I recently attended the Bella Kinks Expo, a Dallas area natural hair expo that had an emphasis on inspirational business women networking opportunities, informative hair care seminars, and an overflow of popular hair products. Though the weekend was filled to the brim with all kinds of beautiful and unique natural haired women, I was met by a glowing energetic presence in the form of Julian Raddo, the expo’s organizer. While we met briefly, I couldn’t help but notice the drive in her to keep the show afloat, stormy weather and all. Of course I had to pick her brain on her beginning in this industry and where she sees herself as a businesswoman in 5 years.
Hi my name is Julian Addo. I am based in Dallas and Brooklyn.
I am the founder of Bella Kinks and most recently, The Bella Kinks DFW Natural Hair Expo in Dallas Texas. I founded Bella Kinks 3 1/2 years ago to provide resources to the natural hair community in Dallas Texas and surrounding areas. I have been natural for over 3 years. I big chopped May of 2012.From cosmetology school to the corporate world
I have been in the beauty industry since I was 14. I attended cosmetology school in high school and was a professional cosmetologist for about 15 years. I made a huge career switch into the corporate banking world; once I big chopped in 2012, my passion was reignited for the beauty world. This time, I wanted to serve in leadership and corporate setting in beauty as opposed to behind the chair. I am better able to leverage all of my training and experience from corporate America and help push the community forward–here I am!
I want to tell every woman…
How powerful she is, how she doesn’t have to compromise her integrity and morals to get ahead.
My take on the “new wave” of naturals
It’s beautiful! It’s positive and healthy for our community and culture so I am all for it. I have been able to connect with outstanding people through this industry that I would not have been able to otherwise meet. I hope we keep it going. Natural hair has so much versatility. You do not have to rock an afro, you can wear your hair straight or curly. Or add in a protective style. There’s no one way to it.
The key to thriving in this industry
Relationships are vital to one’s success. Without them, we cannot move forward individually, so they are important, absolutely. Just DO it! There’s nothing to be afraid of.
In 5 years I see myself being a business owner worth at least a few million dollars and being in a position to employ, motivate and encourage the next set of leaders.
Keep up with me and my upcoming endeavors
I am @julianraddo and @bellakinks on all of my platforms. I am planning my 2nd solo expo for 2016, Bella Kinks DFW Natural Hair Expo! It will be bigger and better than before!
