At only 12 years old, Zoe Oli from Atlanta has already become a successful young entrepreneur, surprising many with her business acumen. What prompted Zoe to start her own company at such a young age may be unexpected.
Zoe is the co-founder and CEO of “Beautiful Curly Me,” a company that has garnered attention for her entrepreneurial journey. She is passionate about delivering speeches at school, conferences, and corporate events, inspiring young people to dream big and pursue their goals.
According to a report by “CNBC Make It,” Zoe, a young African-American girl with curly hair, faced teasing from classmates, which led to her feeling discouraged at the age of 6. She asked her mother, Evana Oli, why she didn’t have straight hair like others.
To help Zoe rebuild her confidence and embrace her natural beauty, Evana used positive affirmations and real-life examples. She even bought Zoe a doll with skin similar to hers but straight hair. This prompted Zoe to tell her mother that she wanted to start a company making curly-haired dolls.
Initially skeptical, Evana eventually supported Zoe by investing $5,000 from her savings to design the doll prototype, find a cost-effective manufacturer, and establish the company “Beautiful Curly Me” when Zoe was 7 years old.
Zoe serves as the CEO of the company, focusing on the creative aspects of the business, while Evana handles most of the administrative operations, from budgeting to drafting contracts. The company’s products include curly-haired brown dolls, children’s books, and hair care products. Zoe is also an author of several children’s books.
Based on documents reviewed by “CNBC Make It,” in 2022, “Beautiful Curly Me” generated six-figure revenue. Evana declined to disclose the revenue for 2023.
As the CEO, Zoe attends meetings, devises social media strategies, and works on product development after school hours. Evana mentioned to “CNBC Make It” that Zoe is very passionate and always thinking ahead, which she admires.
Evana also runs her marketing and product management consulting company. She mentioned that Zoe handles a lot of work herself, but whenever her daughter needs her, she steps in as a “mompreneur.”
Creating “Beautiful Curly Me” changed Zoe’s perception of her curly hair and boosted her confidence. She told FOX 5, “I love my hair. I love my curls, and I really want other girls to feel the same way.”
Zoe is also a co-founder of “Youth Mean Business,” a company that offers funding, mentorship, networking opportunities, and professional workshops to teenage entrepreneurs aged 11 to 17.
Despite juggling two companies, Evana ensures Zoe maintains a balance and enjoys her childhood activities like tennis, track, and theater, alongside her business responsibilities. Zoe manages to prioritize her time effectively, with support from her mother and team.
Evana emphasized the importance of finding balance in Zoe’s life and ensuring she enjoys her childhood fully. She believes that allowing children to pursue their passions is key to their happiness and success.
When it comes to Zoe’s accomplishments, Evana feels fortunate to support her daughter on this journey. The perspective of empowering resilient and successful children is crucial, according to “CNBC Make It.”
Bestselling author and parenting expert Esther Wojcicki shared in “CNBC Make It” that believing in children’s ability to make decisions leads to increased engagement, confidence, and empowerment, resulting in limitless achievements.
Evana agrees with this sentiment, stating, “As Zoe’s support system, my role is to help her achieve her dreams and ensure she doesn’t burn out or take on too much.”