L’Oréal Philippines, in collaboration with the local governments of Marikina and Manila, recently concluded another edition of the Beauty for a Better Life Program (BFBL), a free expert hairdressing training given to people in vulnerable social or economic situations. During the graduation ceremony held on December 15 at Marikina Convention Center, 54 residents of Marikina and Manila successfully embarked on the journey as professional hairdressers after completing three months of intensive training, internship in partner salons and competency evaluation.
BFBL, launched in the Philippines in 2017, is a global vocational beauty training by Fondation L’Oréal that aims to improve the lives of vulnerable people worldwide through employment or entrepreneurship. Over the years, the program has assisted 423 graduates in the Philippines, aged 18-50 years old, in upskilling and pursuing careers as hairdressing professionals. Aligned with the vision of elevating the salon and hairdressing industry in the Philippines, the BFBL program was co-developed by L’Oréal Philippines’ Professional Products Division.
“At L’Oréal, we believe that beauty can be a force of good. As you stand here today, you are not just graduates but professional hairstylists. More than the certificate and hairdressing tools, what you gained today is quality education that can reshape your future and help you create a better life one cut or color at a time.” said Krhizzy Pasigan, L’Oréal Philippines Corporate Affairs and Engagement Director, as she addressed the newest batch of BFBL graduates during the graduation ceremony.
The program’s impact goes beyond skill development, as each graduate has a unique and compelling journey of empowerment through beauty. Pursuing a career in hairdressing and hairstyling has been a lifelong dream for most of the graduates, especially for two individuals who emerged as top of their class and are now poised for a promising career in the beauty industry.
Ailene Solitas, 45 years old, Marikina City Valedictorian
Just three months ago, Ailene Solitas, identified herself as a stay-at-home mom, managing household chores and caring for her family within the confines of a simple and routine life. The opportunity to join the BFBL program came at a time when she needed it the most as she had been dealing with the loss of a loved one and spiraling into depression. Ailene aspired to align her life with her goals, and this desire began to take shape in her three-month training. Because of this, she was determined to make the most out of this opportunity and she was amazed at the transformation she and her life had gone through.
During her valedictorian speech, Ailene made a promise to herself and her trainers that the skills she acquired through the program would be utilized meaningfully. This fresh opportunity wasn’t solely for her benefit; it was a chance to create a positive change for both her and her family. The three-month program profoundly alerted her perspective. For Aileen, it wasn’t just about acquiring new skills; it was the inception of a future where her expertise could genuinely make a difference.
Carol Abong, 46 years old, City of Manila Valedictorian
Carol Abong’s journey through BFBL marked the beginning of a promising and hopeful future. Before the program, she has already been working from home as a nail and lash technician, but she always dreamt of doing something more – such as hairdressing. However, Carol did not know where to begin and according to her, this opportunity was an answered prayer that will equip her with skills that can help her become a channel of blessing to peoples’ lives. Reflecting on her path to graduation, she acknowledges the challenges and uncertainties, and more importantly, the numerous opportunities for professional growth and self-discovery. Carol expressed, “During our hands-on training, I had very mixed emotions — excited for the end result yet nervous, ensuring I followed every step being taught.”
In alignment with the program’s commitment, it offered Carol hope, allowing her to envision a beauty career to share with others. It goes beyond personal success; now, she can bring beauty not only to appearances but also to the lives of those around her. Carol expressed gratitude, stating, “As we ended the three-month training, I am grateful that the Carol Abong, who used to have zero knowledge on hairdressing, can now confidently cut my kids’ hair and color my friends”. After graduating at the top of her class, Carol is hopeful and inspired to take her career further, adding hairdressing to her home service offers and already having clients lined up during this holiday season just a few weeks after graduation.
A fulfilling career after Beauty for a Better Life training
Nhelyressa de Guzman, a previous Beauty for a better Life graduate, also addressed this year’s batch with her story. Nhelyressa graduated in 2018 and five years later, she is now an Assistant Manager at one of the biggest salon chains in the Philippines and is currently training to be a Senior Stylist. She is able to help her husband provide for their family financially and save for their children’s future. Nhelyressa also looks back on her previous life when she was unemployed and had no knowledge of the industry she was about to enter. “Hindi naging madali ang buhay after graduation, perowalang imposbile basta may pangarap ka,” [Life after graduation was definitely not easy, but as long as your dreams are intact, possibilities will always be there.] she shared.
Because of this opportunity, not only did Nhelyressa have stable and regular employment, but she was also equipped with the skills and confidence to start her own business — she had created a small area in her home where she can take clients in on her days off as well. This determination comes from her trainers’ advice to keep going as long as you still can. “Sinasabi lang sa amin noon na ‘pilitin ‘niyong matuto, kasi pag natuto kayo, 50 pesos ang isang haircut. Kapag may nagpa-haircut, may pangbili na kayo ng bigas. Pag may nagpa-haircut ulit, may pangbili na kayo ng ulam. Hindi talagakayo magugutom hangga’t kaya niyong gumawa,’” [They used to tell us, ‘choose to keep learning, because once you learn, you can earn PHP 50 for each haircut. When you have one client, you’re able to buy rice. When you have another client, you’re able to buy a dish. You will not go hungry as long as you’re still able to use your skills’.] she explained.
For Myra Binson, who was a street vendor with the purpose of supporting her family, life used to be very different. She recalls turning to vices and losing her way, before turning her life around through hard work within the program. “Dati, sugarol po ako at pasaway. Naligaw ng landas, pero dito, sa Beauty for a Better Life, nabago ko ang sarili ko at ang ugali ko. Naging disiplinado ako,” [I used to gamble a lot and I was uncontrollable. I lost my way, but with Beauty for a Better Life, I was able to change myself and my mindset. I became more disciplined.] she recalled.
Myra graduated from the program in 2019 and is now working in Toni & Guy, which is her first stable employment. She is currently undergoing the salon’s tedious training to be a certified technician. Like many others, the BFBL program did not only provide Myra with job opportunities, but also hope for a brighter future. “Dahil sa program na ito, nagkaroon po ako ng pag-asa kasi talagang sa squatters’ area po kami nakatira. Ngayon, dahil sa aking trabaho, napapagawa ko na po ang bahay namin at ang panganay kong anak ay college na,” [We live in the squatters area, but thanks to this program, I saw that there was hope for me and my family. Now, because of my job, I’m able to start renovations on our home and send my eldest child to college.] she shared.
The stories of these graduates exemplify the power of determination and the transformative influence of education and opportunity. Since its inception, the Beauty for a Better Life program has witnessed remarkable progress in graduate’s livelihood, with many securing stable positions in renowned salons across the Philippines and others establishing their local salons within their community.