MEET THE FOUNDERS

  • Cassandra Celestin

    Cassandra Celestin, known as The Beauty Chemist, is a cosmetic chemist with degrees in Chemistry and Cosmetic Science and licensure as a cosmetologist. As a college professor, she teaches the latest advancements in formulation and application to future professionals. With extensive experience developing high-performance personal care products for global brands, Cassandra ensures rigorous standards through clinical and salon performance evaluations. A skilled hair colorist, stylist, trichologist, and makeup artist, she has worked with celebrities across print, theater, television, and film, with her work featured in elite magazines and major networks. Passionate about self-care, she emphasizes quality raw materials, techniques, and application. Beyond her industry work, she mentors in STEM and beauty, supports women’s welfare through nonprofits, and inspires the next generation in science and beauty.

  • Montalee' Chavious-Berry

    As accomplished Product Development Manager with expertise in cosmetic science and public health, Montalee combines technical precision with market insight to drive beauty innovation. Leading global product development for a prominent beauty brand, she has crafted award-winning formulas, earning industry recognition. She holds a Master’s in Pharmaceutical Science specializing in Cosmetic Science from the University of Cincinnati, a Master’s in Public Health, and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Tuskegee University. As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she is passionate about community engagement and mentoring young children. Her expertise spans formulation development, project management, and regulatory compliance, with a data-driven approach that drives growth and enhances brand presence.

  • Eunice Cofie-Obeng

    Eunice Cofie-Obeng is making great strides in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. She is the Founder and Chief Cosmetic Chemist of Nuekie - an innovative health and beauty company for people of color. Eunice is a graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry/molecular biology, University of Cincinnati James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy with a Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences with an emphasis in Cosmetic Science and has completed the Harvard Kennedy School of Government Global Leadership and Public Policy Executive Education program. She is a Glossier Grantee, New Voices Pitch Please Competition winner, and Miller Coors Business Pitch Competition.

  • Desiree Crenshaw

    CEO and Lead Chemist of TGS Labs + Consultancy (formerly The Glam Scientist), a leading product development and formulation firm servicing the masstige and prestige beauty markets. Desiree’s extensive career as a Cosmetic Chemist has spanned from formulation and manufacturing to strategic product development and consulting. Since 2009, Desiree has been an integral part of bringing new beauty brands to market as well as expanding the reach of existing brands.

  • Cynthia Johnson

    Cynthia Johnson is a visionary cosmetic chemist and the Founder and CEO of Cindy J Cosmetic Labs and The Cosmetic Concept LLC. With a B.S. in Chemistry from The Lincoln University and an M.S. in Cosmetic Science from the University of Cincinnati, she empowers beauty entrepreneurs to launch innovative Hair and Skin Care products. A Green Star Award recipient, Cynthia champions sustainable practices and high-efficacy formulations featured in JCPenney Beauty, Allure, and more. As Area IV Director of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists and co-founder of Black Women in Cosmetic Chemistry Inc., she’s a key leader shaping an inclusive beauty industry.

  • Bria Phair

    Bria Phair, known as Bre, is an experienced cosmetic chemist with over five years in the industry. She holds a B.S. in Chemistry from Towson University and an M.S. in Cosmetic Science from the esteemed University of Cincinnati. As a Chemist II at House of Cheatham, she leads product development, turning innovative ideas into market-ready formulations. Passionate about mentoring, Bria also volunteers with TRIO Upward Bound, guiding high school students in STEM, particularly cosmetic science. With a deep love for both science and beauty, she stays abreast of industry trends, exploring new ingredients and technologies to shape the future of cosmetics.

  • Rachel Robertson-Johnson

    Rachel Robertson Johnson, a distinguished alumna of Valdosta State University, is Chief Cosmetic Chemist and mastermind behind The Charismatic Chemist, a pioneering formulation consulting company and small-batch manufacturer.  Leveraging over 10 years in research and development, Johnson co-creates innovative cosmetic and personal care products for a wide range of brands. She is highly skilled in formulating Color Cosmetics, OTC, and clinically proven products. Her expertise particularly shines in Indie Beauty business development and crafting clean, organic, and natural formulations. A captivating speaker and fierce STEM advocate, Johnson spearheads programs that introduce the exciting world of cosmetic chemistry to students of all ages. Johnson exemplifies resilience as she continues to etch pathways in the cosmetic industry.

  • Britney Yates

    A research chemist with a diverse background across the Food, Cosmetics, and Consumer Packaged Goods industries. Her broad experience working with cross-functional teams and supply chain divisions provides her the opportunity to be creative in finding points of innovation/improvement by connecting the dots, both inside and outside of the laboratory. Britney earned a Bachelor's of Science in Chemistry from Lemoyne-Owen College and a Master's of Business and Science in Personal Care Science from Rutgers University.