The global web-hosting company GoDaddy recently launched a new edition of its digital series Icons, and this time, it’s showcasing Cincinnati’s small business owners. Six entrepreneurs from a wide array of industries and practices are featured in the series, which kicked off on July 23.

Hosted by beauty expert and Cincinnati resident Anna Mae Groves, founder of the lifestyle website AnnaMaeGroves.com, the show chronicles the experiences of business owners who are flourishing in the Queen City.

Rebecca Gibson, owner of Empire Beauty Bar, says that when GoDaddy contacted her, it was clear that the company was inspired by her story.
After two-decades in healthcare, Gibson’s goals center on helping others to feel beautiful and to succeed in their careers.
“I like to change the stereotype that a lot of African American women have, as far as not helping other people to succeed,” she notes. “I can kind of plant some seeds around the city and hopefully help people realize that at some point, we need other people to be great.”
In addition to running the salon with a staff of experienced cosmetologists and braiders, Gibson also serves as the facilitator of the Empire Ohio braid license course. In connection with the Ohio Board of Cosmetology, she has offered courses in Cincinnati, Columbus, and Dayton, licensing more than 100 braiders in the last two years.