Success Stories
Kena Wrap Expands Global Reach
Johnson launched Kena Wrap out of necessity while raising her children, seeking a practical way to simplify their morning routine. By wrapping their hair at night, she found an effective solution that preserved hair health and saved time. That same innovation expanded into a broader mission to support individuals experiencing hair loss due to medical treatments, offering an alternative to traditional options with a focus on comfort, dignity, and effectiveness.
Since its founding in 2021, Kena Wrap has steadily expanded its footprint. In addition to its online presence, the product is now available locally and nationally in high-visibility locations, including the Albuquerque International Sunport, Marriott Hotels, and Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. This growing retail presence reflects both increasing demand and the product’s versatility across markets.
“The City of Albuquerque’s Small Business Office has played an important role in helping Kena Wrap grow,” Johnson said. “Through mentorship, training, and networking opportunities, I have been able to strengthen my business strategy, connect with other entrepreneurs, and position Kena Wrap to pursue bigger opportunities.”
That preparation proved critical when Kena Wrap was selected, after a competitive two-year process, for the inaugural cohort of the Ascend Airport Business Program. The program provided a platform for increased visibility and access to major retail partners. As a result, Johnson secured a wholesale agreement with WHSmith, one of the largest airport retail operators in the world. While Kena Wrap maintains its presence at the Sunport, this partnership opens the door to international markets and significantly expands the company’s reach beyond New Mexico.
Looking ahead, Johnson is focused on using her success to create opportunities for others. She recently launched HerAI Ventures, an initiative designed to teach entrepreneurship through digital tools and artificial intelligence, with a particular emphasis on youth, women, and underserved communities. Her long-term vision includes partnering with local programs to position Albuquerque as a hub for emerging technology and innovation.
Johnson credits the continued support of the City of Albuquerque and its Small Business Office as an important factor in her journey. Kena Wrap’s growth from a locally inspired idea into a globally positioned brand reflects both entrepreneurial determination and the impact of strategic support systems that help small businesses scale.