Rooted in Her Spotlight: Arianna Howell of The Haircare Project

Meet Arianna Howell: The Soul and hands of The Haircare Project

Meet Arianna Howell, a licensed natural hairstylist and founder of The Haircare Project, a Memphis-based nonprofit that’s redefining what it means to care for others—one strand at a time. With over seven years of experience in the beauty industry, Arianna has turned her personal trials into a mission-driven movement, addressing something many don’t often talk about: haircare insecurity.

For Arianna, beauty isn’t vanity—it’s dignity. Her organization provides free haircare products, services, and education to those facing homelessness, poverty, or transition, helping people regain confidence, professionalism, and self-worth through accessible self-care.

Arianna Howell, Founder of The Haircare Project

What inspired you to start The Haircare Project?

“I started this work because I struggled so much from lack of self-care and love when I lost my job and didn’t have any money for myself. I couldn’t even afford to make my hair look presentable for interviews. Through therapy, I began to see what God intended—that my struggle had a purpose. I was meant to help others through similar seasons.”

Arianna’s story is one of empathy born from experience. Having faced homelessness as a child and economic hardship as an adult, she saw firsthand how something as simple as clean, styled hair could shape how a person feels, and how they’re perceived. The Haircare Project bridges that gap—restoring dignity while meeting a tangible need.

How do you stay rooted when things get tough?

“God and my community keep me rooted when things get tough. Knowing that what I’m doing is bigger than me keeps me going.”

Faith and community form the core of Arianna’s resilience. Her belief in divine purpose fuels her through every challenge, reminding her that her mission extends beyond products and hairstyles—it’s about restoring self-belief and belonging.

What recent accomplishment or milestone are you proud of?

“My recent accomplishment was securing a partnership with the University of Memphis P.A.U.S.E. Program for an activation!”

This upcoming partnership will mark an exciting milestone for The Haircare Project. In March 2026, the organization will partner with the University of Memphis P.A.U.S.E. (Professional Assertive United Sisters of Excellence) Program—a campus initiative that empowers women of all backgrounds through mentorship, leadership, and self-development.

Together, they will host an activation focused on haircare education, live demonstrations, and free product giveaways for students, along with a career readiness segment exploring how beauty and professional confidence intersect in corporate spaces.

This collaboration reflects Arianna’s ongoing vision to create spaces where women feel seen, supported, and equipped to thrive—both personally and professionally.

How can people support you or get involved with The Hair Care Project?

“We need more people to know about this initiative so we can reach more people. You can help by sharing our story, donating haircare products, or making a monetary gift. Every donation helps us supply shelters, transitional homes, and community pantries with essential haircare items.”

Community is the foundation of this movement. Whether it’s a bottle of conditioner or a conversation that spreads awareness, every act of support helps The Haircare Project bring confidence and care to someone who needs it most.

Learn More

Visit thehaircareproject.com to learn more, get involved, or donate.

You can also follow Arianna and The Haircare Project on social media for updates on upcoming activations and community events.

Learn more about the University of Memphis P.A.U.S.E. Program here.

🌿 About the Rooted in Her Series

Rooted in Her is a spotlight series created by J Creative Consulting. It celebrates innovative, women-led brands that plant bold ideas, nurture change, and conduct business differently. Each feature shares the story of a founder leading with heart, vision, and purpose.

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