Watch: How This Founder Built a Multimillion-Dollar Brand Serving People of Color

Tristan Walker is “cautiously optimistic” that in the coming months and years, more brands will acknowledge their customers’ and employees’ concerns about diversity and inclusion. He points out, though, that they must also lead by example, and work to ensure lasting change. At his company, he says, “We do the work.” 

Founded in 2013 after Walker struggled to find effective shaving products that didn’t irritate his skin, Walker & Company Brands started with a men’s shaving line called Bevel, and now offers a range of beauty and grooming products designed for people of color. The company was acquired by Procter & Gamble in 2018 for an undisclosed amount, estimated at between $20 million and $40 million. Walker, the founder and CEO, spoke with Inc. editor-at-large Tom Foster in an Inc. webinar, “Your Next Move: Diversifying Teams to Drive Passions and Profits,” on Wednesday. Watch the clips below for Walker’s advice on committing to your values, going where your customers are, and maintaining autonomy after a sale.

On why pledging to push for social change isn’t enough:

On raising capital and how it can be a blessing and a curse:

On the story behind his company’s deal with Procter & Gamble:

On the importance of committing to the decision to sell:

On why leaving Silicon Valley was the right choice for his company:

On finding personal motivation and building a company on your own terms: