Princess Va’Shion on Beauty, Business & Breaking Barriers
As we celebrate Black History Month, we shine a light on inspirational Black women who are making waves in their industries. Princess Va’Shion, a renowned celebrity master cosmetologist, publicist,celebrity event creator and philanthropist, has built a thriving brand in beauty, wellness, and entertainment. Through her company, Perceptive by Princess Va’Shion, she empowers women, uplifts the community, and redefines beauty beyond the surface.
In this exclusive interview, Princess Va’Shion shares her journey, challenges, inspirations, and advice for the next generation of Black entrepreneurs and creatives.
1. What does Black History Month mean to you as a trailblazing Black woman in the beauty and entertainment industries?
Princess Va’Shion: Black History Means to me we see you , we recognize your contributions, we love you and you matter to the world the way everyone else does.
2. How has being a Black female entrepreneur shaped your journey in the beauty and wellness space?
Princess Va’Shion: Honestly It’s been an amazing journey. Beauty & Wellness has been a life long passion of mine since high school.
3. What challenges have you faced as a Black woman in business, and how have you turned them into opportunities for growth?
Princess Va’Shion: I have faced some challenges in business like people thinking I can’t achieve things that they feel doesn’t fit my demographics.Proving them wrong I became a celebrity publicist to clients like Big Percy,Trudotp,Dr Chill,Onyx and more. Then moved to creating and producing celebrity red carpet events for official Super Bowl after party ,BET after party and IHeart Radio party and More.Adding to the list I became a Market research analyst where I worked with brands like Tyson,Target,Vons,Mercedes,LAX,City of Santa Monica, Gatorade,Nike and more it has proven to be one of my jobs that’s a little more challenging because you don’t see Black Women in that industry much. Lastly I’m a celebrity hair/ makeup artist with clients such as Todd Bridges,Ruthie Connell,Kathleen Gati,Kerri Kasem,Jesse Kove,Melanie Liburd,DJ Twitch to name a few. In addition l own a mobile beauty and wellness team that will deliver services where ever you are. So one of my big things are you can do all the things you dream of but you have to stay busy. Daily prayer,meditation,yoga,and exercise and believing is vital to your longevity.
4. Who are some Black women in history or today that inspire you, and how have they influenced your path?
Princess Va’Shion: I’m inspired by Michelle Obama,Beyoncé,Serena Williams and many more. They have taught me to stay humble,focused,relentless,and powerful.
5. Your brand, Perceptive by Princess Va’Shion, is all about empowerment. How do you use beauty and wellness to uplift women of color?
Princess Va’Shion: I use beauty and wellness to up lift everyone. I’m a celebrity event creator so I produce my own beauty & wellness events to uplift the women and men by providing a safe space to heal and build together.
6. What advice would you give to young Black women looking to break into the beauty, fashion, or entertainment industries?
Princess Va’Shion: Attend cosmetology school ,follow with some specialty courses for hair cutting for example. Look for a mentor that does what you would like to do. Education is key.
7. As a mentor and philanthropist, how are you giving back to the Black community and inspiring future generations?
Princess Va’Shion: I have empowerment events open to everyone.Also I produce celebrity basketball games with the community in the for front. Being an AAU youth basketball coach I used that opportunity to help mentor the next generation.
8. What legacy do you hope to leave as a Black woman entrepreneur and leader ?
Princess Va’Shion: I would hope to inspire the youth to push your self don’t think anything is going to be easy but it will be a beautiful challenge.You must go it. Don’t limit yourself to a certain level or community. Be strong and universal. All things are possible.
