Michelle Carmona’s journey unfolds in vibrant layers, not just as a first-generation Dominican but as a creative force molded by the intersection of culture, art, and personal growth. Graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from Florida Atlantic University in 2022 marked one chapter of her life, but it was her burgeoning online presence as a licensed nail technician—skyrocketing to over 30k followers on TikTok—that set the stage for her passion in content creation. It’s telling that her ventures have evolved considerably, from a focus on fashion to the more intimate realm of curly hair care, reflecting deeper personal values tied to identity and heritage.

Transitioning her content to embrace natural curls in February 2024, Michelle discovered that her mission went beyond beauty tips; it became an act of cultural reclamation. She faced her own battles against societal norms within the Dominican community, illustrating how those pressures often lead to struggles with self-acceptance. Challenges, of course, were far from a rarity—one moment of ambiguity she often relives is how many times she nearly stepped back amidst low engagement and relentless comparisons to the ever-fluctuating landscape of content creators. Yet, resilience became her lesson and armor, showcasing both her growth and her steadfast commitment to empowering others.

An undeniable highlight from her blossoming career was when one of her hair videos gained recognition on Rihanna’s page—an exhilarating validation that propelled her ambitions even further. As she marries her love for graphic design with her expanding platform, Michelle’s creative vision is rooted in authenticity shaped by experiences. The support from her sister Jessica, God, and her mother remains pivotal. Jessica essentially serves as a lifeline, pushing Michelle towards greater heights, a truth that echoes in her gratitude and reflects her core values. Amidst everything, she continues to embrace each bend in the road—each strand—viewing them not as obstacles, but as integral to her ever-evolving narrative, celebrating the journey itself instead of just the destination.