Vanessa

Five mins with Kadian, Bourn Beautiful Naturals

Posted on by Vanessa

Bourn Beautiful Naturals is a handcrafted skincare brand set up by Kadian, after experiencing skin sensitivities on her face, hair and body. The ethos behind the brand is all about maintaining hair and skin’s optimal moisture balance in  formulas that are both effective and feel luxurious. They achieve this mainly through using vegan and vegetarian ingredients. We caught up with Kadian to find out more about her business and the woman behind it.

Tell us why you started Bourn Beautiful Naturals 

Our one-year anniversary passed a week ago, in November, and I’m so grateful we’re still here and getting better. The inspiration to go into business came from a friend, but the impetus to create products came from the needs I had that were not being fully met by products on the market. I started by trying to make a conditioner for myself. It took me two years and 7 versions to get to the Avocado Smoothie Conditioner.

The inspiration for the name, Bourn Beautiful Naturals, came from where I live, Bournville, which is named after the small brook that runs through it: the Bourn Brook. Water is life, and so important to the sense of balance of our hair and skin. I wanted my product line to be about balance and efficacy, not trends.

Why is it important for your products to be Vegan and Vegetarian Based? 

I have a lot of skin sensitivities (oily, acne prone, eczema, gluten-sensitive, chronic urticaria and angioedema on the face; and the skin on my body gets tight when it’s dry and can feel like it’s tearing if not properly moisturised). Some of those problems I collected as I got older. I’m a do-it-yourself kind of girl. So, I systematically began researching the ingredients that would help alleviate my problems, then I started experimenting with formulations. The ingredients I came across, in my research, that were the most effective were primarily vegetable and fruit-derived. Additionally, my products have no petroleum, mineral oil, sulfates, or parabens. There are only three ingredients I use that make certain items vegetarian and not vegan: goat’s milk, liquid silk, and beeswax.

Your products are handmade, how do you manage your time and make this work? 

I am a full-time PhD researcher (Sociology) and part-time Assistant Lecturer in addition to running Bourn Beautiful Naturals. It is certainly challenging, but I make it work because I have to, even if it means shaving off a few hours of sleep. All of those roles fulfill me in different ways, and make me feel like I’m contributing something beneficial to the world, even in small ways. I began my Phd journey the same year I began researching and formulating products. I found that the time in my studio making the products became therapeutic for me. It is purposeful that we are are a small business. By making the products myself, I feel very connected to my customers. There are ebbs and flows with all of my responsibilities, and I have an amazing partner who helps me in practical and emotional ways. The latter is really important to helping me achieve balance.

There has been an increase in the number of women who now have adult acne. What products do you have that are good to treat this condition? 

I have suffered with acne since I was a teenager, and I was on medication for it until my early 30s. I stopped taking medication only a few years ago, and only use my own products on my face. The biggest problem I have found is that women tend to be really rough on our problem skin, thinking we have to over-treat it and be aggressive. Acne-prone skin should be treated like sensitive skin. I have 4 facial products that were developed around acne, oily-combination, and sensitive skin, so they are all fragrance free, alcohol-free, gluten-free and use non-comedogenic ingredients. Those products are: the So Sensitive Face Wash, Lavender Refreshmint Toner, So Sensitive Rose Moisturiser, and the Bentonite Clay & Goats Milk Face Mask.

What are your top 3 best sellers?

It’s been so much fun to learn what people gravitate towards.

My Top 3 are:

Knot-Free Detangling Moisturiser (it’s even great for loc-wearers as a moisturiser)

Avocado Smoothie Conditioner

The Body Butter Supreme.

Do you have plans to create more products and if so can we get some information on what they are? 

Yes! I have three products that I use on myself, but have been tweaking for commercial release in 2018. One is a flaxseed hair gel (that doesn’t feel runny!). The second is a glycerine-free lip balm with nutrient-rich oils. This is available, for now, only in 3 of our holiday gift sets (‘Self Care Indulgence’, ‘About Face’ and ‘Bourn Body Beautiful’). The other product is an oil-based makeup remover and cleanser that rinses cleanly with water. It’s like giving yourself a facial massage while taking your makeup off. Our ‘About Face’ gift set features a sample of this product before it’s available for sale in a full size.

Do you have any special gift sets for the Christmas season? 

