It’s been a fascinating road to Manhattan University for Solange Thomas Dowden ’26 (M.S.). Originally from the Caribbean island of Grenada, 
Dowden has an innate curiosity for how things are made and a desire to create useful products from raw materials.
“Engineering felt like the perfect pathway to turn that interest into impact,” she says.
“Engineers are problem solvers. We take abstract ideas and turn them into tangible solutions that improve quality of life, drive innovation, and address some of the world’s biggest challenges.”
Dowden began her studies at T.A. Marryshow Community College in Grenada, attaining an associate degree in natural sciences in 2015. She then received a scholarship to McMaster University in Ontario, Canada, where she pursued a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering.
“Chemical engineering was the ideal blend of my two academic passions — chemistry and mathematics,” she explains.
Chemical engineering also aligned with her long-term goal of working in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries.
“I was just drawn to the cosmetic industry. It’s where science directly improves people’s everyday lives.”
Upon graduation in 2021, Dowden obtained a position as a formulation/cosmetic chemist at Deciem Inc., the Toronto-based parent company of cosmetic brands The Ordinary and Niod. In that role, Dowden focused on product development from concept to formulation to pilot.
She later transitioned into a process innovation chemist, where she was responsible for scaling formulations, optimizing processes, and supporting the commercial launch of multiple skincare products.
Although she had landed a role in the cosmetics industry, Dowden says:
“I wanted to create something that merged my love for culture with my passion for logistics and client service.”
She had also identified a gap in the market back home in Grenada — a need for services that could better support travelers and carnival-goers. This inspired Dowden to found her own company, Valini Carnival Concierge & Courier, in 2023.
“Entrepreneurship has always been part of who I am,” she says.
“Founding my own company allowed me to channel my creativity into building experiences for others while solving real-world problems.”
Valini provides seasonal, premium concierge services for travelers during the Spicemas Carnival season, a 10-day celebration of Grenada culture and music held every August.
As founder and director, Dowden oversees operations including vendor relationships, strategic planning, client management, and logistics coordination. During peak season, the company employs 10–15 team members, including drivers and couriers.
Dowden believes that her training in chemical engineering shaped her approach to problem-solving, systems design, and process efficiency.
Dowden continued to juggle her role as process innovation chemist until 2024, when she decided to earn a master’s degree.
“I wanted to challenge myself academically and professionally,” she explains.
“Pursuing a master’s was a way to upskill, deepen my expertise, and position myself for larger opportunities in industries I’m passionate about.”
Manhattan University immediately stood out during Dowden’s search for a master’s program, thanks to its unique concentration in cosmetic engineering.
“That’s something very few programs offer,” she says.
“It was the perfect fit for my career aspirations.”
Valini is currently on pause and will be operational during its seasonal dates, allowing Dowden to focus on her studies during the academic year. She works as a graduate assistant on campus during the day and takes classes at night.
Her studies in cosmetic engineering have strengthened her technical foundation, while sharpening her critical thinking and ability to collaborate across disciplines.
Dowden expects to graduate from Manhattan University with her master’s in 2026. After graduation, she hopes to secure a full-time role in the cosmetics industry, ideally within research and design or production.
“My goal is to contribute to innovative product development while applying both my academic training and entrepreneurial experience.”
As featured in the Fall 2025 issue of Manhattan Magazine.