Community Highlights: Meet Chantal Taylor of The Legacy Magazine MS

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chantal Taylor.

Hi Chantal, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started my journey in Detroit, Michigan, born into a life of challenges that shaped my resilience. After losing my mother at the age of three and being raised by my grandmother, Gloria Taylor, in New Orleans, I learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and education early on. Life wasn’t easy—I faced childhood abuse by the hands of family members my grandmother thought she could trust, and self-esteem struggles.

A turning point came in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina uprooted my life and brought me to Jackson, Mississippi. Determined to rebuild, I launched True Essence Organics in 2018, a skincare line inspired by my battle with Desmoid Fibromatosis, a rare connective tissue cancer. Through persistence and faith, my business flourished, with my products now carried by major retailers like Walmart and Amazon.

My entrepreneurial spirit led me to create The Legacy Magazine Ms., a platform to highlight leaders and businesses in my community. This journey has earned me several awards and nominations, including the 2023 Entrepreneurial Award and the 2025 Soul Awards. I’ve also had the privilege of working with Southern Soul artists, becoming the head publicist for Hit4Hit Entertainment, and running Magnolia Gemz & Gentz.

Through my podcast Standing on Business and collaborations with entertainers, I’ve continued to expand my reach while building generational wealth. Despite the hardships I’ve faced, I’ve stayed committed to creating a legacy that inspires others to rise above their circumstances and pursue their dreams.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road at all—my journey has been filled with challenges that tested my resilience and strength. I lost my mother at the age of three and was raised by my grandmother after growing up without my father. As a child, I endured abuse by a family member, and later, I faced domestic violence and struggled with low self-esteem. Each of these experiences left lasting scars, but they also fueled my determination to rise above my circumstances.

One of the most life-altering struggles was being displaced by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The storm forced me to start over in Jackson, Mississippi, which was both daunting and transformative. Another significant challenge was my battle with Desmoid Fibromatosis, a rare connective tissue cancer. Enduring rigorous treatments while building my skincare business, True Essence Organics, was an uphill climb. However, my passion for creating something meaningful helped me push through the hardest times.

These struggles, though painful, shaped me into who I am today. They taught me resilience, the value of perseverance, and the importance of turning adversity into opportunity.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My business and organizations are built around empowering others, creating meaningful connections, and leaving a lasting legacy. I wear many hats—founder of True Essence Organics, publisher of The Legacy Magazine Ms., and CEO of Magnolia Gemz & Gentz. Each venture is rooted in purpose and passion, striving to make an impact in unique ways.

True Essence Organics specializes in natural, high-quality skincare products inspired by my personal journey battling Desmoid Fibromatosis. I wanted to create something that was not only effective but also meaningful. Today, our products are available through major retailers like Walmart, Amazon, and Cabrini Green Superfoods. What sets us apart is our focus on natural ingredients, authenticity, and a deep commitment to helping others embrace self-care.

The Legacy Magazine Ms. is another cornerstone of my work. It’s more than a publication—it’s a platform to celebrate influential leaders, entrepreneurs, and Southern Soul artists, giving them the spotlight they deserve. To date, we’ve featured over 400 artists and business owners worldwide, which is a source of great pride. I’ve also had the honor of being nominated for multiple awards, including the 2024 Shero Entrepreneur Award and the 2025 Soul Awards, which reflect the reach and influence of the magazine.

What truly sets my brands apart is the heart behind them. Every product, story, and service I create is a reflection of my personal journey and dedication to inspiring others. I’m most proud of building businesses that represent resilience and perseverance while creating opportunities for others to shine.

I want readers to know that everything I do is centered on community, creativity, and excellence. Whether it’s through our skincare line, media platform, or other ventures, my goal is to motivate and uplift others, proving that no matter the obstacles, success is within reach.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Over the next 5-10 years, I see significant shifts in both the beauty and media industries, driven by innovation, technology, and a growing focus on authenticity and inclusivity.

In the beauty industry, there’s a continued demand for natural, sustainable, and eco-conscious products, which aligns with the foundation of True Essence Organics. Consumers are becoming more educated and selective about the ingredients they use, and I believe transparency will be key to brand loyalty. Additionally, the integration of technology—like AI-driven personalized skincare recommendations—will redefine how people interact with brands and products. The rise of small, purpose-driven brands over big corporations is another trend I anticipate, as consumers increasingly connect with authentic stories and values.

In media, I see a growing need for platforms like The Legacy Magazine Ms. that celebrate diversity and highlight untold stories. As the world moves toward digital-first content, interactive and immersive experiences—like augmented reality (AR) features or exclusive digital content—will likely become staples. I also expect media to play a bigger role in bridging communities and supporting niche industries, especially as audiences crave more representation and relatability in what they consume.

Overall, the biggest changes will center on personalization, sustainability, and the blending of technology with community-focused initiatives. These trends excite me because they align closely with my vision and values, and I’m eager to adapt and grow with these industries while continuing to make a meaningful impact.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.thelegacymagazinems.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelegacymagazinems?igsh=MWV6Y2FtMGNweDc4Ng%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15UUsx7Wcq/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Twitter: https://x.com/tlmagazinems_?s=21
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@chanthee_goat?si=yATQGIsD5KhYTrdh