Beauty Changes Lives Gala 2025: A Night of Glamour, Gratitude, and Giving Back

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Beauty Changes Lives Gala 2025: A Night of Glamour, Gratitude, and Giving Back

Orlando, FL – May 31, 2025 – The 2025 Beauty Changes Lives Gala, held on Saturday, May 31, at the Hilton Orlando in collaboration with Premiere Orlando, was an unforgettable evening celebrating the transformative power of beauty and wellness. The event brought together over 400 industry leaders, professionals, and supporters to honor excellence and raise funds for the organization’s mission to make beauty and wellness careers a first choice.

The gala was emceed by industry icons Sam Villa and Elizabeth Faye, whose dynamic presence set the tone for an inspiring night. A highlight of the evening was the generous $300,000.00 paddle raise studded by record-breaking contributions by brands and individuals alike. A surprise match-gift of $50,000 was made by Linh and Tam Nguyen of Advance Beauty College, turning ten $5,000 donations into $100,000.00 on the spot! Thanks to the collective generosity of our guests, the event raised over $700,000.00 to support the mission and programs of Beauty Changes Lives.

This year’s Legacy Awards honored three trailblazers whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the beauty industry:

  • Legacy Awardee in Hair: Reuben Carranza, Group CEO of Bansk Beauty, recognized for his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to mentorship and philanthropy.
  • Legacy Awardee in Wellness: Michael Q. Pugliese, CEO of Circadia, celebrated for his commitment to education, innovation, and empowering skincare professionals worldwide.
  • Legacy Awardee in Nails: Minh Tam Nguyen & The Nguyen Family, honored for their profound legacy in the nail industry and their transformative impact on the Vietnamese-American beauty community.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our sponsors, whose generous support made this event possible:

  • Presenting Sponsor: L’Oreal Professional Products Division
  • Diamond Sponsor: Regal Nails Salon & Spa
  • Platinum & Scholarship Sponsors: amika, Bellus Academy, Circadia, CLICS, Ulta Beauty, Wella Company
  • Gold Sponsors: Aveda, Innersense Organic Beauty, Neill Corporation, Pivot Point International, Reuzel, Sam Villa, Universal Companies, Vitality Project
  • Silver Sponsors: Associated Hair Professionals, Associated Skincare Professionals, KAO Salon Division
  • Bronze Sponsors: Borboleta Pro, Paul Mitchell, Qnity for Schools, Sola Salons
  • Copper Sponsors: Martinni Beauty

The Beauty Changes Lives Gala 2025 was more than an event—it was a testament to the power of community, innovation, and the enduring impact of giving back. As the #1 Resource for Industry Scholarships, Beauty Changes Lives is fueled by the generosity of our supporters, volunteers, and advocates. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for beauty and wellness professionals.

“Thanks to the Circadia scholarship I received through Beauty Changes Lives, I was able to follow my passion and build a career that I absolutely love!” – Filsen Adam, BCL scholarship recipient, Licensed Advanced Practice Esthetician, and Circadia Skin Global Educator

Special thanks to the BCL Gala Committee:

  • Co-Chair, April McCoy, Reuzel
  • Co-Chair, Karen Short, Universal Companies
  • Beth Carson, Sam Villa
  • Elizabeth Faye, Vitality Project
  • Linh Nguyen, Advance Beauty College
  • Steve Reiss, Pivot Point
  • Julia Travaglia, amika

The Beauty Changes Lives Gala will return to Orlando, Saturday, May 30, 2026!

View more photos from the Gala

Beauty Changes Lives is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization dedicated to making careers in beauty and wellness a first choice. Through its scholarship, mentorship, awareness and advanced education programs, Beauty Changes Lives is empowering the next generation of professionals and elevating the Industry. To get involved or make a donation, please visit https://beautychangeslives.org

Reuben Carranza Receives Legacy Award in Hair at 2025 Beauty Changes Lives Gala

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Reuben Carranza Receives Legacy Award in Hair at 2025 Beauty Changes Lives Gala

(Shared from Bansk Beauty)

We were honored to celebrate our fearless leader Reuben Carranza at the Beauty Changes Lives Organization Gala this past weekend as he was awarded the Legacy Award for 2025, in recognition of his long standing impact on the beauty industry and distinctly heart-first leadership style.

