International Women's Day is here! Celebrated on March 8th every year to honour the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women around the world. It's also a day to advocate for gender equality and women's rights. In celebration of this day, we teamed up with some of our fabulous Halo VIP’s, and asked them a few questions…
Leanne Mitchell: @Leannemitchellbeauty
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am 35, a single mum to my daughter who is 14 years old. I started my career in training to become a counsellor in the mental health sector. After some difficulties my daughter had with her health and learning at school, I had to home school her and that’s where my nail journey began. Five years later, being in the industry I think I've found my calling! And anyone that follows me knows how passionate about PoliBuild I am lol, I've got a lot to learn still and a lot of growing to do but as I say to everyone, strive for progression not perfection, and you will find your way.
What women have inspired you in your life? And why?
My mum and my Nan were my biggest inspiration; their story is not much different from my own. Building something from nothing, showing bravery, resilience, and pure determination to get to where you need to be. My Nans mindset of ‘what's the worst that can happen?’ and my Mum’s mindset of ‘trying everything until you find the thing you love’, developed my mindset to what it is now.
How can women help inspire, uplift, and empower each other?
Women can inspire one another by seeing one another as a team instead of competition. Recognise we are all on our own journeys, but we can show love to one another along the way too. Within the beauty industry it’s important to credit one another, not gate-keep information, be respectful and kind towards each other’s work. One like can change one person's whole day. Learn from each other. Ultimately, we are all humans trying to get through life, feeding ourselves and / or our children.
Jade Miller @nichehairandbeauty
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
My names Jade, I’m 36 in April, single parent, dog mum and I own a hair and beauty salon called Niche in Long Eaton, Nottingham. I have owned the salon for nearly 7 years. I have also been a Nail Technician for 9 years and a Halo VIP for over a year! I have a 14-year-old son called Jesse and I have 2 dogs called Blue and Violet.
What women have inspired you in your life? And why?
There is only one woman who inspires me and that's my best friend, my mum. My mum is the strongest woman I know, physically and mentally. There is nothing that she cannot do. She's the glue that holds our family together and no matter what life throws at her she conquers it every time. She's an incredible role model for anybody, a true inspiration, a fantastic mother, grandmother, and friend.
How can women help inspire, uplift, and empower each other?
The quote that came to mind when answering this question is: "Be the woman who fixes another woman's crown, without telling the world that it was crooked". Life in general is difficult, especially of late, imagine being a person that pulls down others and makes them feel worthless. That to me is disgusting, life should be about helping, being kind and supporting others. Just by giving a stranger a smile while walking along the street, helping someone with a shopping bag can instantly change and uplift someone's mindset for the day. So, tell that stranger her hair looks nice, support your friend’s business by talking about it, sharing social media pages, tell them you're proud of them. From experience, hearing and seeing such small things definitely empowers me and makes me feel like I'm doing okay.
Hari Hatfield @nailsby_harieva
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Hari and I’m 27! I worked in dentistry from 10 years working my way from trainee dental nurse to assistant practice manager and have been doing nails for the last 2 years. I’ve recently made the huge decision to go full time as a nail artist so I can work from home around my twin babies, and I’m so excited to see where my future in the nail industry goes! I met my husband when I was 16 and we got married in 2017. In June 2022 we welcomed our baby twins, Bobby and Poppy. I run my nail business from home and am lucky enough to have a home salon. I have a huge passion for nail art and adore creating fun and colourful designs.
What women have inspired you in your life? And why?
The most inspirational woman in my life is without a doubt my Mum. She has set an amazing example for me from day one. This woman has shown me how to be a kind person, has always allowed me to be myself and supported all my decisions, she’s shown me the importance of running a side business and set a wonderful example of how to be an amazing mother. She has shaped me into the woman I am today. She’s always been so motivated to learn new skills and seizes all opportunities thrown at her. Even at the age of 60, she’s not only employed as a dental hygienist but is a self-employed holistic therapist and yoga teacher. She’s taught me to be a strong, independent woman and I wouldn’t be who I am today without her love and support. She is simply amazing. She is my role model.
How can women help inspire, uplift, and empower each other?
Support other women! Lift each other up, compliment each other, share each other’s achievements. Help one another and unite. I was so worried when I entered into the beauty industry about competitors but 99% of the time those who are commenting on my photos, sharing my work, liking, and saving my posts are other nail techs! It’s this amazing community of supportive women who want to love and support each other, and it’s amazing. Be kind to one another.
A big thank you to our VIP's for sharing! So, lets spread some love and inspire, empower and uplift each other this International Women's Day!!!
