Interview
Asia Jackson
The Woodlands
A Chemical Engineer from Memphis, TN, who built Anjelic Haircare, a science-backed hair & skincare brand, as her work of art.
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01 · On home
Where are you from?
I am originally from the biggest M, Memphis, Tennessee, and I currently reside in The Woodlands, Texas. My college journey began at Tennessee State University, but after my mother decided to relocate from Memphis to Dallas, Texas, I transferred to Prairie View A&M University. I later graduated on May 9, 2026, with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. I have called Texas home for the past four years, and it has truly become my second home. I have grown to love the people, culture, and sense of community here!
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02 · On creativity
What does “being creative” mean to you?
To me, creativity is an extension of who you are. It is the ability to develop original ideas, imagine possibilities, and create something new, whether that is an object, an experience, or even a solution to a problem. I believe many creatives show signs of their creativity from an early age. However, it is equally important to have a village and community of people who pour into you, encourage your ideas, and support your creative journey. I also believe we would see so many more creatives if financial freedom and access to resources were more attainable. Creativity is not limited to the arts, either. I think many creatives naturally possess leadership qualities because they are constantly envisioning possibilities and finding ways to bring those visions to life.
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03 · On becoming
Can you describe the time when you first realized that creating was something you absolutely had to do?
I have been creative for as long as I can remember. I have always paid attention to detail and been intentional about everything I create. Some of my earliest creations included charm bracelets and handmade pins with tape arranged to resemble flowers. My family consistently encouraged me to keep exploring my creativity, and that encouragement played a huge role in shaping who I am today. By high school, I began expressing my creativity through dance and acting. However, it was during my junior year that I discovered my passion for science and realized I wanted to combine science with my creative interests. That was when I began envisioning my own original, science-backed beauty and personal care brand. Eventually, that vision became Anjelic Haircare.
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“ Ultimately, I want people to recognize that there is a story, intention, and creative vision behind everything we do. ”
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04 · On rituals
What kind of creative patterns, routines or rituals do you have?
My creativity usually starts with identifying a problem and thinking about how I can create a solution. I am constantly brainstorming new ideas, exploring possibilities, and thinking about ways to improve what already exists. I also enjoy sharing those ideas with my support team and other creatives. Receiving feedback, exchanging perspectives, and having people challenge my thinking help me determine my next steps. I believe creativity thrives when you allow yourself to collaborate and remain open to learning from others.
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05 · On favorites
What’s your favorite thing you’ve ever created?
Without a doubt, my favorite creation is Anjelic Haircare. This brand has experienced its fair share of challenges, but regardless of the circumstances, it has continued to evolve, grow, and overcome. What makes it so special to me is that it represents much more than a beauty brand. It represents years of passion, determination, creativity, and resilience. I also created it to educate people on the beauty and power that black hair possesses. It brings me so much joy when people recognize the passion behind what I have built and become invested in supporting the vision. Seeing something that started as an idea turn into a brand that reaches and impacts people is one of the most rewarding experiences.
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06 · On meaning
What are you trying to communicate with your art?
I consider Anjelic Haircare a work of art. We are intentional about every detail, from our branding and logo to our product presentation and packaging. We have also made a conscious effort to collaborate with and support Black artists, particularly through the creation of our merchandise and visual branding. Through Anjelic Haircare, I want to communicate that creativity should be present in every aspect of entrepreneurship. It is important to care not only about what you create but also about how you present it to the world. Two of my favorite elements are our logo and packaging. Our logo features my side profile with my locs styled in a pineapple, making it a personal representation of the founder and the brand. Our packaging incorporates abstract design elements that allow us to express our creativity while standing out in the beauty industry. Ultimately, I want people to recognize that there is a story, intention, and creative vision behind everything we do.
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07 · On what's next
Which creative medium would you love to pursue but haven’t yet?
I would love to explore photography and videography in much greater depth. I enjoy capturing moments, telling stories, and finding creative ways to present my ideas visually. I think developing those skills would allow me to express my creativity beyond product development and branding. I would especially love to explore more product photography and creative direction for Anjelic Haircare, where I could bring my vision to life through different concepts, settings, and visual storytelling.
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08 · On advice
What’s the best advice you ever had about how to be more creative?
One of the biggest pieces of advice I would give is to use AI as a tool to help you produce, but never allow it to replace your creativity. Technology can help bring ideas to life, improve efficiency, and streamline processes, but your originality, perspective, and personal touch are what make your work unique. I would also encourage creatives not to be afraid to share their work with the world. Sometimes we hold back because we are waiting for everything to be perfect, but you never know who needs to see your work, who it might inspire, or what opportunities it could create. Be confident in your ideas, put your work out there, and permit yourself to grow along the way.
The work · 4
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