The world of beauty is as diverse as it is intricate, demanding both artistic prowess and an understanding of the science behind cosmetology. One astounding woman who has mastered both these components is Josephine Koroma, fondly known as Ms Joe. Not only does she celebrate beauty in all its forms through her globally-recognized work in the beauty industry, but she also uses her skills and knowledge to provide training and opportunities for young women to start their journeys as cosmetologists. Born in Washington D.C. and raised in the DMV (Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia), Ms. Joe has diverse cultural experiences, having frequently visited Sierra Leone since she was four. Her…

My initial attempt into entrepreneurship was during middle school. I transformed into a rather crude version of a loan shark, catering to my peers who often mishandled their pocket money, seeking swift loans with interest from my burgeoning lump sum. Prior to that, my mother (spoken of discreetly) had occasionally acquired small sums from me without interest, contributing to household expenses, which I also benefited from. My father, a successful accountant, engaged me in one of our earliest discussions on resource optimization. During our school years, each of us played a role in the family’s side hustles, ranging from commercial soapmaking to the transportation business. I frequently attribute my business…