On August 14, 2025, the beauty world was shaken by the tragic news that Sharon Chuter, the 38-year-old founder of Uoma Beauty, was found dead on a patio in Los Angeles. According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, her death is still under investigation, and no official cause has been released. The sudden loss of a woman widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in modern beauty has left the industry and her supporters reeling.
While the circumstances of her passing remain unclear, what is undeniable is the profound impact she made during her life, a legacy of bold innovation, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to diversity.
Redefining Beauty: The Birth of Uoma
Sharon Chuter was more than a beauty entrepreneur; she was a cultural architect. In 2019, she launched Uoma Beauty, a brand that instantly became synonymous with inclusivity and empowerment. The name “Uoma,” inspired by the Igbo word oma meaning “beautiful,” reflected her Nigerian heritage and her vision for a brand that celebrated all identities.
Uoma debuted with an impressive 108 products, including the groundbreaking Say What?! Foundation, which offered 51 shades in six different formulas, a level of customisation and inclusivity rarely seen in the industry at the time. Her products didn’t just cater to all skin tones; they celebrated individuality through vibrant colours, bold packaging, and names that honored Black cultural icons like Diana Ross and Nina Simone.
Retailers such as Ulta Beauty, Selfridges, and Nordstrom embraced the brand, while beauty enthusiasts and influencers praised it for setting new standards of representation.
Beyond Beauty: An Activist at Heart
Chuter’s influence extended far beyond product innovation. She became a leading activist for racial equity in the beauty industry:
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Pull Up For Change (2020): During the global reckoning on racial injustice, Chuter launched this movement to hold brands accountable for their diversity claims. The accompanying hashtag #PullUpOrShutUp challenged companies to publicly disclose the percentage of Black employees in leadership positions. Major beauty brands, from e.l.f. to Glossier, responded, making this one of the most impactful transparency initiatives in the industry.
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Make It BLACK (2021): Chuter took activism further by redefining the cultural meaning of the word “Black.” Through limited-edition product packaging and brand collaborations, she raised funds to support Black-owned businesses, turning language reclamation into real economic empowerment.
Her initiatives sparked uncomfortable but necessary conversations and shifted diversity from marketing rhetoric to measurable action.
The Struggles Behind the Scenes
Despite her success, Chuter faced significant personal and professional challenges. In May 2023, she stepped down as CEO of Uoma Beauty after experiencing severe burnout and a major health scare that led to hospitalization. While she hoped for a sabbatical, the brand soon entered financial turmoil. Its assets were sold in December 2023, and in 2025, Chuter filed a lawsuit alleging the sale was fraudulent and unauthorised, claiming she was pushed out while on medical leave. The case remains unresolved.
A Legacy That Lives On
Though her life ended tragically and far too soon, Sharon Chuter leaves behind a legacy that will continue to shape the beauty world for decades. She proved that inclusivity isn’t a trend, it’s a responsibility, and that brands can be vehicles for social justice, cultural pride, and economic empowerment.
In the wake of her passing, tributes have poured in from industry leaders, influencers, and fans, all echoing the same sentiment: Chuter was fearless, authentic, and revolutionary.
Rest in peace, Sharon Chuter, a trailblazer whose light will never dim.
