by Jennifer Velasquez

Today we are chatting with team member Kadidja Kabore-Lamport to learn about her natural beauty brand Kadidja based here in the East Village. She shared with us the importance of shea to her culture and brand and the difference a good website makes.

NYHC: Tell us about what you make

Kadidja Kabore-Lamport: I make very high quality, all-natural beauty products using 100% organic shea butter and shea oil that I buy from West Africa sources. I use essential oils to create unique handmade products in my kitchen in the East Village.

NYHC: What is unique or different about your process and/or designs?

KKL: My products are simple and real and reflect my West African culture, which I carry with me from growing up in Gando, Togo. Shea is a big part of life in Gando and across West Africa!

NYHC: Do you have any favorite pieces? What makes them special to you?

KKL: My favorite product is the shea oils! They are amazing. You can feel the quality of shea oil as soon as it touches your skin. It moisturizes and protects skin.

NYHC: What is your favorite tool or supply?

KKL: My favorite supply is shea! Shea butter and shea oil are very special. They remind me of my mother and sisters in the village because only women collect shea nuts and only women make shea. Shea unites women, women make it in groups as it takes a lot of work.

NYHC: Is there a new piece/opportunity/change that you're excited about?

KKL: I am very excited that more and more to me the world is going natural! You probably saw the pictures of dunes and skies that are now beautiful because pollution has decreased. We all know natural is better for us in every way!

NYHC: Share an important lesson you've learned from running your business.

KKL: An important lesson I’ve learned is how to put together a business plan! I’m still working on it really. It’s a lot of work! Also, have a good website. I put a lot of work into my website and it is where I get a lot of sales!