We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kuki Vincent Osei. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kuki below.

Kuki, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Finding those key vendors can often be make or break for a brand. Can you talk to us about how you found your key vendors?

My key manufacturer is not just any supplier; she’s a Black woman chemist. For me, it was imperative to align my business with values of empowerment and inclusivity. Being a Black woman entrepreneur myself, I wanted to ensure that my business was 100% Black woman-owned. It’s about more than just the product; it’s about the ethos behind it. By consciously choosing to support other women-owned businesses, I’m contributing to a cycle of empowerment and economic growth within our community. Sure, I could probably find cheaper options elsewhere, but that’s not the point. My business model is rooted in principles of empowerment and support. It’s about buying Black, supporting small businesses, contributing to the fight against cancer, and instilling pride in our youth. My own journey, starting this brand while pregnant with my son Kreed amidst my cancer diagnosis, underscores the importance of giving back to children battling cancer—it’s personal, it’s purposeful, and it’s deeply meaningful to me.

Kuki, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Kreed Hair Kare is more than just a hair care brand; it’s a passion project born out of necessity and a desire to make a difference. As a mother, I found myself struggling to find products that catered to my son’s natural hair needs while also aligning with my values. That struggle ignited the spark that led to the creation of Kreed Hair Kare. I’m immensely proud to say that we are a Black woman-owned and operated business, sourcing exclusively from women. Parenthood has equipped me with a firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by moms, and that empathy is reflected in every aspect of our brand. Moreover, our commitment to giving back, with 20% of our yearly proceeds dedicated to children battling cancer, is a cornerstone of our mission. It’s about building a legacy of empowerment and compassion while addressing a cause that is deeply personal to me.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Pivoting is an essential part of growth, and we’re currently in the midst of an exciting rebranding journey. While our initial branding prominently featured my son’s face, we’ve listened to our customers and are striving for inclusivity. By removing specific gender associations from our branding, we’re ensuring that everyone feels seen and represented. Our products aren’t just for boys—they’re for anyone who wants to embrace their natural hair and enjoy high-quality, nurturing hair care. Some of our most heartening success stories have come from adults who initially purchased our products for their children but ended up loving them for themselves. This pivot isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about embracing diversity and fostering a sense of belonging within our community.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

Securing the initial capital to kickstart my business journey has been a blend of strategic opportunities and personal investment. I’m incredibly grateful to have been selected for Instagram’s Small Black Business Program, which provided invaluable support and connections within the Black creative community. However, the bulk of the capital has come from my own resources. As a full-time marketer, I’ve leveraged my professional expertise and income to fuel my entrepreneurial passion. It’s a testament to the dedication and determination required to turn dreams into reality. Every dollar invested has been infused with purpose, driving us closer to our mission of empowerment, support, and giving back.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.kreedhairkare.com
• Instagram: @kreedhairkare
• Facebook: kreed hair kare