Story & Lesson Highlights with Sirobe Carstafhnur

We recently had the chance to connect with Sirobe Carstafhnur and have shared our conversation below.

Sirobe, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been finding so much joy in discovering charming towns throughout New Jersey and the Hudson Valley. After living in NYC for 10 years and moving to New Jersey last year, I’ve made it intentional to explore beyond the city’s constant hustle. From cozy spots like Cold Spring, NY, to hidden gems scattered around New Jersey, each town has its own unique character and story. It’s been refreshing to slow down, step away from the fast pace, and soak in new scenery, culture, and experiences.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
SIROBÈ is an all-natural skincare line founded through a unique collaboration involving a visionary CEO Sirobe Carstafhnur and a chemist, her mother. This venture originated from the need for luxury, paraben-free skincare options for skin of color. SIROBÈ’s product range is formulated from the finest botanicals to nourish and enhance skin health from within. Each product combines farm-to-table ingredients, scientifically supported to ensure they are both gentle and effective, delivering visible results without compromising quality. The brand prides itself on meticulously chosen fresh fruits and flowers, each selected for their specific benefits and blended in powerful ratios to address targeted skin concerns effectively.

The roots of SIROBÈ lie in a lifelong journey of self-care, instilled by the founder’s mother and grandmother, who emphasized the importance of internal and external well-being. Raised on fresh produce from a family garden, the founder learned early the importance of fresh, natural ingredients for health and beauty—a principle that is central to SIROBÈ’s philosophy and sets SIROBÈ apart. It has a steadfast commitment to only using natural, high-quality ingredients, avoiding any harsh chemicals or additives that could be detrimental to skin or health.

Additionally, SIROBÈ is committed to inclusivity, striving to ensure that everyone can feel beautiful. This commitment is reflected in their mission to provide fresh, high-quality skincare solutions to those who have traditionally been marginalized in the beauty industry

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The part of me that I’m releasing is the tendency to play small and stay behind the scenes. For years, I poured my energy into creating SIROBÈ, formulating products with my mom, and building a skincare line rooted in nature and wellness — but I often let the brand speak louder than I did. Enrolling in school to become a licensed esthetician this year and opening our spa has pushed me to step fully into my role as a founder, educator, and advocate for natural beauty and inclusive wellness. I’ve realized that sharing my voice, my story, and my expertise is just as important as the products themselves. It’s time to embrace visibility, step confidently into leadership, and release any fear of being “too much.”

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
For a long time, my biggest fear was being seen — really seen. I used to worry about being judged, misunderstood, or defined by my mistakes. But over time, I chose transparency as my power. I’ve shared my 168-pound weight loss journey, been open about my failures, my struggles, and even my heartbreaks this year. What I’ve learned is that vulnerability connects us and frees us. Now, I’m unapologetically me — flaws, lessons, and all. Either rock with me, or roll on.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
I was trained — and still think — like an Architect and Urban Planner, so much of my creative foundation comes from studying visionaries like Louis Kahn. He believed that “a room is not a room without natural daylight” and treated light as a material — something that transforms spaces, creates atmosphere, and reveals beauty. I’ve carried that philosophy into my own life and work, but I’ve replaced “light” with magic.

For a long time, I thought I had to control every detail — every event, every small-batch SIROBÈ drop, every move in business and life. But I’ve learned that when I leave room for magic — for God, the universe, nature, whatever you believe in — the outcomes are always greater than I could have imagined. That shift has taught me to trust the process, surrender control, and allow space for the extraordinary.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What will you regret not doing? 
I’d regret not going all the way. I don’t ever want to wonder what could’ve happened if I had pushed just a little harder. Giving up too early isn’t an option for me — not with SIROBÈ, not with my dreams, not with my life. If I’m going to do it, I’m going to go all in and see it through to the end.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Rafael Clemente for my headshot

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