Black History Month: Madam C.J. Walker Walked So We Could Run

When we think about the entrepreneurial journey of one of the most iconic black women within the hair industry, no one other than Madam C.J. Walker comes to mind. Known as an entrepreneur, philanthropist and political and social activist, Madam C.J. Walker paved the way for many Black women owned businesses for decades to come.  

Many of Madam Walker’s achievements can be found throughout historical context, but one of her biggest achievements to date is being the “first Black woman millionaire in America” which is attributed to her homemade line of hair care products for Black women. Madam Walker was inspired to create this life changing hair care line after experiencing personal hair loss, leading her to create and establish the “Walker System” of hair care.    

So, you may be thinking – how did Madam C.J. Walker’s creation pave the way for other Black women-owned businesses to run? Keep reading to find out!  

3 Ways Madam C.J. Walker Paved the Way for Black Women 

She saw a problem and found a solution.  

Madam Walker began experiencing hair loss due to a harsh lye soap exposure which prompted her to create her hair care products.  

She fostered an importance of entrepreneurship. 

Similar to our CEO and Founder, Yummie O. through her mentorship program, Madam C.J. Walker fostered the importance of what it means to be an entrepreneur. In 1906, Walker developed her own formula to heal scalps and spur hair growth and began selling Madam C.J. Walker’s Wonderful Hair Grower through her company, Walker Manufacturing.  

She created products for Black women to feel comfortable to create for other Black women. 

Yummy Hair Extensions is a prime example of what Madam C.J. Walker’s intentional outcome did for Black women owned businesses. She literally walked so businesses like ours could run and continue to provide a space for Black women to show up as their most authentic selves.  

If you’re a Black woman owned business, let us know in the comments how Madam C.J. Walker has impacted you to continue to pave the way for other women around you.