Zandra Cunningham: Teen Entrepreneur Behind Million Dollar Beauty Brand

Zandra Cunningham began her business career when she was nine years old, following a simple request to her father that gave rise to a radical idea. When he refused to buy her yet another lip balm, she decided to make one herself. Fueled by curiosity and a strong will, she conducted experiments in her kitchen using natural ingredients, laying the foundation for what would one day be a thriving company.

This small experiment flowered into Zandra Beauty, a natural skincare business committed to providing natural, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly products. From scrubs and lip balms to lotions and soaps, Zandra’s products are an expression of her passion for healthy skin and green beauty.

Building a Brand with Purpose

More than a beauty business, Zandra Beauty has a powerful message. Each product is crafted not only to heal skin but to empower youth—especially girls—to believe in themselves. Packets contain affirmations and motivational quotes, reminding customers that confidence and self-love are part of beauty.

Zandra’s brand philosophy goes beyond skincare. Her mission is education, empowerment, and advocacy. She believes in starting early and wants to create a new generation of young entrepreneurs.

Empowering the Next Generation

In order to keep her cause going, Zandra Cunningham began the Zandra TLC Foundation. From this foundation, she hosts workshops and training programs that teach entrepreneurship, money handling, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) skills to young girls. Through sharing her own story and giving practical tools, Zandra teaches others that success is achievable—no matter what age.

She also conducts frequent talks at schools and conferences, inspiring her peers to turn their passion into entrepreneurial possibilities. She serves as a beacon of hope for many through the initiative of empowerment for youth.

Recognition and Expansion

Zandra’s incredible story has hit the national headlines. She has been featured in Black Enterprise, Forbes, Inc., and Seventeen Magazine. She was even awarded Youth Entrepreneur of the Year by the Small Business Administration—one of the youngest to ever receive the award.

Today, Zandra Beauty products are also available at chain stores like Target and Whole Foods. This step is a leap of a giant proportion for a company that started in a home kitchen with few ingredients and immense passion.

A Role Model to Student Entrepreneurs

Zandra Cunningham’s story teaches us that one is never too young to start. Through passion, hard work, and a clear vision, young people can achieve something great. She inspires student entrepreneurs worldwide that their ideas matter, their voice matters, and their dream is worth chasing.