International Women’s Day: Ten Entrepreneurs Who Are Changing the Game
Women’s Day is all about celebrating power moves, and few are making them bigger than these ten entrepreneurs. From beauty and fashion to spirits and media, they’re not just launching businesses, they’re building empires and redefining what it means to be a mogul.
Jayda Cheaves turned social media influence into a serious business. What started with selling hair extensions evolved into Waydamin, her fashion brand known for trendy, statement pieces that fly off the shelves. She’s mastered the art of turning engagement into revenue, proving that being a brand in the digital age is just as valuable as running one.
Issa Rae went from YouTube sensation to an Emmy-nominated powerhouse, but she didn’t stop there. She built Hoorae Media, a production company amplifying underrepresented voices, and entered the beauty space with Sienna Naturals, a haircare line celebrating natural textures. And because Issa doesn’t do anything halfway, she’s now in the wine industry with Viarae Prosecco, already making waves. The lesson? There’s no one lane for success, you can create your own.
Rihanna might just be the most successful businesswoman of our pop generation. After conquering music, she built an empire with Fenty Beauty, a brand that changed the industry by prioritising inclusivity. Her Savage X Fenty lingerie line disrupted the traditional standards of beauty and body representation, while her luxury collab with LVMH made history. Even when she’s not releasing music, Rihanna stays winning, proving that true power lies in diversifying your empire.
Cardi B’s entrepreneurial game is as bold as her lyrics. Her alcohol-infused whipped cream brand, Whipshots, sold over 5 million cans in its first two years, proving she knows exactly what her audience wants. Her first Fashion Nova collection pulled in $1 million in 24 hours, and her Reebok collabs kept her at the forefront of sneaker culture. Cardi understands branding better than most, if she puts her name on it, best believe it’s going to sell.
Briana Shaneé, founder of Matte Brand, built a fashion empire without outside investors, keeping complete creative control. Her minimalist yet sultry designs have become a go-to for influencers and celebrities, with every limited drop selling out instantly. In an industry dominated by big names and bigger budgets, Briana’s success is a testament to staying authentic and knowing your audience.
Olamide Olowe made history as the youngest Black woman to raise over $10 million in funding for her skincare brand Topicals. Specialising in treating conditions like hyperpigmentation and eczema, it quickly became a top seller at Sephora, generating over $20 million in sales. With science-backed formulas, viral marketing, and a focus on inclusivity, Olamide has completely changed the game for skincare.
Beyoncé has dominated music, fashion, and now, haircare. With Cécred, her newly launched luxury haircare brand, she’s bringing her deep connection to Black hair culture into the industry. But this isn’t her first major business move, her Ivy Park x Adidas collab was a streetwear phenomenon, with collections selling out almost instantly before she cut ties to regain full ownership. From music to fashion to beauty, Beyoncé doesn’t just follow trends, she shifts the culture.
Keke Palmer does everything, acting, music, hosting, and she’s just as sharp in business. She launched KeyTV, a digital platform uplifting Black creatives, and has locked in major brand deals, proving that her influence extends far beyond entertainment. She’s built a brand around being authentically herself, and it’s paying off in every way possible.
Hailey Bieber’s Rhode took over the beauty world, with its Peptide Lip Treatment racking up a 400,000-person waitlist in 2023. Within its first year, Rhode hit $100 million in sales, solidifying its status as a major player in skincare. Hailey’s strategy, keeping the brand minimal, effective, and exclusive, has made Rhode one of the most in-demand beauty lines today.
JT, one half of the City Girls now solo artist, is carving out her own lane in fashion and beauty. Her Beats by Dre campaign was a perfect blend of music, tech, and style. She’s been front row at major fashion shows and dropping hints about future ventures. With her sharp style and loyal fanbase, JT is proving she’s more than a rapper, she’s a brand in the making.
These women aren’t just making moves, they’re setting the standard. Whether you’re launching a brand, pivoting careers, or just figuring things out, they prove that success isn’t about following a blueprint. It’s about making your own.
Written by Vanessa Twerefou
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