She’s Bold, Brilliant, and Black: Meet Ifeoma Ekwobi
Meet Ifeoma Ekwobi, Founder of MaOma Natural Hair and Skin Care, From London UK
What experiences in your life have helped you to become the bold woman you are today?
My journey to becoming a bold woman has been shaped by resilience, self-discovery, and a deep connection to my roots. Facing societal pressures and personal challenges taught me perseverance, but my battle with cancer was the most defining experience. It tested my strength, reshaped my perspective, and deepened my commitment to self-care and wellness. Overcoming it gave me the courage to pursue my dreams fearlessly, leading to the creation of MaOma, a brand dedicated to natural beauty and empowerment. My experience reinforced that fear should never hold us back and that true strength comes from embracing life fully.
Who were your role models growing up and how did they influence your path?
My biggest role models were the strong women in my family, especially my mother, whose courage, strength, wisdom, and independence shaped my values. I also admired Maya Angelou and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, whose powerful storytelling and advocacy for self-expression inspired me to embrace my own voice. Beyond them, my 2 older brothers have been my greatest supporters, always believing in me and encouraging my dreams. Their unwavering love and faith in my abilities have given me the confidence to take risks and pursue my purpose fearlessly.
As a Black woman, have you faced any unique challenges that have impacted your journey? How have you navigated moments of adversity?
Absolutely. As a Black woman, I have encountered bias, skepticism, and the pressure to work twice as hard to be taken seriously. In the beauty industry, where mainstream standards often overlook Black women’s needs, it has been a challenge to carve out space for MaOma. I’ve navigated adversity by staying true to my vision, building a strong community, and refusing to shrink myself to fit expectations. Every challenge has reinforced my belief that representation matters and that my presence in this space is necessary.
How do you want your life and work to impact your community and the world?
I want my work to empower people to embrace their natural beauty and take pride in who they are. MaOma is more than a brand; it’s a movement for self-love, wellness, and sustainability. Beyond beauty, I hope to create opportunities for other Black entrepreneurs and advocate for inclusivity in the industry. My goal is to leave a legacy that uplifts others and inspires confidence, authenticity, and positive change.
What advice would you give to other Black women about owning their brilliance in spaces that attempt to dim their light?
Never shrink yourself to make others comfortable. Your brilliance, your voice, and your presence are powerful. Walk into every space knowing that you belong and that you have something valuable to offer. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, and don’t be afraid to take up space. Challenges will come, but your resilience and authenticity will always be your greatest strengths.
How can our readers connect with you?
I love engaging with the community, so feel free to reach out, share your stories, and be part of this journey toward natural beauty and empowerment!
Website: www.ma-oma.com
Instagram: @maomacosmetics.com
Email: info@ma-oma.com
