Raised in a Nepalese refugee camp, Kavya Odari and her family moved to the U.S. when she was three years old, claiming to be targets of discrimination due to their ethnic Nepalese heritage in Bhutan.

 

Born into a family of Nepalese refugees in Bhutan, Odari's childhood was marked by hardship and uncertainty. Her father, faced with discrimination and economic challenges, instilled in her the importance of perseverance and hard work. At just 10 years old, Odari's father began selling bags of rice to make ends meet, navigating the complexities of survival in a hostile environment.

 

Inspired by her father's resilience, Odari embarked on her entrepreneurial journey at the age of 18, driven by a desire to challenge societal norms and empower others like herself. The impetus for founding K.O. Cosmetics stemmed from Odari's personal experiences of being ridiculed and marginalized for her ethnicity and appearance. Determined to redefine beauty standards and celebrate diversity, she set out to create a brand that catered to all skin tones and types.

 

For Odari, cosmetics became more than just a passion; they became a tool for self-expression and empowerment. Her own struggles with finding products that suited her skin tone and type fueled her mission to revolutionize the beauty industry. With K.O. Cosmetics, Odari sought to fill the gap in representation and offer a platform for individuals who had been overlooked and underserved.

 

At the heart of K.O. Cosmetics lies a commitment to inclusivity and advocacy. Through her brand, Odari endeavors to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and promote a message of self-love and acceptance. Each product is infused with symbolism and storytelling, reflecting Odari's heritage and journey of empowerment. From product names inspired by Nepalese culture to descriptions that inspire confidence, K.O. Cosmetics embodies a vision of beauty that is inclusive and empowering.

 

While Odari acknowledges the progress made by some brands in embracing diversity, she believes there is still much work to be done. She advocates for greater representation and inclusivity in the beauty industry, urging major brands to follow suit. By using her platform to champion skin inclusivity, Odari hopes to pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable beauty landscape.

 

Despite her own success, Odari remains humble and grounded, attributing her achievements to the unwavering support of her family, especially her father. His words of encouragement and resilience continue to guide her journey, serving as a constant reminder of the importance of perseverance and determination.

 

As Odari continues to inspire others with her story and her brand, she remains committed to her mission of empowering women and promoting diversity. Through K.O. Cosmetics, she hopes to spark a movement of self-acceptance and celebration, proving that beauty knows no bounds.