Beauty Changes Lives is an organization cultivating the future of our industry, supporting and carving a way forward for beauty as a plan A – not a backup plan. An organization Reuben helped to nurture from the first seedling of an idea, born of a $1.5 million scholarship endowment in tribute to the iconic Vidal Sassoon and the establishment of an esthetics scholarship for foster youth in the name of Kate Somerville Skincare and now, a place where amika and their CEO Chelsea Riggs continues to drive this mission forward.

Thank you to Lynelle Lynch and the BCL Board of Directors for sharing this moment, alongside fellow honorees Michael Q. Pugliese, LE of Circadia and Tam T. Nguyen and Family of Advance Beauty College. An unforgettable evening of impact and inspiration for an industry we love, from the chair to the c-suite.

Reuben Carranza accepts Legacy Award from BCL President & Founder, Lynelle Lynch

View more photos from the Gala

Beauty Changes Lives is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization dedicated to making careers in beauty and wellness a first choice. Through its scholarship, mentorship, awareness and advanced education programs, Beauty Changes Lives is empowering the next generation of professionals and elevating the Industry. To get involved or make a donation, please visit https://beautychangeslives.org

Michael Q. Pugliese Receives Legacy Award in Wellness at 2025 Beauty Changes Lives Gala

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Michael Q. Pugliese Receives Legacy Award in Wellness at 2025 Beauty Changes Lives Gala

Orlando, FL – May 31, 2025 – At the 2025 Beauty Changes Lives Gala, held on May 31 in Orlando, Florida, Michael Q. Pugliese, CEO of Circadia, was honored with the organization’s Legacy Award in Wellness. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the beauty and wellness industry through innovation, mentorship, education, and philanthropy.

As a third-generation skincare leader, Pugliese has continued the legacy of Circadia’s founder, Dr. Peter T. Pugliese, by advancing skin science and professional education. Under his leadership, Circadia has become synonymous with cutting-edge formulations and unwavering support for skincare professionals worldwide.

Pugliese’s commitment to education is evident through initiatives like Circadia University, an online learning platform offering over 40 courses designed to enhance skincare knowledge and expertise. Additionally, the Sage Michaela Lucas “Timing is Everything” Scholarship, named after his daughter, supports BIPOC students pursuing careers in esthetics, skincare formulation, and cosmetic chemistry. During the gala, Pugliese was joined on stage by his daughter, Sage, symbolizing their family’s dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion within the industry.

“Receiving the Beauty Changes Lives Legacy Award is deeply humbling,” said Pugliese. “At Circadia, we believe that education is the foundation of success, and we are committed to helping estheticians build thriving careers. This recognition reaffirms our mission to elevate, educate, and empower skincare professionals worldwide.”

Beauty Changes Lives is dedicated to making careers in beauty and wellness a first-choice by empowering the next generation through scholarships, mentorships, and educational opportunities. Circadia’s ongoing support has been crucial in advancing this mission, particularly within the growing wellness sector of the industry.

Michael Q. Pugliese and his 2025 Beauty Changes Lives Legacy in Wellness Award

Michael Q. Pugliese accepts his 2025 Beauty Changes Lives Legacy in Wellness Award joined on stage by Katelyn Macy-Sandoval

Michael Q. Pugliese joined on stage by daughter and scholarship namesake, Sage Michaela Lucas, Circadia COO Katelyn Macy-Sandoval, and Scholarship recipient Filsen Adam

View more photos from the Gala

Special Thanks to our Wellness Committee Chairs:

Karen Short, Universal Companies

Katelyn Macy-Sandoval, Circadia

Beauty Changes Lives is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization dedicated to making careers in beauty and wellness a first choice. Through its scholarship, mentorship, awareness and advanced education programs, Beauty Changes Lives is empowering the next generation of professionals and elevating the Industry. To get involved or make a donation, please visit https://beautychangeslives.org

Beauty Changes Lives Hosts Transformative 2025 Industry Leader Roundtable

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Beauty Changes Lives Hosts Transformative 2025 Industry Leader Roundtable Featuring Internet Pioneer Vint Cerf

Orlando, FL – May 31, 2025 — Beauty Changes Lives successfully hosted its third annual Industry Leader Roundtable at the Hilton Orlando during Premiere Orlando, bringing together 90 top executives and thought leaders from across the beauty, barbering, nails, and wellness sectors.

