Milaya Phillip

Milaya Phillip is a rising junior at Spelman College, majoring in Chemistry with a concentration in Cosmetic Science. She is passionate about creating innovative, natural beauty products that address the unique needs of underrepresented communities. Milaya is actively involved in several extracurricular activities. She is president of Afrekete, Spelman’s first and only LGBTQ+ organization. In this role, she provides mentorship and support to LGBTQ+ students in Atlanta, both in college and K-12. Recently, she joined the new Cosmetic Science Club at Spelman, Spelman’s C100, and Spelman’s Future Business Leaders Organization.

Milaya’s leadership extends beyond campus as she balances full-time studies with working for a small business, where she gains practical experience in the retail industry. Her determination is fueled by personal challenges, including financial responsibilities for her education and family. Despite these obstacles, Milaya remains committed to her goals, driven by her desire to make a lasting impact in cosmetic science. She plans to further her studies in color cosmetic chemistry and launch her own cosmetic business, creating a platform for underrepresented entrepreneurs in the industry.