CEO Sparkle Howell of Vanyana Organics: Championing Authenticity and Shattering Barriers in Health and Wellness as a Black Female Entrepreneur

Sparkle’s journey into the health and wellness industry was shaped by her 20 years of experience in corporate America, particularly within the health sector. Throughout her career, Sparkle encountered numerous challenges related to her gender and race, often finding herself needing to adapt and conform to stay ahead. This experience made it clear to her that there was a need for a space where authenticity could shine—where people could truly be themselves. Driven by this realization, Sparkle decided to create a health and wellness business that allows others to sparkle without compromising who they are. With a background in building and contributing to the success of Fortune 500 teaching hospitals, Sparkle knew she had the skills and experience to create something meaningful on her own. Her time in corporate America fueled her desire to establish a business that celebrates authenticity and enables individuals to find their own sparkle.

Growing her health and wellness business has come with its own set of challenges, particularly as a Black female entrepreneur in industries like cannabis, where representation is strikingly low. Despite Black individuals making up about 13% of the U.S. population, they hold less than 2% of cannabis business ownership, reflecting broader systemic inequalities. To overcome these barriers, Sparkle has focused on leveraging her expertise, advocating for racial and social justice, and building a strong network to help break through these obstacles and thrive in the industry. These efforts have been crucial in not just finding success but also in creating a space where others can discover their own sparkle in an industry that has often overlooked them.

To ensure that her products and services remain innovative and relevant in the fast-paced health and wellness industry, Sparkle concentrates on more than just supply and demand. While quality and reliability are vital, she understands that people often connect with the values and mission behind a company. This is why her business stands out—they are actively involved in giving back to the community, sponsoring organizations that uplift local areas, and consistently delivering safe, high-quality products. This approach helps maintain a strong connection with customers and ensures that Sparkle’s brand continues to shine brightly in the eyes of those they serve.

Building and maintaining a loyal customer base in such a competitive market involves creating a sense of exclusivity and personal connection. One of the strategies that has worked well for Sparkle is offering one-on-one consultations. This allows her to truly understand and cater to each client’s unique needs, something that larger chains often overlook. By valuing her customers and providing a personalized experience, Sparkle has been able to stand out in the market and foster lasting relationships. This personalized touch ensures that clients feel valued and helps them shine as they reach their health and wellness goals.

Balancing the demands of running a business, managing family responsibilities, and maintaining a presence as a media personality is an ongoing challenge. Early on, Sparkle was completely immersed in her entrepreneurial vision, but over time, she learned the importance of cherishing family milestones. Prioritizing means sometimes making difficult choices, saying no to certain opportunities, and focusing on what truly matters in both her professional and personal life. This balance allows Sparkle to shine in every aspect of her life, without feeling overwhelmed or stretched too thin.

For those who aspire to follow a similar path, Sparkle’s advice is to start by seeking guidance from God and listening to what you feel called to do. Pursue your dreams with unwavering passion, even when the road gets tough and you feel like giving up. Educate yourself thoroughly—understand every facet of your business, from administration to finance to marketing, and connect with others in the field. Share your journey with your family; you might be surprised by the love and support you receive. Keep pushing forward, and never lose sight of your vision. Your dreams deserve to sparkle, so go out there and make them a reality.

Stay connected with her on Social Media @sparklepriceless1 and @vayanaorganics | Website

Follow Us On Social Media!

About the author