Tanika Harper is the founder of Harper’s Naturals, an all-natural skincare company she launched in 2014 after being diagnosed with Sjögren’s and deciding to eliminate unnecessary chemicals from the products she used on her skin. A self-taught maker, Tanika learned through research, reading, and plenty of trial and error, eventually developing a complete line of handcrafted skincare products, including body butters, soaps, oils, scrubs, and facial care.

More than 12 years later, Harper’s Naturals has built a loyal customer base and shipped products to customers as far away as Australia. Tanika continues to handcraft select products while partnering with third-party manufacturers as the company grows. A serial entrepreneur and nonprofit leader, she brings firsthand experience with the highs, lows, pivots, and persistence required to build something from the ground up—and keep it going.