04/02/2025
Annie Turnbo Malone: The Hidden Pioneer of Black Wealth & Beauty
Annie Turnbo Malone was a self-taught chemist, business mogul, and philanthropist, and one of the first Black women to become a millionaire in America. Yet her story is rarely told in full.
Born in 1869 to formerly enslaved parents, Robert and Isabella Turnbo, Annie faced adversity early in life, becoming an orphan at a young age. Despite these challenges, she had a natural talent for chemistry and a profound curiosity about haircare. With no formal training, she developed a line of hair and scalp products for Black women in the early 1900s—long before the mainstream beauty industry acknowledged our needs.
Annie’s empire extended beyond products. She founded Poro College, an institution that provided training and financial opportunities for Black women. At the height of her success, she employed thousands and amassed incredible wealth, owning a mansion and numerous businesses. Her legacy laid the foundation for the modern Black beauty industry. While her former employee, Madam C.J. Walker, became a household name, Walker’s success was built on the foundation Annie established. Rather than a story of contention, it is a testament to the rich tapestry of Black innovation, where one legacy inspires another.
Malone’s life is proof that determination can break barriers, even in a world built to exclude us. Her story reminds us that wealth isn’t just about money—it’s about education, strategy, and innovation. These principles continue to drive Black entrepreneurship today and are also at the core of The Left Brain Solution, guiding our commitment to changing how the world sees and understands behavioral health.
As we celebrate Black history, let’s remember and honor Annie Turnbo Malone for empowering thousands to achieve independence by creating pathways for economic mobility and pride in Black beauty.
