2025 Honorees

Kadidja Dosso

Founder and CEO

“I would describe myself as an innovator and visionary.”

Founder2025

Tell us about your company and role.

Dosso Beauty is a clinically tested hypoallergenic braiding hair and organic hair care brand that provides products that were created for people who have sensitive scalps and skin. We are an omni-channel business that began as an eCommerce marketplace for clean hair care products. As the CEO and Founder of Dosso Beauty I am responsible for product development, strategic partnerships, operations, and talent management.

How would you describe yourself?

I would describe myself as an innovator and visionary. I founded my company because there were not many accessible options for hypoallergenic braiding hair that were clinically tested and there was not enough education about the harmful effects of the toxic braiding hair that dominates the market. When myself or my community is experiencing a problem, especially within the hair care space I begin to conduct research and ideate how I can develop an accessible solution.

What qualities do you think a successful founder needs to have?

Founders have to be nimble, resilient, and ready to pivot at any given moment. Staying true to your why and the purpose behind why you started your business is key, but the business operations, structure, and ways to generate revenue need to have the ability to change based on the current business needs and other opportunities that present themselves.

What has been your biggest professional success so far?

My biggest professional success has been opening up my first brick-and-mortar location that has a luxury hair braiding salon, retail store, and warehouse in 1 space. The fact that I’ve been able to build a global brand and create access to products, jobs, and education for my community means the world to me.

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What causes are you most passionate about?

Sustainability, clean beauty, and women’s health.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing eCommerce brands?

Quieting the noise of paid ads, brands with bigger marketing budgets, and trying to acquire as many people as possible besides focusing on their target demo who is willing to pay for their products without remorse.

What's your favorite loyalty program or subscription offering from an eCommerce brand?

Yotpo’s loyalty points program is the best that we’ve had thus far. It keeps customers up to date with flows and encourages them to return to purchase more products.

What do you geek out over?

SEO and hockey stick analytics!