Yes we do and they are:

Self Care Indulgence Kit (£30): Coconut Cream Deep Conditioner, Cocoa Sugar Body Scrub, Bentonite Clay & Goat’s Milk Mask, Lips Too Balm, and a hair towel

About Face Kit (£32) : All 4 items in our skincare line, plus the Lips Too Balm, a sample of our makeup remover, and a hair towel

Bourn Body Beautiful Kit (£32): Bespoke Body Wash, Body Butter Supreme, Cocoa Sugar Body Scrub, Lips Too Balm, and a loofah. Choose from 3 fragrances: Japanese Sugar Plum, Candy Cane, or Plumscious Citrus

Wash Day Essentials Kit (£20): 4 trial size items–Moisture Silk Shampoo, Avocado Smoothie Conditioner, Leave Me Be Leave-In Conditioner and Hair Too Balm

Style and Protect Kit (£35): Knot-Free Detangling Moisture Spray, Leave Me Be Leave In Conditioner, Curl Please! Curling Custard, and Hair Too Balm

You can visit their website here: https://www.bournbeautifulnaturals.uk

Follow them on Instagram & Twitter on @bbnaturalsuk 

 

Girl Chat with Donatella Panayiotou, Love & Hip Hop LA

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Donatella Panayiotou is a pioneer in the UK music scene as the first female presenter in Grime working with GRM daily, Flava & MTV interviewing all of the biggest names in Urban music from 50 cent to Bruno Mars. In 2014, Donatella made the move to LA  with the mission of making more opportunities available for artists from the UK and giving more European opportunities for US talent. 

 After 6 months of being in LA she was introduced to former Def Jam president Max Gousse, the man behind some of Beyonce’s greatest records. Impressed by her enthusiasm Max believed in her talents and become her mentor, In less than 6 months under his guidance Donatella signed her first US publishing deal for a now Grammy nominated, award winning writer to Warner Chappell. Donatella has also been instrumental in the success of singer Jeremih in Europe. Donatella has also worked for Stampede Management for clients such as Busta Rhymes, Ty$ and Snoop Dogg. Most recently we saw Donatella join the cast of hit American show “Love & Hip Hop LA”. We caught up with this transatlantic Mogul to find out more about her journey and what she has in store! 

You have worked with some major UK media brands such as MTV and GRM Daily as a host. How did you get into presenting? 

I studied broadcast journalism and while I was in college I started doing work experience at a production company and practicing with autocue and talk back whenever I could. I got my first presenting gig doing interactive game shows that came on Sky late at night, it was amazing practice. When I was confident enough I started a YouTube channel and after my second interview, I joined forces with GRM.

Why did you decide to make such a major move to LA? What were the reasons? 
I felt like I’d reached a point in my career where I really wanted a new challenge and LA being the home of entertainment I felt like was the ultimate test.
Do you think there are lots of opportunities in the UK Media/Urban/Music scene or does the US have more to offer talent? 
The US still has more opportunities but it’s so much bigger. The last decade has seen a huge change in the U.K. “Urban” scene and we now have the reach that we’ve always needed, the internet is so powerful and our media outlets have grown to be some of the most influential platforms.
Tell us about how you got into A & R and Music Management once you arrived in LA? Did you establish your connections whilst you were in the UK or made the move and then networked? 
I managed both an artist and a producer back in the U.K., I was always a lot more hands-on behind the scenes than people from the outside knew. When I was the face of Flava TV I was also working in the office 3 days a week running the unsigned playlists.

What was it like working with Jeremih & being a key part of his recent success? 
Jeremih is insanely talented and working in the studio with him is inspiring. It was his musical gift that gave me so many visions for his career, I’m really proud of the things we’ve achieved.
You also worked with various male rappers at Stampede MGMT what was that experience like especially as a woman working with all males? 
Haha, there were female clients too! The industry though  is male dominated so it’s something you have to get used to. I’ve faced challenges as a woman in the industry for sure but it’s something you learn and you grow through.
Why did you decide to join the Love & Hip Hop Hollywood cast? What has the experience been like? 
The franchise Mona Scott Young has created is huge and the platform is undeniable. How could I say no? I’m all about bridging the gap between the US and the U.K. and this is a great opportunity. The experience has been completely new to me and very true to the Hollywood title at times! Watching back the funniest moment for me was “the wig coming off” scene!
Are you coming back for another series? 
I wish I could tell you but you’re going to have to tune in to find out.
Tell us about your new merchandise line Peachy-Tings

 

Peachy Tings is a fun brand, it’s all the cute stuff that I love that I’m sharing with the world. I’ve been working really hard to get it right so I hope everyone loves it as much as I do

What would be your top tips for someone who wants to make the move to another country? 

 

–Have a plan before you do it

-Test it out first as well, maybe for 3 months.

I had no plan and had to do things the hard way!

What is next for Donatella? 

Working hard on building my company Connect The Dots Intl and who knows. I’m a free spirit so expect the unexpected.

 

You can follow Donatella on @LittleDonatella

Five reasons why you need to be at the I am Mogul Pop up Festival

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We are excited as we officially have FIVE days until Girls Talk London and your favourite brands bring to you our very first ‘I AM MOGUL POP UP FESTIVAL’ a series of events to make sure you SLAY at work and in your personal lives.

