Stephane Jean-Baptiste, KLN ’06, first waded into entrepreneurship when he launched his own graphic design company following his graduation from Temple. Not unfolding the way he had hoped, he found himself calling on the grit and determination that Temple instills in all its students and alumni. He bounced back by co-founding several nonprofits with his partner, Yve-Car Momperousse, who later became his collaborator in Kreyol Essence, a hair care company. Their journey then culminated in an appearance on ABC’s Shark Tank in 2019. While they didn’t secure an investment from the sharks, Kreyol Essence has since flourished, with products now available in Ulta Beauty stores nationwide. Hoping to see students persevere the same way that he did, Stephane recently launched a scholarship at Klein College of Media and Communication earlier this summer.

The success proved that while one door may have closed for Stephane earlier, another had clearly opened—and widened. Stephane further cemented his connection to Temple after the launch of Made for More, the university's new scholarship initiative. It was important for him to give back, creating a new scholarship for students at the Klein College of Media and Communication this past June, hoping to inspire and assist students who have aspirations just like he did nearly 20 years ago.

In our interview below, Stephane shares insights into his beginnings at Temple and how his humility, passion and determination fueled his dreams, and allowed him to dive even deeper into representing his Haitian American identity.

You started in theater, then moved to communications. What led you to graduate with a communications degree, and how did that transition into your career?

As I turned 40, I found myself reflecting on my formative years at Temple. Those years laid the groundwork for my future endeavors. Few schools allow students at 18 or 19 to manage budgets or plan events. I realized those experiences were vital for my career. I switched to communications because I wanted a broader range of experiences. I took classes in advertising and public relations, which opened my eyes to the world of mass communications. After graduating, I founded my first company, Nouveau Concepts, a graphic design agency. Skills I learned at Temple—like budgeting and event planning—proved invaluable.

Could you share more about your Klein scholarship and its goals? 

The scholarship was inspired by the idea of finding diamonds in the rough. I want to support students who have potential but need mentorship or financial assistance. I remember struggling to afford textbooks and juggling multiple jobs to make ends meet during my time at Temple. I believe that while education provides tools, students also need encouragement and resources to chase their dreams. The scholarship aims to help students focus on their education and leadership opportunities without being overwhelmed by financial burdens. 

Let’s talk about Shark Tank. When did that fit into your journey? Was that before or after you launched Kreoyl in 2014? 

Shark Tank came in 2019, five years after we launched Kreoyl. The idea for the business emerged in 2009 while I was still in Philly. My partner and I started a couple of nonprofits in the area, and we were passionate about creating a product that highlighted Haitian black castor oil. After a challenging experience with hair damage, we realized there was a market for natural hair care products made with that oil. By the time we auditioned for Shark Tank, we had already built a supply chain in Haiti and faced various challenges, including political instability. We applied to the show to celebrate our journey and potentially gain partnerships to help us grow. 

Now that it’s been ten years since your launch and five since Shark Tank, how do you see the future of your company? 

Reflecting on the past decade, I’ve realized how romanticized the startup world can be. Not every company becomes a unicorn in five years. My goal is to build a sustainable business rather than chase quick success. Over the last two years, I’ve managed a team of young individuals from the Little Haiti neighborhood in Miami, helping them grow into leadership roles. I strive to create a nurturing environment for my team, drawing from my experiences at Temple. Looking ahead, I want to invest in our people and share the story of Haiti, inspiring young Haitian Americans about what’s possible. My Temple connections continue to motivate me, especially with this scholarship, and I aim to foster that community spirit as I grow. 

How has the Temple alumni connection been for you since graduating? 

It’s been fantastic. My first clients at Newville Concepts were Temple alumni, including the university itself. Many projects I worked on stemmed from connections I made there. For example, Jada Pinkett Smith reviewed one of our products, all thanks to a connection from Temple. I still reach out to fellow alumni on LinkedIn for support in branding, marketing and fundraising. Although I haven’t been able to participate in events lately, I want to reconnect and give back to the community that helped me. 

What advice do you have for students and young entrepreneurs trying to break into business?

Say yes! Embrace opportunities and possibilities. Get involved, whether it's attending events or social gatherings. Those experiences can open doors to new friendships and professional connections. College is the perfect time to explore who you are and what you want to achieve. Don't limit yourself with negative beliefs or concerns about money. Use your time wisely, network and be open to new experiences. Saying yes can lead to incredible opportunities you never expected.

Temple alumni bravely pursue their biggest ideas and transform them into Temple Made businesses that defy expectations and shake up the rules of the game. To learn more about Temple Made businesses or list your own business, visit the Alumni-Owned Business Directory today!