Annie Turnbo Malone: Innovator and Educator

When we think of pioneers in Black hair care, Madam C.J. Walker often comes to mind. However, before Walker, there was a remarkable woman named Annie Turnbo Malone, whose contributions laid the groundwork for the entire industry. Born in 1869 in Metropolis, Illinois, Malone was an innovative entrepreneur and a dedicated educator who changed the lives of countless Black women in America.

Malone developed her passion for hair care early on, experimenting with botanical ingredients to create products that catered specifically to the needs of Black hair. Her groundbreaking creations were marketed under the brand name "Poro," which became synonymous with quality and effectiveness. Poro products were among the first to offer Black women viable solutions for hair care, helping to foster a sense of pride and beauty in their natural hair.

But Malone's vision extended far beyond just selling hair care products. Understanding the power of education and financial independence, she founded Poro College in St. Louis in 1918. Poro College was a first-of-its-kind institution that trained women not only in the art of hair styling but also in business and marketing skills. This holistic approach to beauty and education equipped Black women with the tools they needed to succeed in a world rife with racial and gender discrimination.

Poro College was more than a school; it was a community center, a cultural hub, and a safe space for Black women to learn and grow. Malone's college offered a comprehensive curriculum that emphasized professionalism and self-reliance, empowering women to become entrepreneurs in their own right. This initiative provided economic opportunities at a time when such prospects were scarce for Black women.

Annie Turnbo Malone's influence extended beyond her products and educational programs. She was a philanthropist who generously supported various charitable organizations and causes within the Black community. Her commitment to uplifting others was evident in her work and her life's mission.

Despite her monumental contributions, Annie Turnbo Malone's story is often overshadowed by others in history. Yet, her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched and the industry she helped shape. She was a visionary who understood the transformative power of beauty, education, and entrepreneurship, paving the way for future generations of Black women to thrive.

Annie Turnbo Malone's life is a testament to the impact that one determined, innovative, and compassionate individual can have. Her story is an inspiration to all who strive to break barriers and empower others through knowledge and opportunity.

Annie Turnbo Malone died of a stroke on May 10, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois. She was 87. By the time of her death, Malone had lost her national visibility and most of her money. Having no children, her estate, valued at $100,000, was left to her nieces and nephews.