top of page
Writer's pictureMalvika Khera

Transforming Beauty and Empowering Indigenous Communities: Jenn Harper's Journey with Cheekbone Beauty




Jenn Harper's journey with Cheekbone Beauty began with a powerful dream about three Indigenous girls wearing lip gloss. This dream served as a catalyst for her entrepreneurial spirit, igniting a passion to create a beauty brand that would celebrate her Indigenous heritage, diversify the beauty industry, and give back to her community.


Since its launch in 2015, Cheekbone Beauty has stayed true to its original mission and has experienced remarkable growth and recognition, expanding its product line and gaining availability in prominent retailers such as Sephora and JCPenney. Additionally, the brand has garnered attention from celebrities like Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively and Lily Gladstone, who have embraced Cheekbone Beauty as their go-to brand for lip products.


Amidst the glitz and glamor of celebrity endorsements and retail success, the central focus of Cheekbone Beauty lies in its ability to make a meaningful impact in the lives of indigenous individuals and communities. 


'We are a BCORP so we give back 2% to the community every time someone purchases our products. We’ve also been giving out scholarships since 2021 and were able to award 10 students last year,' notes Jenn Harper.

Through the company's scholarship program, Cheekbone Beauty continues to uphold its core values of empowerment, education, and social responsibility, reaffirming its status as a beauty brand with a purpose beyond profit.


When asked if she has any advice for BIPOC folks who are learning how to do their makeup, Jenn noted that there are “no rules when it comes to doing your makeup, there are rules that people put in place but it doesn’t necessarily apply to people of color.” Jenn further emphasizes, “When the system isn’t made for you, that’s when you have to make your own brand.”


These statements reflect Cheekbone Beauty's commitment to inclusivity and challenging traditional beauty standards. By acknowledging that conventional makeup norms may not cater to the diverse needs and preferences of BIPOC individuals, Jenn encourages embracing individuality and creativity in makeup application. 


Additionally, her assertion that creating one's own brand is necessary when existing systems fail to represent or accommodate marginalized communities highlights Cheekbone Beauty's mission to provide a platform for empowerment and self-expression. 

Through these insights, Cheekbone Beauty continues to empower individuals to embrace their unique identities and advocate for inclusivity beyond the beauty industry.


To learn more about Cheekbone Beauty and stay updated on their latest launches and initiatives, you can sign up for their newsletter. By subscribing, you'll be among the first to know about upcoming releases, special promotions, and events, especially during Indigenous History Month in June and August.


6 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page