Latoya Benjamin, Summerville, S.C., Paul Mitchell I The School

Latoya receives a $3,750 Andrew Gomez Barbering and Cosmetology scholarship toward her cosmetology school tuition. She describes her journey toward becoming a cosmetologist as characterized by perseverance. “I know the impossible can become possible when you never give up no matter how hard the journey may be,” says Benjamin in her application video. After graduating and earning her license, Latoya wants to open a salon and follow the Paul Mitchell legacy of holding events that celebrate and give back to the local community.