Jem Ebony

songwriter / podcaster / life coach

BIOGRAPHY

Jemiyra Kennedy is a dynamic creator, entrepreneur, and community mentor based in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Born and raised in the Twin Cities, Jem is the founder and executive of Unhidden Looks, a wellness and beauty brand rooted in integrity, self-expression, and care. Through her work as a licensed cosmetologist, Jem provides hair, skin, and nail services that reflect both her technical expertise and deep passion for helping others feel seen and celebrated. Since officially launching Unhidden Looks in 2018, she has built a loyal client base primarily through word-of-mouth, allowing her to remain self-sustaining while cultivating a strong community presence.

In addition to her cosmetology practice, Jem is a mentor, life coach, and teaching artist. Her journey in mentorship began in high school, where she was recognized for her ability to support peers academically and emotionally. That experience ignited a lifelong dedication to youth empowerment, leading her to join In Progress in 2019 as an artist and mentor. At In Progress, Jem has developed skills in photography, video production, and music composition through the NEXXUS Program. She now uses that knowledge to support other artists, teaching technical skills and leading creative workshops that center confidence and personal growth.

Jem is also a content creator, model, and blogger who documents her daily life through writing, video, and social media. Her blog and YouTube content reflect her holistic approach to wellness, beauty, travel, and creative entrepreneurship. She has contributed written work to platforms such as Hairscripts and Living Ebony, and previously modeled with D & A Talent Agency, using fashion and movement as tools for storytelling.

One of Jem’s most meaningful collaborations has been with the Saint Paul Public Library’s Kaleidoscope: Little Learners series, where she led vocal training and confidence-building workshops for young audiences. Her goal is to continue expanding her work in education and storytelling, while pursuing self-sustainability. Jem is currently preparing to launch a long-term dream: owning and documenting her journey as a millennial farm owner, sharing the experience of land stewardship as a young woman of color.

QUALIFICATIONS

Jem is a licensed cosmetologist with advanced skills in hair, skin, and nail care. She is a mentor and life coach with years of experience supporting youth and emerging artists in both personal development and creative practice. She is proficient in music production using Pro Tools and has experience as a vocalist and live performer.

As a writer and content curator, Jem has published blogs and created multimedia content centered on wellness, beauty, and lifestyle. She is skilled in photography, videography, and social media strategy, and has worked professionally as a model, collaborating with talent agencies and local creatives. Her multidisciplinary background makes her a powerful voice in both artistic and community-based spaces.

skills

  • writing

  • content creating 

  • Pro Tools

  • singing and performing

  • mentor

  • modeling

  • cosmetologist: hair, nails, and skin 

links