Valerie John Lewis is the founder of the vegan beauty brand Couture Cosmetics London. It’s Valerie's mission to ensure that beauty products are cruelty-free and using plant-based quality ingredients. Her most recent collection, Brown Skin Girl, has been developed to represent a spectrum of inclusive beauty standards.
 

How did you get to where you are today?

Resilience is by far what has got me to where I am today. Never giving up on my dreams has instilled a strong backbone you need in business. Being able to take constructive criticism is vital, feedback will help you improve your product or service so don’t let it dampen your spirits. Having a supportive family network & close friends is my therapy, they always uplift me  & support me especially through challenging times.
Having the courage to step out & walk by faith is key, as you must believe in yourself. Knowing that this is your purpose & trusting your instincts is paramount. Failing forward is part of the journey if something doesn’t go as planned it can be disheartening, but it is important to learn the lessons. From these lessons, you can perfect your craft. It is always in the midst of the darkness that we see the light.

What does women's empowerment mean to you?

Women’s Empowerment means being a role model by encouraging others to accomplish their goals. Motivating women to be confident through sharing my journey. Putting on empowering events last year in 2020 I put on a Self-love event for Galentine's day, 14th February for women to feel uplifted, empowered & pampered. It is so important to give back & celebrate each other. Being an Ambassador for my brand Couture Cosmetics London a vegan cosmetics beauty brand celebrating & empowering women by providing diverse shades of beauty products; lipstick, lipgloss & nail polish.
Couture Cosmetics London is an eco-friendly beauty brand designed to be beneficial to its consumer's health with natural ingredients. By providing non-toxic ingredients free from synthetic, mineral oil, petrochemicals & cruelty.

What advice would you give to young women today?

Celebrate your small wins & journal them. This is good for tracking your process. Remember that your potential is greater than your problem. Have a reminder of your goals; save them as an image on your phone screen to encourage you to keep going.

Which women inspire you?

My Mother & Grandmother inspire me through seeing their hardworking ethic, determination & kindness is my inspiration.
Oprah & Ilyanza Vanzant are women that inspire me through their powerful stories of resilience & strength. Their courage & determination to succeed despite their hardships. Yet still encourage others & motivate them through their struggles is uplifting & heartwarming.
Mya Angelo’s words of wisdom are nurturing. Her words of strength feed my soul her words of wisdom is a light that guides me through challenging times. Her grace is humble yet so powerful.
Kimora Lee Simmons’ ability to step into her spotlight & celebrate herself is inspiring. Never dimming her light to make others feel comfortable. Being her true self & empowering other women through fashion shows, speaking engagements & showing up as herself. She has taught me to create my own “Life in The Fab Lane”.