In collaboration with our partners  Estee Lauder, Smashbox Cosmetics, Lucy Choi London, Huckletree West, Nzinga Effect, Thomson Reuters & Vine Creatives we will be hosting four events during 21th-24th November 2017! 

We have exclusive VIP discounts, masterclasses, networking and lots of fun girl chat with some of London’s most influential and inspiring people who will be helping you werk your inner Mogul.

We want to help you shape the life that you desire and deserve and all our events will help you figure out your next steps as you enter 2018, like a BOSS!

Here are five reasons why you need to be at one or all of your events next week!

We have four events to choose from!

We have curated four events, across four evenings next week, that give you a holistic approach to tackling your work and life challenges featuring amazing facilitators and speakers. You can then choose whether you want to come to one or all four!

Wellness, Spirituality, Zen: Hip Hop Yoga with Sanchia Legister on Tuesday 21st November 2017 6:30pm

Leadership, Fashion, Business: An evening with Lucy Choi London on Wednesday 22nd November 2017 6:30pm

Confidence, Beauty, Nutrition & Skincare: An evening with Smashbox Cosmetics on Thursday 23rd November 2017 6:30pm

Intersectionality, Confidence & using your voice: Black women share their lessons at Thomson Reuters on Friday 24th November 2017 6:30pm

You get to network with a Bossbabe squad! 

 

 

The feedback we always get from every single event is that “everyone is so friendly and supportive!” We are experts in creating a safe space for women to talk about career, business or lifestyle concerns. Our attendees are always a group of cool chics; they come to interact with you and make new friends. So many friendships have been formed at our events, businesses started and collaborations established so utilise the opportunity to make new connections!

Expert advice & brands 

We have some of the most well established facilitators who will be delivering our masterclasses and speaking on our panels. We have got the best of the absolute best in the business to help you figure out and map out your next career or business move, feel more confident and most importantly to hear from women who have seen and conquered; the best part is that they want you to WIN!

Time to reflect and set some goals for 2018

Yes, we know, the lead up to Christmas and the end of the year for many can be filled with colds/flu and generally we all start to feel extra tired and exhausted from the year. However, it is still important for you to take time to reflect on 2017. What went well? What lessons did you learn from any failures? Where do you want your work and life to take you in 2018? What advice and tips can you take forward from the festival?

FUN!

Yes, when it is all said and done Girls, just really wanna have fun! Who doesn’t love special discounts, goody bags, fiyah music, vibes and drinks with the girls?!

Treat yourself and your mates by booking a ticket for our festival here

If you are coming along please do use and follow the hashtag #iammogulfestival

(Feature inmage: Divasanddorks.com)

 

 

Equal Pay Day: Are you happy to be working for free?

Posted on by Vanessa

Friday 10th November 2017 is Equal Pay Day. This is the day that working women all over the UK will start working for free until the end of the year due to the pay gap between what the average man and woman earns.

Currently the pay gap between men and women in the UK is 18.4% and for full time workers it is at 9.1%. It will take us 62 years at the current rate for women to get equal pay.

The Pay Gap between white men & black african british women is the largest gender pay gap at 19.6%. Even worse. 

We simply cannot wait this long.

Despite so many efforts across the world to close this gap we are still at the same place.

From April 2018, businesses with more than 250 employees legally have to report their gender pay gap to the government, but will this really mean anything if they are not legally required to change any disparities that are revealed?

How do you feel about having to come into work, on time, busting your guts out whilst your male colleagues get paid for the same efforts and you don’t? This is outrageous and a serious change needs to happen.

Three things that you can do now to address this:

-If you work for an employer who has more than 250 employees ask them now what they are planning to do once they publish their gender pay gap data. Enquire, if they have any strategies for addressing disparities and find out if you could feed in any information or ideas or even better have they thought of a way to consult staff about actions going forward?

-Look at yourself: How confident are you in negotiating pay and working terms at your workplace? Are you ready for your annual review whether this is in December 2017 or April 2018, do you feel confident to ask for a pay rise or promotion? Would you like to work more flexibly? Get prepared now by reviewing your achievements and contributions at your workplace and list them down in a word document. Pay particular attention to any achievements that have contributed to new sales or savings impacting the bottom line. You can also note down volunteering activities you have participated in as well and any extra qualifications. A great read to prepare you for negotiation is We have a deal by Natalie Reynolds or watch her interview here:

-Is there anything you can do to improve your career prospects and salary? Are you in a position to get a postgraduate diploma or degree? Does your workplace have a budget for this to support staff; this is the time to have this conversation with your manager. When asking your manager about extra qualifications you need to have a strong business case, not just how this extra qualification will help you but how will it help your business? Can you take on more responsibilities or lead on a project? Can you start to line manage a colleague? Explore these areas because all of these developments can help your case when either negotiating a pay rise, promotion or when looking for a new job.

