Our Story

The Birth of Henna Trinidad: A Vision Realized

In 2009, Trinidad & Tobago had limited resources for henna artists locally or regionally. Recognizing this gap, Risa began importing products from reputable US suppliers, establishing a business that was nonexistent in the region. By 2013, she left her full-time job to pursue her passion for henna art full-time.

Establishing Global Trading Relationships

Risa expanded her network, forming strong trading partnerships with countries like India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Morocco, China, and South America. By importing directly from suppliers, she made quality henna products more accessible and affordable for local artists, especially those without online purchasing facilities.

Henna Trinidad at Divali Nagar

In 2010, Risa began trading at the Divali Nagar under the name “Henna Trinidad.” She invited other henna artists to join her booth, providing them exposure, experience, and a platform to grow their clientele.

A Pioneer in Certification and Public Education

In 2012, Risa became the first Internationally Certified Natural Henna Artist in the Caribbean, certified by ICNHA. She used her certification to educate the public on natural henna’s benefits and the dangers of “Black Henna” and commercial cones. Through social media, events, and educational materials, she raised awareness about safe henna practices.

Building a Team of Henna Advocates

Risa established a team of 18 henna artists committed to promoting natural henna and educating the public about its cultural significance. Together, they campaigned against chemical-laden commercial henna cones, even initiating a petition to ban such products.

Training and Empowering Artists

To date, Risa has trained over 200 artists locally and regionally, with organizations like COSTAAT hiring her for her expertise. She offers natural and organic henna products for hair and skin care, becoming a trusted source for Ayurvedic powders and other rare items in the region.

Unity Through “Sip N Henna” Events

Risa launched “Sip N Henna,” a program that unites local henna artists and educates the public about natural henna’s benefits. These events foster networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration within the henna community.

Giving Back with Henna Artists With A Purpose (#HAWAP)

In 2018, Risa initiated #HAWAP to encourage henna artists to give back to their community. The first initiative raised TT$4,325 for the Florence Foundation Wesleyan Children’s Home, supporting the children with donations and a fun-filled day.

Promoting Excellence with Caribbean Beauty Awards

In 2019, Risa collaborated with the Caribbean Beauty Awards to create the “Henna Artist of the Year” category, elevating the recognition of henna artistry. She aims to host the first Henna Conference in Trinidad & Tobago to unite and inspire henna artists globally.

Expanding Across the Caribbean

Risa extended her training platforms to other Caribbean islands, starting with Grenada. Despite setbacks from COVID-19, she continued to train artists through online platforms, ensuring her vision reached beyond borders.

Overcoming Challenges and Building Trust

Risa has faced significant challenges, including lost goods and untrustworthy suppliers. However, her unwavering commitment has made Henna Trinidad the leading supplier of henna products in the Caribbean and a global name.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Through mentorship programs, Risa inspires young people to turn their dreams into reality. She is a wife, mother, entrepreneur, and role model, embodying the spirit of determination and innovation.

A Vision for the Future

Risa’s dedication to henna art has not only elevated the industry in the Caribbean but also brought cultural and economic benefits to Trinidad & Tobago. Her relentless pursuit of excellence continues to inspire artists and entrepreneurs worldwide.

Building Henna Trinidad into a Regional Powerhouse

By 2019, Risa had expanded Henna Trinidad’s influence across the Caribbean, distributing products to Grenada, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Aruba, and the British Virgin Islands. She offered business opportunities for other henna artists by allowing them to become product distributors, helping them establish their own businesses while promoting the art form.

Overcoming Setbacks with Resilience

Despite facing financial losses from unreliable suppliers and transit issues, Risa remained steadfast in her mission. Her perseverance not only kept her business thriving but also reinforced her role as a pillar of support for other henna artists who relied on her for guidance and high-quality supplies.

Championing Cultural Exchange and Economic Growth

Risa opened new trading platforms with countries that previously had little to no trade relations with Trinidad & Tobago. Her efforts generated economic opportunities while showcasing the cultural richness of henna art to the global stage.

Transitioning Through Challenges During the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted many aspects of Risa’s operations, particularly her in-person training programs. However, she adapted by moving her initiatives online, ensuring that artists continued to receive the training and materials they needed to succeed.

Expanding Cultural Awareness

Risa actively promotes the traditions and cultural significance of henna and mehndi, dispelling misconceptions that henna is tied to a single religious or cultural group. Through her outreach, she fosters inclusivity and appreciation for this ancient art form.

Visionary Goals for the Future

With her eyes set on hosting the first-ever Henna Conference in Trinidad & Tobago, Risa plans to bring together artists from around the globe. This event will serve as a platform for cultural exchange, education, and inspiration, further solidifying Trinidad & Tobago’s place in the global henna community.

A Source of Inspiration

Risa continues to inspire others through her story of building something from nothing. Her willingness to mentor aspiring entrepreneurs, share her expertise, and innovate within her field makes her a beacon of hope and a role model for future generations.

Balancing Family and Passion

As a wife and mother of two, Risa demonstrates how dedication and determination can allow one to balance family life with entrepreneurial success. She serves as an example of how pursuing your passion fearlessly can lead to extraordinary achievements.