For Women’s History Month I will be sharing the stories that define and provide examples of women empowerment, uplifting stories of personal triumph and businesses that are inspiring and are making a difference for women. Women’s History Month is a declared month each year that highlights the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society.
I want to introduce you to Esnavi, Recording Artist & Entrepreneur.
Esnavi is a Top 40 Urban A/C Recording Artist turned entrepreneur who recently launched her very own skincare brand, ZEN by Esnavi.
Her is HERstory:
I’ve been a beauty enthusiast for as long as I can remember. Everything new and noteworthy in skin care and cosmetics, I know about it. It’s such an exciting world. Self-care is extremely important to me and my desire to have healthy, glowing skin is the ultimate motivator in the foods I eat and the products I use. I’ve been no stranger to the beauty industry. Early on in my music career, I extended my brand beyond music with two beauty campaigns — one with Alison Raffaele Cosmetics, an eco-friendly cosmetics line, in which I became the first African-American to represent the brand in its “Live Beautiful” campaign; and the other with Dazzle Dry, a clean beauty nail polish brand in which I had my very own collection, entitled Esnavi Live. At the time, I had no idea I would someday create my own skincare brand, but my musical life positioned me to be a part of the beauty world that I love so much. I became an organic skincare formulator after deciding to turn my immense love for skincare into a business, while making natural products that are good for our skin and environment. I believe that everything our skin needs is provided by nature. This philosophy inspired me to create ZEN and these products are a direct reflection of that. I launched ZEN during the pandemic. As a recording artist, I was suddenly unable to perform, record or make public appearances so I decided there was no better time to move forward with starting my business.
Her businesses are ZEN by Esnavi Skincare and Recording Artist.
What does women empowerment mean to you?
Promoting women’s sense of self-worth, their ability to determine their own choices, and their right to influence social change for themselves and others
What advice or words of inspiration would you like to share with someone?
Do what makes you happy. Create the life you want. Always believe in yourself. No one can stop you but you.
What does self care mean to you?
Caring for my physical and mental well-being by doing things that make me feel good.
When did you realize entrepreneurship was right for you?
During college when I couldn’t envision myself working a 9 -5 the rest of life. I started to recognize my entrepreneurial traits. I knew I was a leader, a risk taker, a money maker and very tenacious and confident in my abilities. I had no doubt I would become an entrepreneur.
Why did you choose entrepreneurship?
To have the freedom to live life on my own terms while doing something I’m extremely passionate about.
What would you say is your most driving motivation to keep doing what you to do?
My children. Every decision I make will ultimately have an impact on them so I am driven to build an empire to show them what is possible.
What are you most excited or passionate about? (In both business and life or both)
I am most passionate about music and skincare. I love the art of songwriting and performing and the feelings I evoke from my songs and performances. I equally love the process of formulating skincare, using it, seeing the results in my skin and others.
What’s next for you in your business/brand? What can readers look forward to from you?
I’m currently working formulating body care products to launch the Spring.
