Selena Gomez is not just a pop icon; she's a visionary entrepreneur who has transformed her passion for inclusivity and mental health advocacy into a thriving business empire. As the CEO and Founder of Rare Beauty, Gomez is breaking down unrealistic beauty standards while championing mental health initiatives and education.
Rare Beauty, inspired by Gomez's album "Rare," is more than just a makeup company; it's a movement. Since its launch in 2020, Rare Beauty has made waves by promoting inclusivity, offering a diverse range of 48 foundation and concealer shades, and creating disability-friendly packaging. But it doesn't stop there; Gomez is committed to giving back, with one percent of all sales donated to the Rare Beauty Impact Fund to support mental health resources and education.
Driven by her personal journey and passion for social responsibility, Gomez's impact extends beyond the beauty industry. Through the Rare Impact Fund, she aims to raise $100 million over the next decade to reduce mental health stigma and expand access to services for young people worldwide. Her dedication to this cause was evident at the inaugural Rare Impact Foundation Benefit, where celebrities and supporters gathered to raise funds and awareness for mental health.
As a singer, actress, producer, and businesswoman, Gomez has achieved remarkable success, with multiple albums topping the charts and numerous awards to her name. But her influence goes beyond music and entertainment; she's a trailblazer in the business world, with Rare Beauty valued at $2 billion in 2024. With over 430 million followers on Instagram, Gomez is not just the most-followed woman; she's a role model, inspiring millions to embrace their uniqueness and prioritize mental well-being.
Selena Gomez's journey from child star to global icon is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to making a difference. Through Rare Beauty and the Rare Impact Fund, she's not just turning passions into profits; she's changing lives and leaving a lasting impact on the world.
You can find out more or shop her brand here: www.rarebeauty.com
Kelly J. Mendenhall, an artist and advocate for social change and disability inclusion, is a visionary leader. As a disabled author, artist, and CEO of Affordable Art Revolution, Mendenhall's mission transcends simple products; through each of her hand-crafted items, she intends to spread love, joy, and accessibility, especially to those facing the struggle of invisible illness.
Her Affordable Art Revolution store offers a pay-what-you-can platform. Mendenhall's approach is simple: art should be accessible to all. With her handmade original works, customers pay what they can and then contribute as they feel, helping her to further the mission of inclusion and accessibility.
Mendenhall's journey originated as a nonprofit professional. However, after facing debilitating health issues, including a series of surgeries and chronic pain, she turned to art as a lifeline and outlet. Her mastery of embroidery, particularly in creating heirloom-quality Christmas stockings and ornaments, serves as a source of personal healing and a place for others suffering to find solace and creativity within a safe space.
Driven by her own experiences, Mendenhall champions the importance of accessible artisan crafts in alleviating mental health issues, chronic pain, and stress. She advocates for a world where disability is not a barrier to participation. Through her advocacy and art, she inspires others to embrace their strength and agency, envisioning a world where disabled artists are not marginalized but celebrated for their distinct contributions.
To shop Mendenhall’s art or connect with her, visit: https://kellyjmendenhall.com
Dr. Tamara Charles is a multi-passionate advocate for change and empowerment. As an author, domestic violence advocate, philanthropist, and empowerment speaker, Charles has devoted her life to the service and empowerment of others. Driven by her own challenges and experiences, she owns Charged Up Salon and Spa and Charged Up Cosmetics, where she caters her services to uplift domestic violence victims and survivors.
Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Dr. Charles is the Founder & CEO of Sisters In Charge, a nonprofit organization based in Georgia providing shelter, education, and essential services to battered women and their children. Born in Port Au Prince, Haiti, Dr. Charles immigrated to the U.S. at the age of five, growing up in Lynn, MA, and Brooklyn, NY, where she learned the art of caregiving and supporting her siblings while her parents worked to make ends meet.
As someone who personally experienced financial struggles, Dr. Charles ensures her business is accessible to people of all backgrounds. Through partnerships with other organizations, she provides free services quarterly to victims and survivors of domestic violence, offering everything from hair and makeup services to body sculpting and facials.
She aims to be remembered as a woman who pursued her dreams and used her success to uplift others. To learn more about Dr. Charles and her ventures, visit www.chargedupcosmetics.com.
Kristin Sullivan, founder of The Stinky Pet Co., is a passionate dog mom and animal advocate revolutionizing the pet wellness industry. After experiencing insurmountable personal challenges, including the loss of her mother and her home in Hurricane Ian, Kristin found solace and strength in her loyal canine companion. During her darkest days, her dog became a lifeline. These experiences inspired her to create a line of pet-safe products that give back to small animal welfare causes.
Sullivan ensures a portion of The Stinky Pet Co.'s sales go towards fighting small animal abuse and cruelty. She seeks to combat various forms of mistreatment, from animal dumping to chaining and dogfighting. Sullivan believes in protecting those who cannot speak for themselves; she considers herself committed to the cause until her last breath.
Her passion for pet safety and welfare is evident in her products, aiming to raise awareness about hidden toxins that can harm pets. By offering safe, clean alternatives, she seeks to make a last impact on pet owners' understanding of the risks their furry friends face.
Kristin is fiercely dedicated to continuing her mother's advocacy against animal cruelty, giving a voice to the voiceless. She aims to be remembered as someone who made a significant difference in the lives of pets and their owners– giving a voice to those who can only quietly whimper.
To shop The Stinky Pet Co., visit here: https://thestinkypetco.com/
Dr. Kyri, CEO & Founder of Kyri's Kookies, is a dynamic woman business leader revolutionizing the baking industry with her passion for creating delicious treats that cater to everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions or allergies. In 2024, she's making waves by redefining what it means to enjoy cookies safely and inclusively.
Kyri's Kookies is more than just a bakery; it's a beacon of social responsibility and empowerment. Dr. Kyri's commitment to providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities and marginalized backgrounds extends beyond the kitchen, creating meaningful employment and fostering independence.
Driven by her personal journey from the Red Hook projects in Brooklyn, Dr. Kyri's urge to make profound shifts in her industry stems from a deep-seated desire to break down barriers and empower those who have been overlooked. Through Kyri's Kookies, she's not only offering delicious treats but also spreading kindness and gratitude with every bite.
In the industry, Dr. Kyri aims to be remembered as a force for good—a company that not only creates exceptional baked goods but also makes a meaningful difference in the lives of others. With Kyri's Kookies, every purchase is a gesture of kindness, supporting a community of inclusivity and social responsibility.
For more information, visit https://kyriskookies.com/
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