Meet Da’Naja Ellerby | MUA & Activist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Da’Naja Ellerby and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Da’Naja, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I was raised to never put ceilings upon myself. To dream, to inspire, to live to the fullest. And for me that could not be accomplished by working for someone else. I actually was not allowed to wear makeup until I was 16. When I was finally allowed, I watched 100s of videos and looked at countless brands. As a Afro-Latina woman it was hard in that 2016 wave to find beauty influencers that look like me and the WOC around me. It was always disturbing to me being lighter in complexion, that I was sometimes the darkest shade in a makeup line. The lack of representation and range was the catalyst for what is now The Clinic. There was not many videos on how to do women of darker complexion makeup. A lot of the famous MUAs that were gaining recognition at the time, lacked range on their social media business pages. I wanted to create something that was accessible for everyone no matter race or gender expression.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The reason is in the name itself. I call it The Clinic as it is open to EVERYONE. No matter the gender, shade, or expression. I believe what sets The Clinic apart is our continual effort to push barriers and do more then just the average beat. Every session is catered to you. Each look is catered to the client and their uniqueness. I am most proud of what The Clinic has amounted too from a little 16 year old in her bedroom to full blown brand shoots and magazine interview’s. I made it here today professionally by taking leaps of faith. Without risk there is no reward. It is hard work and long hours. But it never feels like work when you love what you do and you are passionate. I overcame challenges by faith. Sometimes the universe has greater plans for you then what you know. Everything that comes your way is meaningful, you are meant for that hurdle and you will overcome always. Just have faith. The biggest lesson learned is to stop being a perfectionist. To be flexible and be able to move with the punches thrown. I want the world to knw that The Clinic welcomes everyone within their doors.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would take them to this black owned crystal shop in Little 5 Points called The Honey Pot. And then to Mamas Cocina for the best fried chicken tacos. The most exciting place to me is Little 5 Points as there are so many attractions and different types of people to see.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Black Women are the blueprint. I dedicate everything to them. I came from a black woman that raised me to believe in whatever I am passionate about. Without that founding lesson, The Clinic would not be here, I dedicate this to all of my beautiful friends ranging every shade you can think of for letting me practice and continue to perfect my craft. A special shoutout to my mother who continues to push me to be the best version of myself daily. And finally thank you to my village.

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Image Credits
JADEN MCDANIEL SUBGALAXY PHOTOGRAPHY @subgalaxyphotography