Held the same day as the annual Beauty Changes Lives GALA, the Roundtable serves as a platform for cross-sector collaboration, candid dialogue, and actionable insights on the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

This exclusive, invitation-only event explored the timely theme: Technology 3.0: Technology and the Future of the Beauty, Barber, and Wellness Industry.

Our program was moderated by Edwin Neill, President and CEO of Neill Corporation and Beauty Changes Lives Board Member.

The afternoon opened with a powerful conversation between Dr. Vint Cerf, one of the “Fathers of the Internet” and Google’s Chief Internet Evangelist, and Charles Brown, Founder & CEO of CLICS and Beauty Changes Lives Board Member. Dr. Cerf shared insights on artificial intelligence, trust, lifelong learning, responsible innovation, and a glimpse into emerging technologies.

“Technology is not just a tool,” said Dr. Cerf. “It’s a catalyst for reimagining how we connect, create, and serve.”

Following the keynote, participants broke into facilitated working groups to examine how technology is impacting the professional beauty industry. Topics included:

  • Preserving the Human Connection in a Tech-Driven Industry

  • Making Smarter Technology Choices: Partners, Priorities, and ROI

  • Driving Internal Buy-In and Adoption

  • Technology and Industry Associations

Key findings from the working groups included:

  • Technology should enhance—not replace—the human connection. Tools that reduce inefficiencies free up time for more meaningful, personalized service.

  • Smarter tech decisions start with strategy. Leaders emphasized the need for shared evaluation frameworks, centralized industry data, and greater collaboration.

  • Leadership drives adoption. Clear communication, defined benefits, and strategic timelines are essential for successful implementation.

  • AI can accelerate education and career growth. Tools like AR/VR, ChatGPT, and automation are reshaping how professionals learn, work, and grow.

The Roundtable also provided valuable networking opportunities, giving industry leaders the chance to strengthen existing relationships and form new ones. The program concluded with updates from Beauty Changes Lives and the Unite As One coalition of industry associations.

“This Roundtable was designed to challenge assumptions, expand thinking, and spark ideas that can be applied across the industry,” said Lisa Roeberg, Executive Director of Beauty Changes Lives. “Dr. Cerf’s insights—and the depth of discussion in every group—helped us see how the beauty industry can embrace innovation without losing its heart.”

Participants found the event timely and valuable.

“Fascinating format—loved every moment. The conversation with Dr. Cerf was outstanding, as was the roundtable brainstorming!”


“Especially enjoyed the interactivity and dialogue sparked by the table discussions.”


“Dr. Cerf’s talk was incredibly insightful—what a treat! An excellent networking opportunity with so many peers.”

As follow-up to the event, a white paper featuring Dr. Cerf’s full conversation, detailed group takeaways, audience polling insights, event photos, a participant list, and participant comments and feedback will be released soon.

Special Thanks to our Roundtable Committee:

Charles Brown, CLICS colors

Phil Horvath, Peachy Studios

Edwin Neill, Neill Corporation

Steve Reiss, Pivot Point International

Karen Short, Universal Companies

Networking Break Sponsored by L’Oréal Professional Products Division. Event Powered by Pivot Point, Featuring Charles Brown of CLICS and Edwin Neill of Neill Corp.

For more information about the Industry Leader Roundtable and to learn how to get involved with Beauty Changes Lives, please visit beautychangeslives.org/roundtable.

View photos from the Roundtable

Beauty Changes Lives is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization dedicated to making careers in beauty and wellness a first choice. Through its scholarship, mentorship, awareness and advanced education programs, Beauty Changes Lives is empowering the next generation of professionals and elevating the Industry. To get involved or make a donation, please visit https://beautychangeslives.org

L’Oréal Professional Products Division First-Ever Presenting Sponsor of BCL Gala

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L’Oréal Professional Products Division Signs On As First-ever Presenting Sponsor of the Beauty Changes Lives Gala

Orlando, FL –  Beauty Changes Lives is excited to announce that for the first time in the history of its annual fundraising gala, L’Oréal Professional Products Division will step up as the Presenting Sponsor for the highly anticipated 2025 Beauty Changes Lives Gala. This partnership marks a historic commitment to the beauty and professional industry, and Beauty Changes Lives is honored to be the beneficiary of this unparalleled support.

