Today we’d like to introduce you to Lizette Gonzalez.
Lizette, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Lynwood, Ca. I’m also the first generation Mexican-American. My parents both crossed to this country illegally. My father crossed the desert at 14 and my mom walked through the border at 15 where they later met in high school. My future and education was a priority to them. Their struggles and stories are what push me to create a better life for my family. In high school, I began an extra credit class for cosmetology. That’s where I fell in love with the beauty industry. My goal was to become a part of every facet in the industry. I started at a chain 0salon to gain some experience. Then, I moved to a high-end salon. At this point in my career, this salon really opened doors for me. I was working on fashions shows and onset work. My clients were models, actors, writers and producers in the industry. It was very serial to be behind the scenes meeting celebrities. It reminds me of being a teen and thinking how “cool” and beautiful celebrities were and now, here I am, making them beautiful. Education is very important to me. I began to work as a brand educator for a hair color company and traveled the country. After several years, I decided I want to be more involved in the beauty industry. I became a cosmetology instructor. And now, I’m behind the chair, teaching cosmetology and working on set.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There’s never a smooth road when you’re fighting for your dreams. I’ve hit many plateaus along the way, not sure if I had enough talent to take my career to the highest level. I had to have enough courage in myself to allow myself to fail and bring myself back up.
As a woman in this industry now, respect yourself. Your brain will always be more beautiful than your body.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I’m a hairstylist, barber, and makeup artist. I LOVE HAIR. The tranquillity of hair running through my fingers as I mold it into different shapes is my wonderland. My brand strives for education. Education for myself and my clients. I give my clients a thorough consultation to ensure the best results and a guaranteed compliment on their hair.
Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
Finding a mentor is simple. You just need to find someone who represents you and what you represent to the world. Networking is key. Especially in this industry, we all try to help each other.
Contact Info:
- Address: Dej salon
13448 Ventura Blvd Sherman Oaks, Ca 91423 - Website: Frizzylizzyhair.com
- Phone: 8189814440
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: Lizette_gonz
- Facebook: Lizette Gonzalez
Image Credit:
Johanna Rivas, Peter Duke
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