26 years old Olamide Olowe, the CEO and co-founder of Topicals has earned a top spot on our inspiring personalities of the week chart and this article encapsulates 7 reasons why.
Olamide is a young woman whose growing success reflects her grit, resilience, dynamism, and faith. Her passion for entrepreneurship fuels her drive to becoming a trailblazer in the beauty industry. And this deeply resonates with, and inspires us.
Born October 27, 1997, to Nigerian parents, Olamide recently obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Entrepreneurship, with a concentration in Race, Ethnicity and Politics, from the University of California. She started her first company, SheaGirl, in partnership with SheaMoisture, which was later acquired by Unilever. Her passion for science and beauty led her to launch Topicals in 2018.
Topicals is a skincare brand that’s dedicated to treating chronic skin conditions like eczema, hyperpigmentation, and acne. Olamide, recognizing that individuals with chronic skin conditions are more likely to experience depression or anxiety, donates a portion of the brand’s proceeds to mental health organizations such as Therapy For Black Girls and Fearless Foundation.
Gen Z Olamide Olowe, is our inspiring person of the week and here are some reasons why we absolutely think she’s all that.
7 Reasons Why Olamide Olowe Inspires Us
- 1. Faith-Driven Leadership: Olamide’s christian faith is something she’s been vocal about. In some of her interviews, she has been heard to mention God as her source of strength and inspiration in some of her interviews. Also, it is evident in her compassionate approach to business as she’s known for emphasizing empathy and community upliftment. In an interview, she shared, “Patience is your heart posture during the wait,” reflecting her reliance on faith during challenging times.
- 2. Breaking Barriers: At just 26, Olamide is taking over the skincare industry. She recently became the youngest Black woman to raise over $14 million in venture capital, challenging industry norms and paving the way for future entrepreneurs.
- 3. Championing Inclusivity: Topicals as a brand, addresses the needs of people of color, a demographic often overlooked in dermatological research and product development. Olamide has emphasized the importance of creating products that cater to diverse skin tones, ensuring that everyone feels seen and represented.
- 4. Mental Health Advocacy: By linking skincare with mental well-being, Olamide highlights the holistic nature of self-care. She has been open about her own struggles, stating, “I didn’t wear a swimsuit until deep into college because I was really insecure about ingrown hairs and bumps,” underscoring the emotional impact of skin conditions.
- 5. Authentic Storytelling: Her transparency about personal struggles with skin conditions fosters a genuine connection with consumers. Olamide once remarked, “Perfect skin literally doesn’t exist,” challenging unrealistic beauty standards and promoting self-acceptance.
- 6. Innovative Marketing: Collaborations with different brands and influencers, both big and small, demonstrate her creative approach to brand promotion. Also, he approach of blending pop culture with skincare, has made the conversation around skin health more engaging and relatable.
- 7. Empowering Others: Through educational initiatives and community engagement, she inspires others to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their passions. Olamide often shares insights and advice on her social media platforms, encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs to stay true to themselves and their visions.
Why Should You Care?
Olamide Olowe’s journey has been nothing short of amazing. Her work with Topicals not only transforms skincare but also uplifts communities and challenges societal norms. She is a stark reminder that with innovation, determination and compassion, we can create meaningful change in the world, in any sphere of our choice.
