“The beauty realm has lost a brilliant, radiant star, and Sharon, we are all the better thanks to your contributions and everything you’ve accomplished within the industry,” stated Ron Robinson, founder of BeautyStat and chemist.
Sharon Chuter, the visionary behind the inclusive beauty label Uoma Beauty, has tragically passed away at the age of 38, according to the medical examiner’s records.
Chuter departed on August 14, as reported by the County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner. As of August 25, her passing is still being investigated.
Uoma Beauty shared a heartfelt message about the loss of its founder and former CEO in an Instagram update on Monday, August 25, describing the news as “profoundly sorrowful.”
“Our hearts and sympathies are with her family and loved ones during such a challenging time,” the post expressed.
Chuter established Uoma Beauty in 2019. The brand was present in Ulta Beauty stores nationwide and boasted over 100 products for the face, lips, and eyes, including the remarkable array of 51 foundation shades catering to various skin tones.
Yet, Chuter’s impact extended far beyond makeup.
In June 2020, amidst the nationwide Black Lives Matter demonstrations, Chuter initiated the hashtag #PullUpOrShutUp. This challenge urged corporations to go further than merely posting a black square on social media by disclosing the number of Black employees within their organizations and leadership, as outlined on the Pull Up For Change website. In just one week, over 300 companies released their diversity reports, according to the site.
Now a national movement, Pull Up For Change emphasizes economic justice, corporate accountability, and Black entrepreneurship. In 2021, Pull Up For Change awarded $370,000 in grants to eight Black individuals aspiring to launch their own ventures, as noted on their website.
Transitioning from Uoma
In 2023, Chuter announced her departure as CEO of Uoma Beauty in an Instagram post. The company was subsequently acquired by MacArthur Beauty, BrainTrust Fund, and Settle Funding.
“I’ve dedicated so much energy to others; now it’s my turn to focus on myself and to spend quality time with my favorite person in the world (ME),” Chuter stated in her Instagram update. “I’ve lost touch with myself. I feel beautiful when I’m free, and I’m reclaiming my life and liberating myself to understand the essence of healthy detachment.”
Lawsuit ongoing up until Chuter’s passing
In February, Chuter initiated a lawsuit against MacArthur Beauty, BrainTrust Fund, and Settle Funding. Chuter accused the companies of unlawfully ousting her from the business during her medical leave, “deceitfully and unlawfully” seizing control of the company, per court documents.
Chuter claimed that entire departments and employees were dismissed without her awareness during her medical leave. However, court records indicate that in July 2023, leadership vacated the company, effectively shutting down operations.
Following this, she was reportedly offered a “lowball” price for purchasing her shares, a proposal she declined, according to court filings.
Admirers mourn Chuter
Since the announcement of Chuter’s death, fans of Uoma and her advocacy have shared an outpouring of love across social media.
“What a powerful catalyst for change, equality, and fairness. Beauty has lost a brilliant, shining star, and Sharon, we are all the better for your impact and everything you’ve accomplished in the industry,” Ron Robinson expressed in a recent TikTok video.
“Thank you for all you’ve done for the beauty community,” one Instagram follower commented on Chuter’s last Instagram post from May. “You pulled up for change in so many amazing ways. You are cherished and will be deeply missed.”