Exploring Life & Business with Shadonna Walker of Ekonade’ Skincare & The Bizlife Co.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shadonna Walker.

Ekonade’™ began with a personal story in mind. As a young black girl, owner, Shadonna Walker, was often teased about her skin tone. The issue was, there wasn’t a proper skincare routine which obviously reflected as such. A day with her family turned into a lifestyle skincare change for her. Shadonna remembers quite vividly an interaction she and her father had; She recalls him stating to her “you have to take care of your skin. You are dark skin and can’t use what everyone else uses”. This sparked a small interest of developing an essential skincare routine.

From that moment, she began to sample different products, but neither would work, so she resorted to simply using a petroleum jelly. However, as time evolved and her knowledge, she realized that it was not providing the nutrients that her skin needed. As time moved forward, now a college student, Shadonna then learned about Shea Butter which then led to her knowledge of “Whipped” Shea Butter. From this moment, she never looked back and knew that this was her “cure” to healthy and glowing skin. Shadonna was fascinated with Shea Butter and longed for others to have the same love for it as her. However, Shadonna encountered another issue that was problematic, which was finding a product to use on her face. As she continued to use her whipped Shea Butter, she learned that it was not the best product for the face due to it being a heavier product that can clog your pores. Soon after, she began using a very lightweight oil that aided in better results. Her light bulb came on and she decided to make a blend of oils that are lightweight, hydrating, softens the skin but could be used for each skin type. A harmless interaction of being told to take care of her skin turned into her launching her very own skincare line.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
As an entrepreneur, there are many lessons that I have learned and adjustments that were needed to be made. Honestly, I would say that my biggest obstacle was a comparison. The moment I began to tap into my own true identity is when I saw myself in a different light and also when I began to see my business flourish as well. After sitting down with my thoughts, I was able to create a clear vision and focus on myself and my professional development. I didn’t allow for any set backs to hold me back, and I think that is actually my proudest moment as a business owner. Another struggle would also be holding my “9-5” job while operating two other businesses. However, what keeps me going is my ambitious spirit. I see myself wanting to live a certain lifestyle, and that is my motivation to keep pushing. I have always had the go-getter personality type but my downfall would be starting something and not fully completing it. Last year, I was able to bet on myself by embarking on two business ventures that I had been putting off – Ekonade’ Skincare and The Bizlife Co. Challenges are inevitable, but I try to view obstacles as an opportunity to grow, learn, and even change directions if needed.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My mission with Ekonade’s Skin is to encourage you to be bold and confident in your bare skin with pure ingredients. We are a plant-based skincare brand with a focus of the following six core values: 1. Cruelty-free- our products are formulated with pure ingredients from the earth. 2. Earth-conscious- Our packaging is designed to be recycled or upcycled. 3. Transparency- We promise to be open with you to promote honesty and transparency. 4. Quality- We are committed to providing you with the best products without compromising. 5. Confidence- Pure products to help increase confidence in your bare skin. 6. Community- We are committed to forming a family, not just a consumer base. My second business is a stationery brand called The Bizlife Co. in which I will be offering a 12-month planner for women entrepreneurs, The Bizlife PlanHER. My main goal is to inspire women entrepreneurs to intentionally take control over her life while simultaneously building her business… the BIZLIFE. I would love for you to connect with me via IG at @thebizlifeco.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I have learned would be to be open to pivots when necessary. Entrepreneurship has its ups and downs, its greatest moments and worst moments. I think the real challenge begins when you finally decide to pursue your skillset as a business endeavor. When it was just a hobby, I simply was not concerned about the back end of business systems. So, as I became more committed and actually treated my skill like a business, I have learned more about the administrative side and having actual systems to help my business operate functionally. Do what you love, and you will see the benefits of your labor. Even during the tough times, it is all worth it. I literally love what I am doing and I am so glad that I am able to operate in my passions but also impact others along the way.

Pricing:

• $18.89 – Shea Butta Glow
• $23.33 – Ultrs Sup’r
• $16.88 – Ultra Boost
• $9.77 – Turmeric Bar Soap
• $20.88 – Rose Water Toner

Contact Info:

• Email: info@ekonade.com
• Website: www.ekonade.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/ekonadeskin
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ekonadeskin
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/ekonadeskin
• Other: TikTok: @ekonadeskin

Image Credits
Personal Photo: Zeal & Niche Photography