We had the good fortune of connecting with Deaujanae Curry and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Deaujanae, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I grew up on the eastside of Saint Paul, Minnesota, in a house full of family—my grandma, mom, aunties, uncles, grandpa, and cousins. Being the oldest, I had a lot of responsibility from a young age, always looking out for everyone. Even now, at 27, I still find myself supporting my family, from my younger cousins to my older cousins and uncles and aunties.
Growing up was tough, and I struggled with depression early on. I always knew I wanted more out of life, though. I didn’t have any role models—just examples of what I didn’t want to become. After finally moving out of my mom’s house, I started to find my own way and develop my own style. I had “friends” and people who claimed they wanted to help me, but their actions made me want to succeed on my own even more. And that’s exactly what I did.
Through exhaustion, hunger, sadness, and depression, I lifted myself up. With no handouts, just faith and trust in God, I made it. Today, I can look back and say that I came from nothing, but I built something. Even when some of my own family didn’t believe in me, I made it into the person I am today.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m an eyelash tech, but I like to call myself an eyelash artist. If it involves lashes, I’m all in. I do lash extensions, removals, and even design lashes that look like extensions. I specialize in cluster lashes and even create custom sets. What sets me apart is that I offer affordable options for my clients: if full extensions aren’t in the budget, I’ve got clusters, and for those with sensitive eyes, I offer extension strips that look just as real. I also provide eyelash serums to help grow and strengthen natural lashes.
How did I get here? Faith and God. I’ve always stayed true to myself, never shading others, even fellow lash techs. I knew my time would come. I’m kind, down-to-earth, and supportive, which is why I call myself an “unlicensed therapist”—my clients come to me for lashes and advice. I’m always here to listen.
One key lesson I’ve learned is to keep God first and never give up, even during slow times. I used to stress when things slowed down and others were fully booked. But I reminded myself that my time would come, and it always did—sometimes, I’d be booked for weeks straight and wishing for a break! Now, I use those slow periods to make new lashes, work on my business, or just take time for myself. Slow days aren’t a failure; they’re a chance to regroup and grow.
MelaninLashess was born from my love for the skin I’m in. I didn’t always feel confident in my own beauty until I embraced what I have and how rich I am in my story and my journey. I came from nothing, from watching those around me struggle, to seeing people hustle while I had nothing. But God showed me my path, and I found joy in lashes. No matter how tough things got, lashes made everything better. Becoming a lash tech transformed not only my look but my entire life.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My biggest supporters have always been my grandma and my Auntie Peaches—may they both rest in peace. They’re my angels watching over me. Next is my boyfriend, Zel. He’s been my rock, always ready to help and invest in whatever I need. I couldn’t have made it this far without his love and support.
My mom has been there since day one, making me business cards and letting me practice on her, even when it took hours. She always told me how proud she was. And of course, I can’t forget the amazing girls who have helped me get here—my clients. They pushed me to do more, to learn more, and to keep reaching for the sky. I do all of this for them.
Website: https://melaninlashess22.square.site/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rawasslashtech?igsh=MTcxN2ZkOG9wNzZvYw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/A6Z5Nyt2iS8npqUC/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Other: https://melaninlashess.glossgenius.com/
Image Credits
Tessa, Makayla , CeeCee