When the CEO of Salesforce, Marc Benioff, discovered that female employees were paid 80% of what their male colleagues were making he spent $3 million to address this and fix their salaries in 2015. He spent another $3 million again this year to address new pay disparities that came up and he is continuing to monitor future pay gaps. This shows how simple addressing the pay gap really is, however, costly, but businesses need to invest in fixing this issue as Salesforce have done and take it seriously. Spending money to fix the figures however is not a great long-term solution.

Four things businesses can do to address their gender pay gap for the long term:

-Dive deeper into the data and find out if the male colleagues who are earning more than their female counterparts at the same job level/title  have extra qualifications, responsibilities, experience or education. The more insight and further analysis you can get with this data the more effective changes you can make to address the gender pay gaps at your workplace.

-When female and male colleagues join your firm how do you communicate openness for women especially to start negotiations from the very beginning? It is important that female employees feel comfortable in negotiating from the moment they receive their job offer and it is your responsibility as a business to communicate this and to be open. This openness can ensure that from entry into your firm women are given the same open level playing field as their male colleagues.

-Analyse your annual review process and find out if it gives opportunities for women especially to be assessed properly/fairly and what indicators and areas of development you review. Do you incorporate 360 reviews, do you get feedback from clients and colleagues, and do you acknowledge voluntary activities? Find out if there are any changes you can make to ensure that female colleagues are able to be assessed fairly and to have opportunities to clearly demonstrate all of their achievements

-If fixing the gender pay gap cannot be immediate are there any other conditions and terms that you can implement to give female colleagues in particular better working terms such as agile and flexible working, opportunities for gaining qualifications such as postgraduate diplomas and degrees, sabbaticals, long-term leave, unlimited holidays etc.

Either way whether you are a business or a female employee do not wait until April 2018 when businesses have to report the gender pay gap to address this- start today to seriously address these issues.

Two mins with Vee Chanda, Celebrity MUA

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We have nearly two weeks until our I am Mogul make up & skincare masterclass with Vee Chanda and Smashbox Cosmetics on Thursday 23rd November at 6:30pm. Vee is the go to make up artist for some of your favourite celebrities such as Destiny’s Child’s Michelle Williams, TOWIE’s Samantha Faiers, Jamelia and Former E News Anchor Terrence J. We caught up with Vee ahead of her class to get the gossip on what to expect and some of her must have beauty products!

We are so excited about your masterclass, what can we expect?

I will be sharing my secrets and tricks on “how to” get a fresh faced makeup look and how you can transform it from day to night!

Why do you think it’s important for women to attend this masterclass?

I am very passionate about women understanding the techniques to achieve that perfect extra pretty fresh make up look that makes you appear as if you literally “woke up like this!” I want women to know how to enhance their beauty and natural features and to feel confident when applying make-up-ensuring they understand the correct techniques and products to use.

What make-up product or look gives you the ultimate boost when you are feeling down? 

When I do my eyebrows and use a colour corrector that always gives me the boost I need!

What three common mistakes do women make when it comes to their application of make-up?

-They use products that they don’t need

-They use the wrong product for the wrong application 

-They apply too much product 

Finally, what make-up products do you always have in your bag? 

Lip products! I always have about five different lip products in my bag which are:

Carmex or Nivea Lip balm to keep my lips moisturised

Lip Gloss: Right now I love the Fenty Beauty one 

Red Lipstick: I love, Smashbox Get Legendary

 

 

Nude Lipsticks: Living Smashbox On Set 

Another Nude Lipstick: Mac Velvet Teddy

If you want to get more tips and advice plus skincare tips with 20% off all Smashbox Products then get your ticket to our masterclass on Thursday 23rd November here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/i-am-mogul-pop-up-festival-an-evening-with-vee-chanda-and-lori-bee-sponsored-by-smashbox-cosmetics-tickets-37790965796

 

The 10 best dressed Moguls

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As we gear up for our ‘Making your own rules’ event hosted by Lucy Choi London on Wednesday 22nd November, celebrity stylist Denise Brown who will be speaking at this event shares with us her top 10 best dressed Moguls whose fashion style kills when handling business! Don’t forget to join us by booking your ticket here if you want to get more fashion and style tips from Denise and Lucy herself to create a great impression and aura in work/business.

Amal Clooney

Mandatory Credit: Photo by REX Shutterstock (4857143f)

Victoria Beckham

Photo Credit: vogue.com

Gabrielle Union

Photo Credit: glamour.com

Zendaya Zuhair

Photo Credit: i.pinimig,com

Melissa McCarthy

(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for ELLE)

Tracee Ellis Ross

Emma Watson

Jasmine Sullivan

(Photo Credit: bet.com)

Emma Willis

Clare Sulmers

Follow Denise on Instagram: @denisebrownstylist