NaKeitha Ross – an alumni of the University of Houston with a degree in communications and marketing, NaKeitha opened her salon, 360 Degrees Hair Studio, fifteen years ago and is the global artistic director for McBride Research Laboratories. She educates fellow stylists at salons across the nation as well the Caribbean and has won numerous awards for her work. In August 2012, she was awarded by Bonner Brothers and Ford Motors as one of the Top Ten Stylists in the nation!
Ross is a strong believer in giving back to the community and naturally she would start at home, Houston, TX. by partnering with longtime friend, LaShonda Pierce, to establish I.C.O.N. Women’s Organization in 2010 to connect and provide resources and empowerment to women and children.
NaKeitha has been awarded and recognized for her service and contribution in the beauty industry, as well as in the community breaking barriers of socioeconomic statuses and bridging gaps. She serves as the nonprofit’s CEO and co-founder. This organization is an extension of her career in beauty both focuses on uplifting people inside and out. Giving back to the community and empowering women is how NaKeitha sows her seeds into the universe through I.C.O.N. Women’s Organization. As a result of her initiative and efforts, NaKeitha was recently was presented with a congressional recognition from Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee.
She married her high school sweetheart and the two have created a beautiful family with a daughter and a son.
LaShonda Pierce – equipped with a tape measure and a Ph. D. in love and compassion, LaShonda Pierce believes everyone should look and live beautifully. She has followed her passion for fashion professionally for over 14 years as a fashion and interior designer.
LaShonda took her love of beautiful spaces, places and pieces and established LaPierce Designs as a fashion forward interior and clothing design firm debuting in 2009. LaPierce Designs creates spectacular spaces for homes and businesses; creating exquisite environments with love. LaShonda is currently working on her newest venture, the Fancy Flea Market in conjunction with LaPierce Designs.
LaShonda’s love for the community encouraged her to help establish I.C.O.N. Women’s Organization in 2010 to educate and elevate women and children and lead to being honored with a congressional recognition from Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. To date, the organization has graciously awarded $100k in scholarships to deserving students, and consistently offer various monthly mentoring programs with community partners such as the YWCA, Star of Hope, Forge for Families and more.
When LaShonda is a mom to her charismatic 20 year old son Keelyn. LaShonda is currently writing a book, titled “Positive, Passionate, and Purposeful” which is scheduled to release the spring of 2018.