This article original appears in the Chicago Defender.

Andrea’s story is as inspiring as it is captivating. It’s the story of how a determined woman is helping bring out the true potential of men of color through Solo Noir, an innovative male grooming brand. But how did the humble graduate from Tennessee State University (Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Master of Business Administration in E-Commerce and Logistics) rise to disrupt the cosmetics industry?

An Unexpected Eureka Moment

Let’s rewind to where it all began. The idea for Solo Noir took root on the soils of Tennessee State University. Andrea was required to design a business plan for a company in an untapped market. She saw a gap in the male grooming industry and sought to find a simple yet effective solution. Unknown to Andrea, the ensuing market research coupled with her inborn passion for natural health care would lead her to what is now a thriving and award-winning business idea.

Since the moment the idea of Solo Noir crossed her mind, Andrea has never looked back. This included taking a leap of faith by quitting a 9-5 corporate job to focus on her ambitions. With accolades such as “The 2014 Ariel Investment’s Top 40 Under 40 Game Changers in Chicago” and “The 2017 Best Consumer Product in Chicago” in her trophy cabinet, it’s hard to question her entrepreneurial spirit. Andrea is a woman who saw an opportunity in an unconventional industry, grabbed it tight, and ran with it – a true inspiration for young girls to speak out and own their ideas.

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