Gina Woods, a seasoned social entrepreneur and co-founder of the award-winning vegan beauty brand Donna’s Recipe, exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, grace, and unwavering commitment to community. Alongside beloved actress and “America’s Mom” Tabitha Brown, Gina helped transform Donna’s Recipe into a household name—now gracing shelves in more than 1,000 Target locations and every Ulta Beauty store nationwide. It’s a milestone rarely achieved by Black-owned brands, and it’s only part of Gina’s inspiring story.
As a mother of four and the heartbeat of a vibrant, sports-loving household, Gina finds deep meaning in the beautiful chaos of motherhood. “Mother’s Day is a time to pause and reflect,” she shares. “It’s about being present—with my kids, my husband, and myself. Whether it’s a beach day, a backyard whiffle ball game, or simply sharing a home-cooked meal, I celebrate by grounding myself in the love we’ve built.”
Juggling the roles of mother, mentor, and mogul, Gina’s secret lies not in chasing balance, but in cultivating harmony. “I calendar family time like I do board meetings,” she says. “One moment, I’m discussing strategy with Ulta executives, and the next, I’m on the mic at my son’s baseball game. Systems help, but so does giving myself grace.”
Motherhood has deeply shaped her approach to leadership. “It taught me to lead with heart and intuition,” she explains. “I value people over process, and I listen. Parenting and building a brand both require a nurturing touch—strategy with a soul.”
Gina’s children have witnessed her journey firsthand. Whether it’s behind-the-scenes product testing or the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, they’ve grown up understanding what it takes to build something meaningful. “My kids are learning that success comes from integrity, consistency, and action. My daughter sees a woman in leadership, and my sons see their mother as a builder. That visibility matters.”
That same vision led to the creation of the LA Kids Entrepreneur Camp—a space where children explore business basics and bold dreams. “I started the camp to give kids what I didn’t have—early exposure to entrepreneurship,” she explains. “I mentor like a mom: with structure, love, and belief. It’s a space where kids can fail forward and grow strong.”
For fellow moms yearning to start their own ventures, Gina offers a grounded yet empowering message: “Start now. There’s no perfect time. You’re already a leader—every diaper change, every grocery run, every bedtime story is proof. Build as you go. Your dreams are worthy.”
Through it all—leading a multi-million dollar brand, raising four children, and mentoring the next generation—Gina stays rooted in her faith. “Success doesn’t always feel like success,” she admits. “But I know it’s not just me. It’s God’s strength, my family’s support, and the people lifting behind the scenes. This journey is hard work, but it’s also grace.”
Gina Woods is a testament to what’s possible when motherhood and mission go hand in hand—a living example that with faith, community, and fierce determination, you can raise both children and empires.
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