An Inspired Chat with Charlisa Harris of Portland

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Charlisa Harris . Check out our conversation below.

Good morning Charlisa , it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day are all about setting the tone. Before I even get out of bed, I take a few minutes to meditate and center myself — it helps me start with a clear mind and good energy. Once I’m up, I check to see if any deposits came through (entrepreneur habits!), then make sure my son is off to school safely. After that, it’s coffee time — my favorite part — and I sit down to look over my to-do list and start knocking out the day’s priorities.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Charlisa Harris, and I’m the founder and CEO of Mylani Vegan Hair & Body Care — a plant-based beauty brand born from my 27+ years as a hairstylist and salon owner. What makes Mylani special is that it was created out of necessity — I was frustrated with not being able to find clean, effective products that truly nourished textured hair without harmful ingredients.

Every formula is handcrafted with care, blending science, plant power, and luxury to help people fall in love with their natural beauty. What started as small-batch salon creations has now evolved into a full product line available online and in select retail locations.

Right now, I’m especially excited about our “Mylani, My Way” rebrand, which celebrates individuality, family, and legacy. Mylani is actually named after my three children — Mykee, Dalen, and D’yani — and everything I create reflects that deep sense of love, care, and intention.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The part of me that needs to be released is survival mode. As a 17-year-old mother, I spent much of my life making decisions from a place of survival — overworking, constantly preparing for the worst, and always trying to stay one step ahead. That mindset helped me push through some tough seasons, but now I’m learning that it no longer serves me. I’m in a new chapter that calls for peace, trust, and ease — not just surviving, but truly living and thriving.

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I’d say within the last two years. For a long time, I kept the wounds from my childhood and young adult years deeply guarded because I didn’t want to be judged. But I’ve learned that transparency is where true healing begins. I realized my story isn’t as rare or unique as I once thought — and that sharing it can actually be a source of strength. If even one person feels seen, understood, or empowered through what I’ve endured, then that vulnerability becomes purpose.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What important truth do very few people agree with you on?
I’d say my view on being “humble.” I think humility, especially in the Black community, has often been taught from a post-slavery mindset—one that encourages us to stay small so others feel comfortable. To me, real humility isn’t about shrinking yourself; it’s about knowing that there’s a power greater than you and giving thanks to God for your gifts. I just don’t believe we have to downplay who we are or what we’ve accomplished to seem humble. You can honor God and still walk boldly in your purpose.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say that I did the very best I could for everyone around me. That I loved deeply, gave selflessly, and worked hard to overcome every challenge that came my way. I want to be remembered as someone who poured love and purpose into everything I touched — especially into my children and my family. They’re my greatest joy and my proudest legacy.
Oh, and they better say I made them laugh because I’m the funniest person they know.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mylanibeauty.com
• Instagram: Mylanibychadowboxx
• Facebook: Mylani Vegan Hair & Body Care
• Youtube: Mylani’s Mane Journey

Image Credits
Shawntae Sims photography