further solidifying Mushiya's position as a versatile and influential figure in the beauty industry.
Philanthropy and Community Impact
Beyond business, Mushiya and Mr. Smith are dedicated philanthropists. Through their charity foundation, I Am Strong, they provide makeovers and assistance to homeless children, battered women, and veterans, and support disaster relief efforts. Their community work has earned them numerous accolades, including an Ambassadorship Award from the African American Women in Cinema and recognition from the Mayor of Atlanta and the Haitian Consult.
The Future of Mushiya Beauty
Mushiya and Mr. Smith's vision and leadership continue to inspire and empower others. Their success with Runway Curls Salon Suites offers beauty professionals new opportunities, and their influence in the industry remains unmatched. Mushiya's story is a testament to the power of innovation, determination, and a passion for making a difference.
Mushiya's journey from a young entrepreneur in Congo to a leading figure in the beauty industry is truly inspiring. Her ability to create demand, innovate, and empower others has left an indelible mark on the beauty world. Mushiya Beauty stands as a beacon of creativity, resilience, and success, driven by a woman who dared to dream and make those dreams a reality.