As the world’s leading beauty company, L’Oréal champions its mission “To bring professional beauty to all, by leveraging the expertise and creativity of hairstylists.” Through this partnership, the L’Oréal family of professional brands—including Mizani, Matrix, Redken, Kérastase, Biolage, Pulp Riot, Pureology, shu uemura, and L’Oréal Professionnel Paris —demonstrates its dedication to empowering beauty professionals both current and future.

The alignment of the top professional product brand in the beauty space, and the #1 resource for scholarships and career development in the industry is a natural one and reinforces L’Oréal’s leadership and vision for the industry. The 2025 Gala is poised to celebrate this partnership, where education, innovation, and beauty converge to inspire the next generation of beauty and wellness professionals.

Several of the group’s brands have a beautiful history with the nonprofit that dates to the organization’s beginning. Matrix founders Sydell and Arnold Miller, who are long-time supporters of Beauty Changes Lives, leaving an endowment through the Sydell and Arnold Miller Foundation, exemplify the deep-rooted connection between L’Oréal’s professional brands and the mission of the organization. Both Mizani and L’Oréal Professionnel have offered scholarships through Beauty Changes Lives, nurturing diverse talent and inspiring future beauty leaders.

Redken Global Ambassador and acclaimed educator Sam Villa, will return to host the Gala, adding a dynamic presence to this unforgettable event. Known for his passionate support of Beauty Changes Lives and the future stylist community, Sam’s presence will undoubtedly elevate the evening’s program, creating an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

Beauty Changes Lives expresses immense gratitude to the L’Oréal Professional Products Division for becoming the first Presenting Sponsor of the Gala and for their unwavering commitment to education and innovation. This partnership perfectly embodies the mission of both organizations to change lives through beauty, mentorship, and opportunity. The 2025 Gala will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, during the Premiere Beauty Show in Orlando, Florida, and promises to be an inspiring evening celebrating the transformative power of beauty.

For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and more information about the 2025 Beauty Changes Lives Gala, please visit beautychangeslives.org/gala.

Become A Sponsor
Attend the Gala

Wellness Committee

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Beauty Changes Lives Launches Wellness Committee

As the wellness industry grows, Beauty Changes Lives has assembled a committee of industry leaders to advise us in how best to support current and future professionals.

Members of the new Wellness Committee include:

Co-Chairs: 

Karen Short, Universal Companies

Katelyn Macy, Circadia

Current Members (and growing):

CG Funk, Funk Consulting Group

Jessica Wadley, Oakworks

Karen Maroli, Scrips 

Lynelle Lynch, Bellus Academy

EXPLORE ESTHETICS SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

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Nguyen Family Announced Among 2025 Legacy Award Recipients

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Beauty Changes Lives Announces The Nguyen Family as a 2025 Legacy Award Recipient

January 27, 2025 – Beauty Changes Lives is proud to announce The Nguyen Family as one of the 2025 Legacy Award honorees. This year, the award expands to celebrate three trailblazers, recognizing the diverse contributions that shape the beauty industry. Among the honorees, the Nguyen Family’s recognition highlights the profound legacy of the late Mr. Minh Tam Nguyen (1933–2023) and his transformative impact on the nail industry. The award will be presented at the Beauty Changes Lives Gala on Saturday, May 31, 2025, in Orlando, Florida.

The Legacy of Mr. Minh Tam Nguyen
With the philosophy, “Wherever you go, go with all your heart,” Mr. Minh Tam Nguyen lived a life of purpose, resilience, and innovation. As an immigrant to the United States, he became a trailblazer in the nail industry, creating a foundation for Vietnamese-American success and redefining nail artistry as a professional career. He has been donned the “Godfather of the Nail industry.” His legacy will be celebrated by his children, Tam Nguyen and Linh Nguyen, who continue his commitment to education, community empowerment, and industry transformation through their leadership at Advance Beauty College.

