Ami Colé Closes Its Doors: A Reflection on Purpose and Perseverance
In a heartfelt announcement on July 17, Diarrha N’Diaye-Mbaye, the visionary founder of clean beauty brand Ami Colé, revealed that the company will be winding down operations after four impactful years. What started as a dream to create makeup that genuinely resonates with melanin-rich skin evolved into a movement, creating a community reminiscent of the salon built by her mother.
“This moment is bittersweet… Thank you for everything you’ve taught me about living your dreams out loud,” N’Diaye-Mbaye shared in her touching post. With Ami Colé, she not only brought high-quality products to the market but also celebrated diversity in an industry often criticized for its lack of inclusivity. “We were a brand rooted in purpose, storytelling, and the bold celebration of who we are,” she emphasized.
Scaling A Dream in a Shifting Landscape
Launched in 2021, Ami Colé quickly became a fixture among clean beauty enthusiasts, earning accolades from celebrities and inclusion on “Oprah’s Favorite Things” list. Yet, the journey was fraught with challenges typical for many Black-owned businesses, particularly in a post-George Floyd landscape. For a time, there was an apparent investor enthusiasm surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion. However, N’Diaye-Mbaye candidly reflected on shifts in that support, noting that the initial zeal for investing in DEI initiatives had not always translated into sustainable backing.
Compounding these difficulties was the unique pressure of being among the few Black women to secure significant venture capital, with Ami Colé raising over $3 million. However, as the economic landscape changed, support dwindled, underscoring the broader trend of declining investment in Black-owned businesses—down to a concerning 0.4%, according to Crunchbase.
Endings and New Beginnings
Despite Ami Colé’s closure, N’Diaye-Mbaye remains undaunted. “I still believe in beauty — at every level — and I’m looking forward to discovering what comes next,” she expressed. This sentiment mirrors biblical themes of hope and renewal. In Ecclesiastes 3:1, it is said, “For everything, there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” In her farewell, N’Diaye-Mbaye emphasizes that while one chapter may close, the lessons and community cultivated through Ami Colé will endure.
As we reflect on this journey, we are reminded that perseverance in the face of adversity can lead to greater purpose. Like Jesus, who faced many trials yet remained steadfast in His mission to serve and uplift others, individuals pursuing their dreams can find strength and determination in their convictions.
In conclusion, while the closing of Ami Colé marks a poignant moment for its founder and supporters, it also sparks an invitation for us all to ponder: What new beginnings might arise from endings? Let this story inspire you to embrace your own journey, holding fast to your dreams and values, and to celebrate the beautiful transitions life brings.
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