In the bustling center of Nairobi, a beauty revolution is taking place, silently yet surely. Sonal Haria, the charismatic founder of Canvas Cosmetics, is rewriting the African beauty story, lipstick by lipstick.
“I wished to make something that I would desire and that I would wish to purchase,” says Sonal. “Something that speaks to women like me – ambitious, busy, and strongly rooted in our heritage.”
A Vision Born from Necessity
Sonal started off with a modest yet insightful observation: the absence of affordable, quality makeup products that are suited for a variety of skin tones in Kenya. This lack inspired her to start Canvas Cosmetics, a brand that embraces inclusivity, quality, and African identity.
“Every time I traveled, I’d stock up on beauty products because I couldn’t find what I needed back home,” she recalls. “I knew I wasn’t alone in this, and that’s when the idea for Canvas Cosmetics was born.”
Empowering Through Beauty
Canvas Cosmetics isn’t merely about makeup; it’s about empowerment. The philosophy of the brand lies in offering products that maximize natural beauty and instill confidence in oneself. From a line of vegan, cruelty-free products, Canvas Cosmetics accommodates women of every skin color so everyone can find her ideal match.
“Our products are for the woman of today who has many roles in her life but still desires to look and feel her best,” Sonal says. “We’re here to make beauty accessible and empowering.”
Overcoming Obstacles with Strength
Bringing a beauty brand into a market ruled by global giants was no easy task. Sonal was up against everything from procuring high-quality ingredients to establishing the brand name. Still, her unshakeable belief in her vision drove her forward.
“There were times of uncertainty, but I believed in what we were doing,” she says. “Every obstacle was a chance to learn and grow.”
Global Aspirations
Though Canvas Cosmetics originated in Kenya, Sonal’s vision is international. The brand already has a foothold in geographies such as Dubai and the UK, appealing to a diaspora seeking products that affirm their identity.
“Our aim is to bring a part of Africa to the world,” Sonal says. “We need to express the vibrancy of our culture in beauty.”
Beyond Beauty: A Commitment to Mentorship
Sonal’s reach is far beyond makeup. Through companies such as The CB Consulting Group, she guides up-and-coming entrepreneurs, imparting lessons gleaned from her experience. Her passion to enhance others is a testament to her conviction in shared success.
“I want to be the mentor I wished I had,” she says. “If I can help someone avoid the pitfalls I encountered, that’s a win.”
A Personal Reflection
“Each product we make speaks a story,” Sonal reflects. “It is a celebration of resilience, passion, and a belief that beauty can be used as a tool for change.”
Reach out to Sonal Haria and Canvas Cosmetics:
🌐 Website: Canvas Cosmetics
📸 Instagram: @canvas_cosmetics
👩💼 Personal Instagram: @sonalharia
🎵 TikTok: @sonalharia1
💼 LinkedIn: Sonal Haria
📹 YouTube: Sonal Haria’s Journey
Sonal Haria’s biography is a testament to the strength of vision, determination, and the life-changing power of beauty. Through Canvas Cosmetics, she not only makes beauty count but also enables women to make themselves proud of who they are.
