Many people today make the wrong assumption that we can only become one thing in life. But those who succeed find strategies that integrate the lives they want to live into one singular purpose. For entrepreneur and musician Sanli Ekin Ozlen, that’s bringing together her love for songwriting, modeling, and entrepreneurship into one identity.
Ekin Ozlen spent her time growing up in a small coastal town in Cocoa Beach, Florida. But her roots never affected her hunger for success. At five, she sang before crowds and put up regular shows for families and friends. But while music played a big part in her life, Ekin also had an insatiable passion for modeling. A former Miss Turkey finalist would get her big break when a surfwear company called Reef Brazil signed her as an international spokesperson and model. She would then start traveling the world for photo shoots, reaching countries like Germany, Switzerland, France, and South Africa, to name a few.
Later, Ozlen would relocate to New York City for a career in modeling. During that time, she would finish a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and enroll in the prestigious Black Nexxus Acting School in Manhattan. It was also at this juncture that her love for music would come back to life as she joined Brooklyn freestyle events. Armed with her Pro rig, she started experimenting with beats and began putting lyrics to them again. Her debut single, “Turkish Delight,” would prove to be a sensation. Through the production of the song, she got to work alongside Turkish rapper Cihan Ozdemir.
Then came the opportunity of a lifetime for Ekin Ozlen when she started her business Keracell, a stem cell technology business that helps people bring back their youthful glows once again. She would marry her love for the company with her passion for singing and performing. “I started using my music videos and my social media to highlight my brand, Keracell,” shares Ekin about how she was able to juggle two growing careers. “It has been a gift, as it’s allowed me to pursue both avenues of my professional career without having to sacrifice one for the other.”
Although, Ekin shares that the journey hasn’t been easy. Putting together music videos and a fast-growing business has seen its fair share of challenges. “It’s never easy when you’re trying to knock out two birds with one stone,” adds Ozlen. “You have to do it with creative care, and I think that we were able to accomplish that.”
Accordingly, Ekin has seen much growth in her business and music career. She is now the CEO of Keracell, which is climbing up the cosmetics and beauty industry ladder. Later, she would release another track titled “Where You At,” alongside actor and singer Vadhir Derbez and the Truemakers Music Group. She would follow that song up with “La Noche,” which would also skyrocket in popularity.
As an animal lover and an active Equestrian, Ekin also ensures that her company remains cruelty-free. The entrepreneur, musician, and model are highly grateful for the chance to thrive in three spaces and hopes she will inspire others who dream big goals.
Learn more about Ekin Ozlen and her business Keracell by visiting the company’s official website or Ekin’s Instagram profile.
