Problem: What makes Madame C.J. Walker's success story unique? She invented the concept of branding, in which the success of one product paves the way for success of other products. Her business flourished at a time when leadership opportunities for both Blacks and women were very limited. Her company was the first to market its products nationally through national ads and nationwide shipping. She gave back to her community by donating to philanthropic organizations, which few of her male counterparts did.