Tell us about where you work and what you do there.
I am the CEO and Founder of UOMA Beauty. I have my hand in every part of the business and I love it! From product development to photoshoot direction for campaigns. At UOMA we are an empowered tribe. Our race is human, our people are free, our language is color. All are welcome to our beautiful tribe.
How would you describe yourself?
I am a go-getter! I like to keep busy and learn about the world and how I can make an impact. In normal times, I enjoy traveling the world with Leo (my little Pomeranian who is the real CEO). My mission and passion in life is to create a space where everyone feels welcome, where everyone feels like they belong, and where everyone feels free to be their true beautiful and authentic selves.
What is your leadership style?
I am very involved in all aspects of the business. I have a fantastic team, and I know they are capable of making this dream a reality. We are still a small team, so we depend on each other and we are all hands on. When I say I am involved in everything, I mean it. We just finished loading our entire warehouse onto pallets last week. I can record for a broadcast one hour and move a pallet jack the next. We are a team in every sense of the word.
What do you think has been your biggest professional success so far?
Creating a space that allows people to feel beautiful in their own skin. When I was a young girl, I had very little confidence. I was bullied for my appearance — and to think that I have been able to make a space in the industry where people feel like they can show up just as they are, without judgment — that is my biggest success.
What goals do you have for 2021?
Biggest goal is always to strive for more, to keep growing, and raise awareness of the brand and the initiatives we are supporting. And if I have time, I hope to find some time to regroup (hopefully we can be in a place where that regrouping involves some solo travel!) and reflect on the past couple of years. I have been go-go-go since the launch of the brand, and I haven’t really allowed myself to sit back and just reflect.
What do you think is the next big trend in eCommerce?
I think eCommerce has become the most accessible way to reach a big audience. I have a feeling that it is going to become even more of a space where people can express themselves through their passion projects. I can’t wait to see what everyone’s dreams are.
Name an eCommerce brand you admire and why.
There’s so many. I really like sites that use up-and-coming features and take risks. That have cool photography shots, or use colors in interesting ways. A site that engages you as a consumer is important.
What do you geek out over?
Honestly… cartoons. I love spending a whole weekend day on my couch watching my favorite animated series!
