Akousa Asare (iBBA ’16)

When Akousa Asare (iBBA ’16) started experiencing hair loss in high school, she became interested in wigs and discovered the power they had in facilitating self-expression and boosting confidence.

She soon realized that customers had limited options when it came to product styles and sizes and that there was a need for a consolidated database that includes how-to videos, styling tips and a community of advisors.

Asare decided to launch Essence Luxe Couture, an e-commerce site specifically focused on providing customers with made-to-fit, film-quality wigs that are sustainably sourced and meticulously handmade by a female-led production team.

“Over the past three years, through customer interactions, I discovered that there were glaring pain points, that nobody was attempting to resolve,” Akousa said. This inspired her to develop an AI-powered application, called Muse, that allow customers to virtually try on and purchase wigs and hair extensions that perfectly compliment the customer’s facial features, skin tone, and personality.

“It is a virtually immersive experience that mimics an in-salon experience, all from the comfort of one’s own homes, and all with a product that looks impeccably natural and fits like a glove,” shared Asare. She envisions a partnership with Sephora once the application launches, in which they could recommend a complete look that includes lipstick, eyelashes, and much more.

Since the store’s inception, Asare has grossed over $180K in sales, been featured in Shopify’s Independents Campaign (1, 2) winning the ‘People’s Choice Award’ and Bereskin & Parr LLP Startup Innovation Award at the most recent Schulich Startup Night. She was also a Young Professional of the Year Nominee for the Small & Mighty Summit (2020), and is now a part of this year’s cohort of the LaunchYU Accelerator.

“I firmly believe that entrepreneurship is the key to female empowerment and black empowerment,” shared Asare.