We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ashanti Thomas. Check out our conversation below.
Ashanti, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
What I’m most proud of that’s something no one else can see is the resilience that’s carried me through storms and the healing that’s rebuilt me from within. I’ve stitched myself back together piece by piece, stronger than before, even when no one was there to witness it. My strength is quiet, but it is real. My healing is unseen, but it is powerful. I carry both with me every day, proof that I am capable of surviving, growing, and rising beyond anything meant to break me.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Ashanti Thomas and I’m the founder of MXXIICO (Ten Twenty Two Company), a beauty brand I started in 2020. I’ve always loved making people feel good—whether it was painting nails, playing in hair, or sharing my love for beauty products. What started as a passion project during a break from college has now grown into my lifestyle and career.
MXXIICO is more than just a beauty brand—it’s about confidence, loyalty, and self-expression. I offer lip gloss, lashes, raw hair extensions, and other beauty essentials, as well as lash and nail services. What makes MXXIICO special is that it’s built on my personal story of resilience, growth, and the belief that beauty is an experience, not just a product.
Right now, I’m focused on expanding my brand and creating new ways to “make you feel like the boss you are.” For me, MXXIICO isn’t just business—it’s a reflection of my journey and the legacy I’m building.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
I released the doubt that once whispered I wasn’t enough, and the fear that held me back from stepping fully into my power. They served their purpose, teaching me lessons I needed to grow, but their time has passed. I honor the strength I gained from facing them, and now I let them go. I am choosing courage over hesitation, faith over worry, and action over inaction. I trust myself, my journey, and the path that lies ahead. With each step, I grow stronger, bolder, and more aligned with who I am meant to be. The old me has made room for the new me—a me that shines unapologetically, moves fearlessly, and embraces every possibility that life offers.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There have definitely been moments when I almost gave up on my business journey. Starting MXXIICO was scary—investing in my dream before seeing revenue, juggling responsibilities, and trying to grow while the world was changing. In 2023, I fought through postpartum depression, which made even the smallest tasks feel impossible. Then in 2024, losing my brother hit me so hard that I questioned everything, including my ability to keep going.
But even in those darkest moments, I reminded myself why I started. I remembered the vision I had for helping people feel confident and empowered, the small victories along the way—the messages from customers, the products I launched, the skills I learned. Those reminders kept me moving forward.
Looking back, I see that the struggle taught me resilience, perseverance, and the importance of trusting myself. Even when life feels unbearable, I’ve learned that growth and progress come from choosing to keep going, step by step. Not only did I push to keep going, I rebranded.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
“Your brand is just your logo or products.” MXXIICO is proof that a brand is an experience. It’s the energy, the passion, and the confidence we give our customers—not just the items we sell or our logo.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What will you regret not doing?
I would regret not fully pursuing my dreams and passions, especially building MXXIICO into something meaningful. I’d regret not taking the risks, not trusting myself, or holding back out of fear or doubt. I’d regret not expressing my creativity, not helping others feel confident and empowered, and not leaving a mark that reflects who I truly am.
Ultimately, the biggest regret would be not showing up for myself, not giving my all to the life and legacy I want to create.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.mxxiico.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mxxiico?igsh=MW5sajYyNG55aTVicw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://Www.facebook.com/mxxiicompany
