Meet Laurel Uko | Owner of Afro Luxe Hair & Beauty

We had the good fortune of connecting with Laurel Uko and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Laurel, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I started my business, I was 17 going on 18 so I was pretty young but ambitious. I knew I was not cut out to work for someone the rest of my life, despite me not even having a job at that time but I craved success and I was willing to do whatever it would take to achieve that success. I also wanted to stand out. I have always known from a young age that I was meant to be set apart from my peers and none of them at that age were thinking about business but I was. I would be lying if I said I didn’t feel lost or even confused at one point because I did not know the logistics of having a business but I had an idea.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Afro Luxe Hair & Beauty is a business I started by faith at the tender age of 17. Now at the age of 25, I can proudly say that I have come a long way with my business. From changing the business name, the logos, adding products and even changing my target audience to be more inclusive, I can say that I would not have been able to do all of this if not for my support system and prayer. Starting a business especially at such a young age is far from easy and it does not get easier but it becomes more manageable. I have learned to be resilient through every challenge that has come my way. I have learned many lessons but the most important lesson I have learned is being intentional and not impulsive. I believe that people deserve to have the accessibility to quality products and services and that comes with. being patient, calculated and intentional. I want the world to know that Afro Luxe Hair & Beauty is not just here for a good time but is here for a long time. We aim to make a difference within various communities and hopefully the world. inclusivity is what we stand on and stand by and we believe everyone deserves to have an Afro Luxe experience.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
One thing about me is that I love food, games and beautiful sights. So a few places and vibes I would introduce my friends to would be: Cidercade Xoxo Dining Room Reunion Tower the Rustic Deep Ellum Escape the Room Velvet Taco The Dallas World Aquarium and any restaurant that has crab legs.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are a plethora of people I could give a shoutout to but I believe this shoutout belongs to my cousins and sisters: Ubong, Ekaete & Elizabeth. There were many instances when I wanted to give up and they motivated me to keep going. They have supported me emotionally, spiritually and even financially. They deserve all the accolades!

Website: afroluxeb.com

Instagram: thelaureluko

Twitter: @_LifeofLala

Youtube: OlaniTV