Kim Leonard is the creator of “En vie naturals” a line of natural organic skincare products for women and men of ethnic skin types. Her products are made with all natural oats, nuts, and botanical extracts. At the market, Kim opens a jar of “Pep-n-your step” foot soak for me to smell. I stick my nose into a bouquet of peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender and menthol fragrances. Instant aromatherapy! Kim beams a happy healthy smile, and explains that “This foot soak is good for hardworking men and women, who are on their feet all day. 10 minutes in warm water will allow the natural agents to act and soften and relax the feet”. Kim is a vegetarian, and prides herself on not using any animal products, parabens, or toxins in her line. She is also a Mission local from all her life. Three years ago Kim began making skincare products for friends and family as a pastime. She was a coffee shop manager back then, but like many folk, she lost her job in the past few years. Not one to mope around, she quickly enrolled in the Women’s Initiative Program to gain the skills to make her boutique dream come true. She graduated in 2009, and her business is up and running. “Everything that you see here, I make with my own two hands!” She waves jazz hands in the air, and gives me another stellar Kim smile. She invites you to pass by her stall and check out her facial cleansers and scrubs as well!
by Adriana Camarena
