Monique Rodriguez is an American entrepreneur and the founder of Mielle Organics, a hair care and beauty brand.

Monique Rodriguez
Born
Chicago, Illinois, US
NationalityAmerican
Occupation(s)Entrepreneur, CEO, philanthropist
Known forFounder of Mielle Organics

Early life and education

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Monique Rodriguez was raised in Chicago, Illinois.[1] She developed an interest in hair care at an early age, influenced by her mother's homemade hair treatments. Rodriguez pursued a career in nursing.

Career

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Rodriguez founded Mielle Organics in 2014. The company offers products designed specifically for textured hair, including shampoos, conditioners, oils, and styling products.[2][3]

In January 2023, Rodriguez announced the sale of Mielle Organics to Procter & Gamble (P&G).[4][5]

Philanthropic work

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Rodriguez launched a venture fund in 2023, to provide financial and mentorship support to minority-owned businesses in the beauty and wellness industries.[6][7]

Personal life

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Rodriguez said in 2019 that a family tragedy motivated her to pursue a career in hair care full-time.[8]

Awards and recognition

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Rodriguez was recognized as one of CNBC's "Changemakers" in 2024 for her impact on the beauty industry and her efforts to support Black women entrepreneurs[9]

References

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  1. ^ "How This Millionaire Mom Turned A Health Tragedy Into Triumph". Forbes. Forbes Media. February 11, 2019. Retrieved May 28, 2024.
  2. ^ "Who Gets to Use a Hair Oil?". The New York Times. The New York Times Company. April 5, 2023. Retrieved May 28, 2024.
  3. ^ "How to Launch a Black Beauty Brand". Business of Fashion. The Business of Fashion. May 20, 2022. Retrieved May 28, 2024.
  4. ^ "This Black founder sold her company to P&G—why she says she's 'selling up,' not selling out". CNBC. CNBC LLC. January 21, 2023. Retrieved May 28, 2024.
  5. ^ "Mielle Organics Co-Founders On Remaining True To Customers With Proctor & Gamble Acquisition". Forbes. Forbes Media. January 12, 2023. Retrieved May 28, 2024.
  6. ^ "Mielle Organics Founder Monique Rodriguez To Launch Her Own Venture Fund". Inc. Mansueto Ventures. March 1, 2023. Retrieved May 28, 2024.
  7. ^ "Mielle Organics' Monique Rodriguez Is Spearheading Her Own Venture Fund". Essence. Essence Communications. March 2, 2023. Retrieved May 28, 2024.
  8. ^ "Mielle Organics Founder Monique Rodriguez On Growing A Company Out Of Tragedy". CBS News. CBS Interactive. January 25, 2019. Retrieved May 28, 2024.
  9. ^ "Monique Rodriguez, CNBC Changemakers". CNBC. CNBC LLC. February 28, 2024. Retrieved May 28, 2024.