At the heart of Los Angeles’s vibrant beauty scene lies a spirit of community and resilience, as evidenced by the gathering of influential founders like Carina Chaz of DedCool, Amy Liu of Tower 28, and Julissa Prado of Rizos Curls at the Los Angeles Beauty Forum. For Chaz, the city isn’t just a backdrop but the essence of her fragrance brand, embodying the entrepreneurial spirit that drives her. The trio engaged in a candid discussion about their experiences as business leaders navigating societal challenges, particularly recent crises like rampant wildfires and ICE raids. Their commitment to empowerment and social responsibility stood out as a significant aspect of their identities as Angeleno entrepreneurs.
As they shared their stories, each founder illustrated how personal experiences shaped their brands and missions. Prado, a lifelong resident, reflected on how the city inspired her entrepreneurial journey. Liu echoed this sentiment, emphasizing her brand’s focus on creating a safe space for individuals with sensitive skin, a mission deeply connected to the community of L.A. This heartfelt connection to their roots not only fosters innovation but also fuels their determination to make a positive impact, further solidifying their roles as leaders in beauty and beyond.
The practical impact of their leadership became evident during the devastating wildfires that swept through California in January. While Chaz took initiative to assist firefighting efforts from her Malibu home, Liu organized over 150 brands to donate essential supplies to displaced families. Meanwhile, Prado successfully raised substantial funds for immigrant families affected by ICE raids. They faced a critical juncture where choosing to act became a necessity, and Liu encapsulated this decision as one of “fight or flight.” Without hesitation, she opted to collaborate and fight for her community, illustrating a profound sense of agency that is often lost in tumultuous times.
Chaz and her colleagues highlighted their responsibility as beauty industry leaders to support and uplift their communities. The emotional toll of the crises affected them deeply, with Chaz confessing feelings of “survivor’s guilt” due to the hardships her team faced. Engaging in open conversations about loss and empathy became crucial, as they navigated the challenges of being both leaders and caretakers during such troubling times. Recognizing the strength that resides in vulnerability, they emphasized that showing up for one another builds community and resilience in a city marked by struggle and hope.
In a city characterized by its diverse immigrant communities, Prado pointed out that much of L.A.’s vibrancy stems from culturally rich network hubs that foster connection and support. These networks allow individuals to thrive and preserve their identities amidst chaos and adversity. Liu reaffirmed that L.A. illustrates the American Dream—places where people gather to chase aspirations. Yet, with pressing issues like immigration and community challenges, maintaining this dream becomes all the more complicated.
Looking ahead, the founders discussed their visions for community support and resilience. Chaz expressed her dedication to creating products with deeper meanings, while Liu highlighted her plans to strengthen community ties through her brand. Prado echoed the sentiment of joy and celebration, aiming to uplift the spirit of L.A. through her initiatives. Their collaborative spirit signals a new era for Los Angeles beauty brands—one that champions community, resilience, and a commitment to facing adversity together. By intertwining their missions with social responsibility, these founders embody a blueprint for not just business success, but meaningful impact in their ever-evolving city.