From Idea to Sephora: How Diarrha N'Diaye-Mbaye Built Ami Colé Into a Cult-Favorite Beauty Brand

#292: If you need inspiration to focus, this episode is it.

Today I’m sitting down with Diarrha N'Diaye-Mbaye, founder of cult favorite beauty brand Ami Colé, to break down the real, unfiltered journey of bringing a big idea to fruition. From growing up at her mother’s salon to working at beauty giants like Glossier and L’Oréal, Diarrha shares how purpose, identity, and intention shaped every step of her path.

We talk about why the ability to focus is the most important skill you need, and how Diarrha is pushing the beauty industry to evolve by creating a brand that centers authenticity and celebrates all shades of beauty.

We Also Talk About…

• Diarrha’s journey from working in corporate beauty to founding her own beauty brand.
• The key strategies for transitioning from an direct-to-consumer business to expanding into retail stores like Sephora.
• The best way to support your favorite indie brands.
• Tips for time management as a founder: balancing your focus between product development, marketing, and operations.
• The secrets to successful content creation that resonates with your audience and strengthens your brand’s identity.

Resources:

• Follow Diarrha on Instagram
• Follow Ami Colé on Instagram
• Visit https://www.amicole.com/ to order your favorite beauty products
• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!

Keep in touch:

• Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Follow on TikTok: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

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