Advance Beauty College and the Vietnamese Community
Under the leadership of Tam and Linh Nguyen, Advance Beauty College has become a pillar of education and opportunity for the Vietnamese community. With campuses in Southern California, the school has trained tens of thousands of professionals, many of whom have gone on to lead successful careers in the nail industry.

The Nguyen Family’s work has a connection to Tippi Hedren, the Beauty Changes Lives 2014 Legacy Award honoree. Hedren famously introduced Vietnamese women to nail artistry as a career and brought many individuals to the United States to develop their skills. This event inspired Minh to earn his credentials and eventually open his own salon and school, catalyzing the growth of the Vietnamese community’s integral role in the nail industry, which continues to thrive today.

A Legacy of Giving Back 

The Nguyen family’s commitment to giving back goes beyond education. They have supported various initiatives to uplift the Vietnamese community, promote career development, and empower individuals through economic opportunities. To honor their father’s memory and his lifelong dedication to education and service, the Nguyen family will make a $50,000 donation to Beauty Changes Lives through their annual Gala, becoming the first-ever Diamond sponsor of the event. This generous contribution helps ensure that future generations can benefit from mentorship, scholarships, and career opportunities.

Expanding the Legacy Award
Beauty Changes Lives is proud to expand the Legacy Award honorees in 2025, reflecting the organization’s mission to elevate and celebrate more trailblazers in Hair, Nails, and Wellness. Past recipients of the Legacy Award include Horst Rechelbacher, Jane Wurwand, and Sydell & Arnold Miller.

“Mr. Minh Tam Nguyen’s vision and dedication to elevating the nail industry, mentoring future generations, and empowering the Vietnamese community exemplify what it means to leave a legacy,” said Jan Arnold, co-founder of CND and Founding Member at Beauty Changes Lives. “We are honored to celebrate the Nguyen Family’s contributions and their continued impact through education, community, and philanthropy.”

For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and more information about the 2025 Beauty Changes Lives Gala, please visit beautychangeslives.org/gala.

Become A Sponsor
Attend the Gala

Reuben Carranza Announced Among 2025 Legacy Award Recipients

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February 5, 2025 – Beauty Changes Lives is honored to announce Reuben Carranza, Group CEO of Bansk Beauty, as a distinguished Legacy Award honoree for the 2025 Beauty Changes Lives Gala, taking place on Saturday, May 31, 2025, in Orlando, Florida. This year, the Legacy Award expands to recognize three trailblazers who have profoundly shaped the beauty industry and its future through innovation, mentorship, and philanthropy.

Reuben’s connection to Beauty Changes Lives runs deep, as he was a founding board member and a steadfast advocate for the organization’s mission. Throughout his extraordinary career, Reuben has seamlessly integrated Beauty Changes Lives into every new opportunity, fostering partnerships and advancing initiatives that empower the next generation of beauty professionals.

As the Group CEO of Bansk Beauty, Reuben oversees a portfolio of transformative beauty brands, including Amika, Eva NYC, and Ethique Beauty. Under his leadership, these brands have embraced philanthropy and industry mentorship, with Amika emerging as a major donor and partner of Beauty Changes Lives. Through his vision, Reuben has inspired these brands to champion education and opportunity for beauty professionals, further solidifying the beauty industry’s commitment to giving back.

“Reuben embodies the heart of Beauty Changes Lives,” said Lynelle Lynch, President and Founding Member at Beauty Changes Lives. “His visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to mentorship and philanthropy have transformed not only the organizations he leads but the lives of countless beauty professionals worldwide. We are thrilled to honor his legacy and celebrate his enduring impact on the industry.”

The Beauty Changes Lives Gala will celebrate Reuben Carranza alongside other esteemed honorees who have significantly elevated the beauty industry. Past recipients of the Legacy Award include Vidal Sassoon, Paul Mitchell, Tippi Hedren, Horst Rechelbacher, Carolyn Aronson, and Mario Tricoci.

For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and more information about the 2025 Beauty Changes Lives Gala, please visit beautychangeslives.org/gala.

Become A Sponsor
Attend the Gala

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