Becoming a Beacon

Columnist Danielle Keasling benefited from mentorship early in her career, found great success, and has made it her mission to give back to the next generation as a mentor herself. Here she tells a little of her journey from mentee to mentor.

As I stand today, deeply embedded in the vibrant world of hairstyling and beauty, it’s hard not to look back with immense gratitude for the guiding hands that shaped my journey. My career, now seasoned with accolades and global recognition, began much like any artist’s: full of passion but searching for direction. The mentors I encountered along the way didn’t just guide me; they transformed my perspective, sharpening my skills and deepening my understanding of this intricate industry.

I remember the first time I walked into a bustling New York salon, an eager apprentice ready to absorb every snippet of wisdom. My mentor then was a beacon of creativity and dedication, a renowned stylist whose hands seemed to weave magic. Watching him, I learned that hairstyling wasn’t merely about crafting stunning looks but about evoking emotions and empowering clients. This realization was my first profound lesson, extending beyond the techniques of cutting and styling into the psychology of beauty.

The transformation through guidance

Each mentor brought a new layer of expertise and entrepreneurial spirit, pushing me not only to master the art but also to understand the beauty trends that resonate on a global scale. From backstage at high-profile fashion shows to exclusive workshops, the lessons I absorbed were invaluable. They taught me the importance of precision, innovation and, most importantly, the courage to push boundaries and develop my own identity and feminine brand.

One mentor in particular stood out by instilling in me the significance of “doing Danielle”, because when I did just that, magic happened and nothing else mattered. I will always be grateful to Ammon Carver for that advice. It won me North American Hairstylist of the Year in 2018, and this year I passed it on to a mentee of mine, Galyna Poczciwinski, who was nominated for Hairstylist of the Year 2024. I could not be prouder of her and what she pushed through to deserve this nomination.

Passing on the torch

Embracing the role of a mentor myself was a natural progression in my career. The lessons from my mentors equipped me not only to succeed but to lead and inspire. As an executive at Great Lengths USA and an Ulta Beauty ambassador for L’Oréal with Biolage and Matrix, I found myself in positions where I could influence others’ careers and, more importantly, their lives.

Mentoring for me has become more than sharing knowledge; it’s about building confidence, fostering creativity, and empowering aspiring stylists to find their unique voice. Each session I run, whether a group coaching call on Zoom or a one-on-one meeting, is an opportunity to pass on the wisdom I’ve gathered, tailored to the dreams and skills of the next generation.

A circle of growth

Today, as I reflect on my own path from mentee to mentor, I see a beautiful cycle of growth and giving back that continues to drive the hairstyling industry forward. My goals to innovate and expand the influence of hairstyling are deeply intertwined with my role as a mentor. In educating both professionals and consumers, I am committed to raising industry standards and nurturing the next wave of talent.

As I continue to mentor, I strive to be as influential and supportive as those who once mentored me, knowing that every piece of advice and every shared experience can shape someone’s future. Mentorship is not just about passing on knowledge; it’s about inspiring change and carrying on a legacy of creativity and empowerment.

First published in SalonEVO.