Bronx native Chantel Francis is transforming campus life for Black college students. Her company, Hello Beauty, brings culturally relevant products directly to university campuses through vending machines. The initiative addresses a gap she experienced firsthand as a student at SUNY Brockport.
Francis launched her first vending machine in January 2025 after winning a campus pitch competition. By August 2025, Hello Beauty expanded to SUNY Morrisville. She now aims to reach all 62 campuses within the SUNY network.
Building a Business from Personal Experience
The entrepreneur identified a critical need while earning her bachelor’s degree at SUNY Brockport in 2024. Campus stores lacked products designed for Black students’ hair and skin needs. “As a Black woman, it wasn’t just inconvenient, it was isolating,” Francis told Canvas Rebel.
The absence of textured hair products and melanin-friendly skincare affected her confidence. She noticed other students faced the same challenge. Someone needed to create a solution, and Francis decided to be that person.
Hello Beauty Machines Offer More Than Convenience
Each vending machine stocks carefully selected items for Black students. Products include edge control, bonnets, lashes, setting spray, lip gloss, durags, and loc-gel. Emergency self-care kits are also available for students in need.
“We curate our inventory with intention,” Francis explained. These products rarely appear in typical campus stores. However, Black communities use them daily. Hello Beauty places machines where students already spend their time.
Representation Drives the Mission Forward
Francis emphasizes that Hello Beauty serves a deeper purpose beyond retail. The brand focuses on helping students feel seen and celebrated. Representation remains at the core of every business decision.
“We’re not just a vending company, we are a representation-driven brand,” she stated. The machines provide access to products that affirm students’ identities. This approach creates a sense of belonging on campus.
Overcoming Years of Rejection and Financial Struggles
The path to success included two years of setbacks. Campus administrators initially showed no interest in Francis’s proposal. She faced rejection after rejection during the development phase.
Financial constraints nearly derailed her dream entirely. Francis worked multiple jobs and took out loans to fund the project. Some days, giving up seemed like the only option.
Resilience Transformed Obstacles Into Opportunities
Francis reminded herself why she started during difficult moments. She wanted to create something meaningful for underserved students. That purpose kept her moving forward through every setback.
“Entrepreneurship isn’t a straight line—it’s full of setbacks, patience, sacrifice, and faith,” she reflected. Each rejection became a stepping stone toward eventual success. Looking back, every challenge prepared her for growth.
Expansion Plans Target 62 SUNY Locations
Hello Beauty currently operates at two SUNY campuses. Francis plans strategic expansion across the entire university system. The goal is to reach every SUNY location in New York.
This expansion will bring representation to thousands of Black students. Each new machine increases access to culturally relevant products. Francis’s vision continues to grow alongside her business.
Creating Confidence Through Accessibility
The vending machines impact more than just convenience. Students gain access to products that help them present themselves confidently. This accessibility affects how they show up in classes and social events.
Francis understands the connection between representation and self-esteem. When students find products made for them, they feel valued. Hello Beauty bridges the gap between retail offerings and community needs.
