July 24th 2023.
Rahya Kelley, a student at Olivet College, is making a way where there was none. In the spirit of Clark Atlanta University’s widely known motto “find a way or make one,” Kelley has taken it upon herself to bring hair care products to her remote campus. With a Black population that makes up almost one-fifth of the student body, Kelley is using a vending machine in partnership with Beauty Genie to provide an outlet for the students whose hair she services to get the essentials they need for their upkeep.
The vending machines will be available on campus starting in August, with Olivet College being the inaugural school in its rotation. This means that Black hair care products will no longer have to be found at students’ hometowns or the closest Walmart that is beyond walking distance. Stores available within driving range from the school often do not carry all the hair care items needed, and even the products they do sell may not benefit Black hair, potentially causing breakage.
Beauty Genie’s vending machine will be fully stocked with all the must-haves, and they will also carry many Black-owned hair products, including Mielle Organics. The popular brand will have kits for purchase that will focus on what students need most for their hair texture. On the machines, videos from hair care professionals on topics will be on display to provide tips and tricks. This will be educational for the students, as many may not even know how often to get their ends clipped, according to one of the founders at Beauty Genie, Swanzetta Lewis.
Beauty Genie is expanding upon their partnership with colleges by developing an ambassador program to involve students in the business aspects of restocking and marketing for the company. While Olivet is the first school to try out this collaboration, Beauty Genie is hoping to extend their services and connection to more schools beyond the region - including a military base with a female veteran.
Rahya Kelley is a true example of the spirit of Clark Atlanta University’s motto - she has found a way to bring hair care products to her remote campus, and in doing so, is making a big difference.
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