Yelitsa Jean-Charles

Yelitsa Jean-Charles is the CEO and Founder of Healthy Roots Dolls, a company born out of her personal mission to ensure that every child sees themselves represented in their toys. Having faced the lack of diversity in dolls during her own childhood, Yelitsa embarked on a journey to create a positive impact.

With a background in Illustration and Gender, Race & Sexuality, Yelitsa's dedication to her cause led her to receive grants from the Brown University Social Innovation Fellowship and support from various entrepreneurial programs such as RISD E'Ship Program, Masschallenge Accelerator program, and Backstage Accelerator program in Detroit.

Yelitsa's achievements include winning competitions like the Startup Stampede, New Voices Fund Pitch competition, and being recognized as Forbes 30 under 30. Her innovative approach and commitment to diversity in the toy industry have garnered her a strong following and notable investments to further her mission.

Through Healthy Roots Dolls, Yelitsa aims to empower children, especially young girls, to embrace their identity and feel proud of their heritage, regardless of societal beauty standards. Her work has been widely recognized and continues to make a significant impact on promoting inclusivity and self-love.