Mayor Bowser Launches New Professional Licensing Initiative at the Grand Opening of Yeleen Beauty Makerspace

Mayor Muriel Bowser launched the Fast Beauty initiative at the Yeleen Beauty Makerspace opening in Ward 7, which aims to streamline licensing for beauty professionals. This initiative will reduce the training hour requirements for aspiring cosmetologists and barbers, allowing quicker entry into the industry. Bowser highlighted that this effort is part of her broader Growth Agenda, designed to strengthen the local economy by supporting businesses. The DC Board of Barber and Cosmetology approved the licensing changes, with formal rulemaking expected this fall. Yeleen, a recipient of a $640,000 DC Locally Made Manufacturing grant, provides essential resources for plant-based beauty entrepreneurs.

Rahama Wright, the founder of Yeleen, emphasized her commitment to creating living wage jobs for women in Ghana through her products. Over the past decade, Bowser's administration has invested billions into local businesses, supporting economic growth across the District. The Mayor's FY26 Budget continues this investment strategy, including initiatives like Fast Beauty to reduce red tape and encourage entrepreneurship.