In 2017, Diva by Cindy launched its very first retail store and only a year later the vending machine concept came into full effect for Black travelers and their desires for Black-owned hair care.
Diva by Cindy products and vending machines have been highly praised and featured extensively nationally and internationally, including a presence in Black Enterprise magazine, and in Accra, Ghana.
The Black-owned hair care vending machine made its first appearance at BWI’s Concourse D in 2019. The vending machine sells full size and travel-size products from the Diva by Cindy line, including some of the brand’s most popular products, such as the ‘Stimulating Shampoo’ and the ‘Sulfate free shampoo’.
Diva by Cindy is the first natural haircare brand to launch a vending machine. Since launching vending machines in Baltimore Washington International airport and Arundel Mills Mall, the company is set out to expand and make natural hair care accessible to all.
In early 2020, a brand-new Diva by Cindy vending machine opened and as of Spring 2021, a Diva by Cindy vending machine can be found in Fort Belvoir.
Former registered Nurse and veteran salon owner, Cindy Tawaiah, is creator behind Diva by Cindy hair care brand as well as the founder of Diva Day Spa and Healing Center, which opened in Maryland, Baltimore. Combining her love for medicine and healing with her knowledge of ways to support the local community, the Diva by Cindy franchise was born.
As highlighted on the website, this natural Black-owned hair care range aims to protect Black women from harsh chemicals as well as uplift them and their communities. The proceeds from the sale of hair products are used to support victims of domestic violence. The “Diva Project” provides more information about the program.
The Black-owned spa and healing center has made waves of its own in the community, and the vending machines have provided Black travelers with some relief during their travels from Baltimore airport.
