Madam C. J. Walker

Who she is: 

Born Sarah Breedlove, Madam C. J. Walker built a national haircare company serving Black women in the early 1900s. She trained an independent salesforce, opened a factory and beauty school, and promoted healthy hair practices. Walker utilized advertising, branding, and personal appearances to reach customers directly. She also became a major philanthropist and advocate.

 

Why she matters: 

Walker proved that solving a real need can create jobs, dignity, and community power. Her distribution model and training programs anticipated the rise of modern direct sales and influencer marketing. She invested profits in education and civil rights, demonstrating how business can be a lever for change. For students, her legacy blends product innovation with purpose.