Alexis Obodo

I am a beauty industry entrepreneur and first-generation American with Nigerian heritage. When I was fresh out of college, I had this idea to pursue a career in the beauty industry, which was quite different from the traditional paths my immigrant parents had envisioned for me - you know, doctor, lawyer, or engineer. I remember printing out data for my dad about the beauty industry, where it's headed, and the projections, and he said 'Do it, and I'll support you.' That support from my family has been everything. I am the epitome of the saying 'it takes a village to raise a child' because my family - my dad, grandmother, brother, sister, aunt - they adore me so much and have always believed in me from the very beginning. I've also had so many amazing mentors along the way. In my work, I'm always researching things and staying on top of trends. I'm constantly doing market research, testing out products all the time, comparing and contrasting, and looking for what's needed in the market that's not there - always looking for something that's innovative. I want to make sure that I don't lose myself in the process, but I also want to cater to what the industry needs right now, what they want right now. My goal is to see my products in stores globally, and especially in Nigeria and throughout the African continent. Beyond beauty, I'm also in the international affairs space through an organization called Black Professionals in International Affairs, where I help with policymakers in the DC area, changemakers, and peace builders.