For Women to Know 2026, we turn our focus to Black women beauty founders who are also mothers—visionaries navigating two of life’s most demanding and defining roles. At the heart of both is a shared ethos: the drive not only to persevere, but to excel. Each, on its own, is all-encompassing; together, they require an extraordinary level of intention, resilience, and clarity of purpose. This year, we are honored to step inside the worlds of Danessa Myricks, Janell Stephens, and Ashunta Sheriff—women who have built enduring brands while remaining deeply rooted in family. Through candid reflection, they share what it truly takes to build, sustain, and lead without losing sight of what matters most. Thank you for reading—and for witnessing their journeys with us. Social Credits Talent: @danessamyricks @ashuntasheriff @janell_stephens Photographer: @jdthecombo Roundtable Moderator & Cover Story: Danielle James (@theislandiva) Profile Writer: @keyairakelly SVP of Content: @alliemcgev VP of Content: @k_westsavali VP of Video: @tanyahofflermoore Executive Producer: @cliche______ Editorial Director: @shamika_sanders Senior Editorial Project Manager: @krystalh Managing Editor MadameNoire: @thedanicastar Social, HelloBeautiful: @charmasona Social, MadameNoire: @bytiffanysmith Photo Assistant: @orensiddo BTS Video: @the_constantine_lens @24k_prod Set Design: @gardenrebound Makeup: @shameikasimmons Hair: @moye1980 Stylist: Roger McKenzie @rogeramckenzie Assistant Stylist: Liana Vine @mslianavine Creative Producer: @jbthegawd Production Assistant @iyanamoore Production Company: @theoraclemedia