Overlay
Business management

Meet the Accelerator entrepreneur honouring the resilience of the Windrush generation

To celebrate Windrush Day, we spoke to Chaye Hall, founder of Official True Beauty.

Can you tell us about Official True Beauty and what inspired it?

Official True Beauty is a hair and skin product brand that embraces neurodivergence, different skin tones, hair types, and individual differences. I created it because I felt there was a gap in the beauty industry — many families, especially those with neurodivergent children, can’t use mainstream products.

Even packaging can be overwhelming, and I wanted to create something that felt comfortable and inclusive. As someone who was diagnosed as neurodivergent later in life, I wanted to make bath time and hair time more enjoyable and meaningful — especially in a world where screens are replacing parent-child bonding.

What is the focus of the brand?

It’s focused on children and their parents. We’re also developing an educational app and a storybook featuring seven diverse characters — children with hearing aids, visual impairments, wheelchairs, and more.

It’s about inclusivity and helping kids understand that differences are normal. For neurodivergent children, sensory experiences like hair care can be overwhelming, so we’re making those moments more fun and less stressful.

Where is the business heading?

We’re moving toward more educational resources and interactive products. Not just shampoo and conditioner, but items kids can play with — making bath time and hair care fun and engaging. It’s about reducing stress and trauma and turning those moments into learning opportunities for both kids and parents.

Was this always your vision, or have you pivoted?

It’s a bit of both. I’ve always wanted to make a lasting difference. Being diagnosed as neurodivergent helped me understand why certain experiences were so difficult. As well as growing the business, I work as a foster carer and a hairdresser, so I’ve seen where the gaps are — and I’m trying to fill them.

How does neurodivergence show up for you?

I’ve been diagnosed with autism and combined ADHD. For me, it’s about sensitivity to lights and loud sounds. I used to mask a lot to fit in, but now I embrace my creativity. It’s helped me think outside the box and come up with ideas I’ve never seen before.

Did you always want to start a business?

When I was 10, I wanted to be a doctor, DJ, and hairdresser, random I know! I became a DJ first, and while I’m not a doctor, creating these products feels close!

I’ve always been around business — my family ran their own — and during lockdown, I started experimenting with products for my siblings. That’s how it all began.

Once you build a team and structure, you can grow. Confidence and consistency are key.

Chaye Hall, founder of Official True Beauty

Is it important to you to be recognised as a Black entrepreneur?

It’s very important, but I don’t want to be defined only by that. I want to be seen as a woman in business making a change. When you label something as Black-owned, it can unintentionally exclude others. I embrace my Caribbean heritage, but my mission is about impact, not just identity.

What does the Windrush generation mean to you?

My great grandad, great uncle and great aunt all came over from Jamaica in the early 1960s to help rebuild Britain after WWII. He and his relatives lived together, worked hard, and built a life here. He bought his first house in Old Trafford for £900.

I can't imagine what it was like, your wife’s not there, your kids aren’t there. But he's doing it to build them all a better life. That resilience and community spirit shaped who I am. They sacrificed so much, and I want to make them proud.

Despite health challenges like meningitis and endometriosis, I keep pushing forward. I want to be a voice people listen to and someone who makes a difference.

How do you feel about being so resilient?

If things come easy, something’s probably off. Resilience is about pushing through, believing in yourself, and knowing that setbacks are just part of the journey.

How important is resilience in starting a business?

It’s everything. You can’t be an entrepreneur without it. You’re doing everything yourself at first — admin, finances, social media. But once you build a team and structure, you can grow. Confidence and consistency are key.

How has the NatWest Accelerator helped your business?

It’s been phenomenal. The connections, guidance, and support are unmatched. I’ve been invited to Parliament and other events because of the exposure I got through the Accelerator. You get out what you put in. If you show up and engage, the opportunities are endless.

How have you found using the new Accelerator app?

It’s great — easy to use, and I love the hot desk booking feature. You can join events in different cities and connect with people everywhere. It’s all there if you want to grow.

Download our NatWest Accelerator app

Whether you’re looking to increase sales, find funding, or sharpen your leadership skills, we have the practical tools, coaching and connections for you. Join the UK’s largest community of entrepreneurs today. 

For the best experience, download the NatWest Accelerator app for your device, otherwise 'Join now' will take you to the web app/browser version.

This material is published by NatWest Group plc (“NatWest Group”), for information purposes only and should not be regarded as providing any specific advice. Recipients should make their own independent evaluation of this information and no action should be taken, solely relying on it. This material should not be reproduced or disclosed without our consent. It is not intended for distribution in any jurisdiction in which this would be prohibited. Whilst this information is believed to be reliable, it has not been independently verified by NatWest Group and NatWest Group makes no representation or warranty (express or implied) of any kind, as regards the accuracy or completeness of this information, nor does it accept any responsibility or liability for any loss or damage arising in any way from any use made of or reliance placed on, this information. Unless otherwise stated, any views, forecasts, or estimates are solely those of NatWest Group, as of this date and are subject to change without notice. Copyright © NatWest Group. All rights reserved.

scroll to top