Our values & philosophy

At Native Kanvas, we create natural, luxurious essentials designed for textured hair and melanated skin—crafted with intention, integrity, and the best nature has to offer.

We are deeply committed to clean beauty that respects both your body and the planet. Our gentle, high-performance formulas are carefully made with environmentally friendly ingredients, reducing the reliance on harsh chemicals like parabens, which are commonly found in African American skin and hair care.

Every product is thoughtfully developed to meet the highest standards of purity and performance:

• Vegan – Plant-powered formulations with no animal byproducts.

• Sulfate-Free – Gentle cleansing without stripping natural moisture.

• Toxin-Free – Free from harmful chemicals and irritants.

• Paraben-Free – No unnecessary preservatives that could disrupt skin health.

• Cruelty-Free – Never tested on animals, because kindness matters.

• Responsibly Sourced – Ethical sourcing for a sustainable future.

At Native Kanvas, we don’t just create skincare and haircare—we create a movement that empowers you to love the skin you’re in.

Hello there,

My name is Angel Okumu, and I am the founder of Native Kanvas. Born and raised in Uganda, East Africa, I moved to the United States in September 2007 in pursuit of new opportunities. Native Kanvas is deeply personal to me—it was born from one of the most challenging times in my life but now stands as a testament to resilience, courage, and hope.

In 2009, while experiencing homelessness in Boston, MA, I faced a profound struggle—not only with survival but with the loss of my hair due to extreme stress, harsh winter conditions, limited access to hygiene, and the lack of care products for textured, natural hair like mine. That difficult period opened my eyes to a glaring gap in the beauty industry: chemical-free, high-quality hair care for textured hair was nearly impossible to find in major retail stores.

That realization ignited a vision. I dedicated myself to years of intensive research to create what I wished had existed. Three years later, Native Kanvas was born—a brand committed to delivering exceptional, clean, and nourishing skin & textured-hair care essentials for the entire family.

From day one, I have been relentless in my mission to craft the most original, pure, and effective formulas in the beauty industry. I personally source the highest-quality raw materials, ensuring that every product embodies luxury, sustainability, and guilt-free indulgence.

Now, I proudly present to you Native Kanvas—where nature meets self-care, and every product is made with love & intention.

A Story Of Humble Beginnings