MAI WE INTRODUCE YOU?
JOICO MASTER ARTIST, MAI HERNANDEZ
September 15th to October 15th is National Hispanic Heritage Month – but as far as Joico Artistic Educator, Mai Hernandez, is concerned, it’s a year-round celebration. “My heritage is my life!,” says our Venezuelan-born talent, who infuses her culture and passion in all that she does. Today, Mai’s sharing some very personal thoughts on being a proud Latinx…and the journey she’s traveled to become a rising star in our industry.
We’re celebrating…
WHAT:
National Hispanic Heritage Month
WHEN:
September 15 – October 15
WHY:
To pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic and Latinx Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.
Let’s meet Mai…
Joico Guest Artist, Mai Hernandez, has crafted an exciting career as an L.A.-based color specialist by demonstrating tenacity, “shear” grit, and a joi-ful heart…no matter how challenging the journey. And challenging it was: At just 15, this Venezuelan-born talent relocated to the United States with her sisters, and her mother, who was going through a self-described “rough divorce.” Hair became the savior. But in the chair…not behind it. “We would get our hair done, and it made me realize how important it was to feel beautiful and empowered,” recalls Mai, who had dreams of becoming a hairstylist since childhood. Eleven years later, she and her now-husband moved to Cali, where Mai enrolled at the Vidal Sassoon Academy. “With no time to play or a Plan B to fall back on, I hustled day in and day out, always giving 110%,” declares Mai, who believes that going the extra mile is what makes her shine. That and hard work. In just a single year, she “invested and took about 28 independent classes, diving head-first into a world of knowledge and growth that I never imagined.” Landing her a coveted spot as assistant to Joico Global Brand Ambassador, Larisa Love, Mai began embarking upon her newest passion – education. It’s a foundation she has continued to build on as a burgeoning solo artist. “I absolutely love sharing and helping other artists refine their craft, in a detailed-yet-simplified style.”
How Mai celebrates NHHM…
“I celebrate all year round! I’m very proud of my culture and my roots. For me, it isn’t just a month out of the year; but rather, a celebration every time I cook, bake, listen to music, make drinks -- sometimes even with an episode of a good ol’ novela! My heritage is my life. To be honest, I’m a foodie and absolutely LOVE to try new flavors and cuisines…but there’s nothing like my mom’s cooking; especially her Empanadas and Cachapas – Venezuelan corn cakes. Those authentic dishes she makes taste like home! Mexican food holds second place.”
Favorite childhood memories…
“Outside of Thanksgiving, I would say my favorite holiday is Los Carnevales! I remember when I was young, and it was that time of the year, I knew we were about to have fiestas everywhere (school, church, in the community). I’d get so excited because it was about to be a good time and I’d get my hands on so much candy!”
How Mai integrates Latinx culture into her professional life…
“First, I must say: music! If you come to my salon space, you might hear some Bad Bunny or some Maluma in the background. And, of course, working with darker hair color, because I’ve become so familiar with dark natural levels. The majority of my clients are Latinas; and being one as well, I’m able to understand certain elements of their requests. I’m able to connect with clients and -- from time to time -- even communicate with them in Spanish. All of these elements bring them to a level where they feel 100% comfortable with me.”
Have you had any challenges coming up in this industry as a Latinx?
“There’s no short answer to this. Like many others, I sure have! I want to acknowledge that it’s a part of my journey and professional growth, but I won’t dwell on it. I’d like to think that obstacles in any stage of life are a way of “self-training” to get us to the next level. I’m here now and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given: to work and be a part of an extraordinary company…for my platform and voice…for every person who’s believed in me…but above all, to God, who’s given me resilience and dedication. I’m happy for everything that encompasses my story and I can’t wait to see the future unfold.”
LIVE presentations in Spanish: Why they’re everything…
Not only do I think Latinx LIVES are important; they’re essential – and a large portion are Spanish speakers. In fact, the Spanish-speaking population in the U.S is about +41million*, and 577 million in the world* -- which makes Spanish the second most spoken language! Using the internet as a platform to reach and be accessible to all Spanish-speaking hairdressers to better their skills is unprecedented! I love that Joico is making a difference to elevate our industry. And I love that I’m part of the solution! My goal is to keep bringing knowledge and support to all beauty professionals.”
You can follow Mai Hernandez on Instagram, @maithehairbewithyou
*Source:
https://www.cnn.com/2013/09/20/us/hispanics-in-the-u-s-
