Chances are you’ve heard of Lil 'FlexMami’ Ahenkan. She’s an MTV presenter and DJ who is just now stepping into the beauty influencer game; and whether she’s playing at events (from beauty launches to festivals) or working on social content, Lil’s ever-present goal of representing the local beauty industry for women of colour is making people take notice.
BD chats with to Lil to learn more about her impressive resume, and what drew her to the world of beauty.
You’re the ultimate slashie – can you please tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got into what you’re doing now?
My names Lil, but I'm often referred to as my moniker FlexMami. I'm a 23 year old DJ, TV presenter, and writer. I got into my current career path purely because I had the desire to be paid to be myself. Sounds nonsensical, but crazier things have happened.
What made you want to get into the beauty game?
I'm a creative by nature and I'm always looking for new and exciting ways to express that. Beauty has always been an insane interest, but I remember struggling to find products to compliment my skin tone. Fast forward a few years to the rise of the beauty influencer, and finally after years of searching, I've not only discovered products that work for me, but amazing fellow POC influencers who've been integral to my craft.
What does an average day look like for you?
Emails, emails, emails, strategizing content, DJ-ing, reading self help articles, watching YouTube, and finding more ways to diversify my income stream.
Best thing about the industry you work in?
Well this pertains specifically to the music industry. I love that I get paid to have fun, dress up and ultimately be myself.
What’s your favourite thing about Instagram?
Initially I was most inspired by the fact that it connected to a tonne of different people from all over the world. That in itself is still mind blowing, but if I'm going to be transparent, it's the fact that it's a viable career path and source of income.
Which trend is exciting you about the beauty industry right now?
The return of editorial looks and colour! For so long, the beauty industry has been so focused on camouflaging your skin, and changing your features in a way that mirrors wizardry. I'm a big fan of that, but i'm a bigger fan of using makeup as an extension of aesthetically representing yourself. It should be fun.
Which brand or person do you think is doing innovative things in the industry?
Huge, huge, HUGE fan of 3ina and their ethos that focuses of colour and cruelty free products. Kester Black has a similar ethos with I love. Oh, and Glossier, duh.
Who in the industry do you most admire?
Anna Ross, the brains behind Kester Black. Zoë Foster Blake of Go To Skincare.
Are you open to collaborating with brands?
Most definitely! It's my favourite thing to do.
Top networking tip?
Make yourself useful. Worry about how to communicate and quantify your value, before you approach someone to mine them for information.
Who is your favourite person to follow on Instagram?
@v93oo – a constant source of inspiration.
What is your signature fragrance?
Elie Saab Rose Couture
What are your can’t live without beauty products?
Concealer, contour, and blush.
Your mantra / philosophy is?
When you know better you do better.
In business, if someone tells you no, you're speaking to the wrong person.
You're more capable than you think, and everyone knows it.
If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing?
I'd still be working in Digital Marketing or PR, for sure.
