Sharon Chuter’s passing at the young age of 38 has shaken the beauty industry. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner reported that she was found on August 14, and the official cause of her death is currently listed as “deferred,” indicating that further investigations are ongoing. Chuter’s unexpected death has left a profound impact on her peers, activists, and fans alike, as she was a dynamic force within the community.
Chuter was more than just an entrepreneur; she was a powerful advocate for change. In 2019, she introduced UOMA Beauty, a brand that quickly transformed the cosmetics industry with its bold messages and an inclusive foundation range featuring over 50 shades. The name UOMA, which translates to “beautiful” in Igbo, represents bold and unapologetic beauty. Within a short time, her products were available at major retailers such as Ulta in the United States and Selfridges in the United Kingdom, proving that inclusivity not only matters but also thrives in the marketplace.
Yet, Chuter’s influence went beyond her brand. Following the tragic murder of George Floyd in 2020, she spearheaded one of the most significant movements for corporate accountability that year. Her initiative, Pull Up for Change, challenged major brands to disclose the number of Black individuals in their leadership roles. It was a bold and straightforward demand that compelled companies to take action, earning her acknowledgment as a trailblazer for creating opportunities for Black professionals in spaces where they had traditionally been overlooked.
However, her path was not without its own challenges. In recent years, her relationship with UOMA Beauty became mired in legal disputes. After the brand’s assets were acquired in 2023, she asserted that she was wrongfully ousted while on medical leave. Earlier this year, she took legal action against MacArthur Beauty, BrainTrust, and Settle Funding, alleging that the sale of her brand was unauthorized and undervalued. Amid these struggles, she remained steadfast in her advocacy for fairness and transparency.
Many have taken to social media to pay tribute to Chuter. Fans, fellow entrepreneurs, and beauty insiders remember her as a revolutionary figure who refused to conform to an industry that often sought to sideline Black women.
Recognized as one of WWD’s 50 Most Powerful Women, she certainly lived up to that recognition. More than just a brand founder, she was a visionary who expanded the definition of beauty and leadership. Her influence, presence, and mission will resonate far beyond her time in the industry.
For now, the circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear. However, Sharon Chuter made a lasting impact, reshaping the beauty industry, influencing culture, and demonstrating that Black women are not only meant to be included but can also take the reins.
