Beyoncé’s BeyGood charity has awarded the first round of students with the Cécred scholarship, providing financial support to cosmetology students and salon owners in need. 

According to USA Today back in April Bey announced the first round of winners for the $500,000 Cécred X BeyGood fund, with 25 students across five different cosmetology schools receiving a $10,000 grant or scholarship, and 25 qualifying salon business owners.

Jacora Smart, one of the scholarship recipients, expresses her excitement and gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “They wanted to know about our financial need, and also about what community means to us when it comes to the beauty industry. And basically, (they wanted) to see how our values align with Cecréd,” says Smart.

The scholarship will help Smart pursue her dream of becoming a licensed master cosmetologist and eventually open a beauty supply store catering to Black individuals.  Beyoncé’s Cécred brand, launched in February, aims to celebrate and nurture hair diversity, receiving praise from fans and beauty brands alike.