Introducing Innové Partners: The Beauty of Collaboration

Last week, my longtime friend and collaborator, Leslie Roberson , and I unveiled our new venture: Innove Partners , a Brand Intelligence Holding Company that will encompass our respective brands, BrainTrust Founders Studio and LumiNicole Beauty , along with additional entities.

In the midst of our announcement, someone remarked, “I didn’t know you two were connected,” which sparked me to reflect on the behind-the-scenes work that goes into nurturing relationships and expanding your brain trust of trusted colleagues and allies. These connections are often not discussed publicly—not due to a lack of desire, but because the focus is on the work itself. The behind-the-scenes efforts are what truly drive our success.

Interestingly, I can’t pinpoint the moment I met Leslie; it feels as if she has always been part of my journey. We’ve been “sisterprenistas” for quite some time, sharing experiences, uplifting one another, and recognizing the deep interconnectivity of our organizations. Leslie established the Black Beauty Collective three years ago, built on the same foundational principles of empowering founders through retail and mentorship.

During my book tour for The Beauty of Success: Start, Grow and Accelerate Your Brand, Leslie was one of the first to purchase copies and promote them at Black Beauty Collective. She welcomed the opportunity with open arms, exemplifying the spirit of hospitality. Collaboration, determination and tenacity have been the hallmark of our relationship, culminating in our decision to join forces to further our missions of uplifting and inspiring founders as they navigate their entrepreneurial journeys.

After numerous discussions, some setbacks, and late nights filled with strategizing—along with impromptu flights to Chicago, Florida, and Vegas—we realized that our combined strength opens up greater possibilities for achieving not just our collective goal but the goal of so many founders striving for the next level of business success.

What I’ve come to deeply value is that the essence of collaboration lies in the sharing of expertise, experience, and the openness to look beyond personal agendas. This approach is essential for overcoming challenges and staying resilient in the face of adversity.

It’s a powerful experience to stand united, undeterred by the storms that may surround us.

I have three requests for you:

1. If you are a founder in the beauty, wellness, or health sectors, I invite you to become a part of BrainTrust Founders Studio for community, mentorship, education and capital: GET YOUR LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP TODAY. ????

2. If you represent a brand seeking to forge meaningful connections, showcase your value to support our business reach out to us. Access to opportunities, tools, and essential resources is vital for our community. ????

3. Support our founders by shopping their brands—whether online, in stores, or anywhere you can. SHOP, spread the word and encourage others to do the same. ???

Visit Innové Partners and our portfolio, which includes BrainTrust Founders Studio, LumiNicole Beauty, and the soon-to-launch LN Fulfillment.

How are you fostering collaboration this year? ????????

CarpeDiem!