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My journey to becoming an entrepreneur | Maya Criss | TEDxYouth@RVA

2,132 views · Published 5 February 2015 · 6:33 · Indexed 5 October 2026

Channel: TEDx Talks · 2015 · Nonprofits & Activism

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Maya Criss is a true example of using what bothers you most to your advantage. Listen to this wonderful young woman describe her triumphant journey.

Fourteen-year-old Maya Criss is a scholar student, teen entrepreneur, and owner of her own company, BaNue, which stands for “Beauty in You.” She has also been the victim of bullying for years.

In 2013, Maya decided to cut off all of her relaxed hair, which had been the source of much of her bullying. Maya decided that, “since they already hate me with straight hair, maybe they can hate me for something that I like to do for myself.’ As she was learning to care for her new hair, Maya, who was 13 years old at the time, then decided to start her own line of hair products that nourishes and maintains natural hair. The concept of BaNue came from Maya’s challenges in school. BaNue was her way of expressing her creativity, to have an outlet, and make some extra money.

As a student of Varina High School Center for Communications, Maya continues to excel in school. She has earned the Henrico County Light of Hope Award, HCPS Community Service Award, is a member of the Bon Secours Nursing Club, is Church Youth Leader, and a Go for the Goal member. In addition, Maya strives to continue to empower her peers and others on how to be happy in your own skin and more importantly just being YOURSELF.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx

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