In an industry where Black people dominate as consumers, we are still finding that there’s still a small number of Black CEOs. But have no fear; the everyday idea is hatched and a business that makes room for representation in the hair care industry is born. In 2021, we reported on college graduate Amber Byrd, creator of the “BraidAid,” a precision tool for hair stylists. This innovative tool was a total game changer, but what about when you’re ready to take your braids out?
Meet Natasha Anderson, the mother of five who decided to create The Original Unbraider in 2004. It looks similar to a small comb but can take out six to eight braids at one time while combing your hair out in the process!
Anderson worked closely with a plastic manufacturer in Taiwan and even got the opportunity to bring her family along to watch her idea come to life. Once the product was created, she began pushing them at hair shows, beauty salons, and mall kiosks.
Unfortunately, after Anderson’s mom passed away, she had to press pause. But in 2021, The Original Unbraider returned with new management: Khadija Imara, Anderson’s daughter. Imara’s strategy was to make a video on TikTok about the product, which gained millions of views until they were sold out! Read more
