Who is Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks?
Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks is a celebrated pioneer in the beauty industry, known for her transformative artistry and unwavering commitment to inclusivity. With over 25 years of experience, Ashunta has left her mark on every corner of the beauty world—spanning fashion, editorial, campaigns, red carpets, film, Broadway, and television. Her stellar roster of A-list clients includes Alicia Keys, Rihanna, Zendaya, Taraji P. Henson, Aja Naomi King, Paula Abdul, Zoe Kravitz, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Tracee Ellis Ross, Ava DuVernay, Sharon Stone, and countless others.
Ashunta’s groundbreaking work has earned her two Emmy nominations for redefining beauty through the iconic character Cookie Lyon on the hit TV series Empire. Her artistry further shone on the Oscar-winning film Hidden Figures, elevating her career to extraordinary heights. Beyond the red carpet and camera lenses, Ashunta has served as a brand ambassador and product developer for leading prestige and mass-market beauty brands, showcasing her unmatched expertise and innovation in the field.
As a thought leader, Ashunta has broken barriers in the beauty industry, representing Black female beauty brand founders on a White House DEI panel and working alongside Senator Butler to advocate for equitable funding policies for women-owned businesses. Her influence extends beyond beauty, shaping policies and amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities.
At the heart of Ashunta’s work is her philosophy: beauty should be inclusive, accessible, and empowering. This vision is embodied in Ashunta Sheriff Beauty, her clean, vegan, cruelty-free brand designed for everyone—from teens exploring their first pop of color to Ageless Beauties seeking high-performance, life-proof formulations. Her passion lies in creating a cross-generational beauty brand where mothers and daughters can share rituals and products, fostering connections through the timeless traditions of beauty. “It is the beauty secrets our mothers pass down that become a part of our rituals for beauty,” Ashunta shares.
Ashunta’s journey is defined by excellence and innovation, but also by her dedication to mentorship. She has inspired countless up-and-coming artists, sharing her knowledge and empowering the next generation of beauty professionals to reach their full potential.
From award-winning products to her advocacy on global stages, Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks continues to inspire and lead with passion. Her work proves that beauty has no limits and serves as a testament to the transformative power of inclusivity, artistry, and community.