Today we’d like to introduce you to Ana Montero
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
**Our Story: The skin power Academy of Ana and Sthefany**
Sthefany and I (Ana) share a special bond. Not only are we from the same city and the same age, but we’re also both Cancers. Our journey started when Sthefany’s mom gave me my first gig as an esthetician. That’s when the magic began, and it’s been a wild ride filled with challenges and triumphs ever since.
**How We Met and Built Our Friendship:**
When I began working for Sthefany’s mom, I was just starting out in the beauty world. Sthefany was pregnant at the time, and as she navigated that exciting and challenging phase, I stepped in to help run the business alongside her husband. Working together brought us closer. Sthefany appreciated my dedication and the effort I put into my work, which led us to collaborate more closely.
As we spent time together, our friendship blossomed. We often found ourselves on the same wavelength, brainstorming ideas and bouncing thoughts off each other. It felt like we were connected by something divine, as if we were meant to be partners in this journey. Our shared passion for beauty turned us into study buddies, always digging into new techniques and sharing tips on treatments.
**Sthefany’s Story:**
Sthefany was born in Maracaibo, Venezuela, a vibrant place full of dreams. When she and her husband decided to come to the U.S., what started as a vacation turned into a whole new chapter. They had to start from scratch: her husband took on deliveries and sold cars, while Sthefany worked as a waitress, drove for Uber, and delivered Amazon packages.
After a year, Sthefany felt the pull to revive the laser hair removal business her mom had started back in Venezuela. With hard work and dedication, she got her license in the U.S. and began building her business, step by step. She dove into learning about finances, marketing, and more. As her business grew, so did her expertise. Now, she’s sharing her journey through a book that helps others navigate their own obstacles, guiding them on their path.
**My Story (Ana):**
I was born in Maracaibo and lived there until I was 24—honestly, those were the best years of my life. I graduated as a civil engineer and studied English and a bit of French. My family, especially my parents and brother, have always been my rock. I met my boyfriend in Venezuela, and we decided to travel to the U.S. for vacation. But like many Venezuelans, we ended up staying because of the situation back home. From day one, my boyfriend and my parents have supported every wild idea I’ve had.
When we got here, I started from the bottom: washing dishes, then cooking, and spent a lot of time doing deliveries. I’ve always been a big dreamer, constantly thinking about what I wanted to do in this new chapter of my life. Everything changed the day I decided to get a facial. I needed a break from the grind, and that day sparked something in me. I got hooked on the world of aesthetics and, without hesitation, decided to pursue it.
I remember working late-night deliveries and hitting the books during the day. When I finally graduated, I was still doing deliveries, and that’s when I met Sthefany’s mom. From there, the story just flowed. It’s been years of hard work, ups and downs, but it’s all been worth it.
While working with Sthefany’s mom, I started building my own business: a spa that I launched from home. I’ve been laying the groundwork for both my spa and the academy with Sthefany. Juggling two businesses is definitely a challenge, but it’s the best decision I’ve ever made. In one, I get to practice what I love, and in the other, I get to teach what I love. I know it’s all about time and consistency to get where I want to be.
**Creating the Academy:**
Over time, we realized there was a huge gap in beauty education. Many newly graduated estheticians lacked practical knowledge—something I personally experienced. So, we decided to launch our academy. From the get-go, we wanted to do things with a clear purpose. The name of our academy reflects something we’ve learned: everything inside us shows up on our skin. The colors we chose for our academy are inspired by the Fitzpatrick scale, representing the different skin tones because, for us, the skin is a mirror of who we are inside.
In a nutshell, our story is one of passion, dedication, and a deep desire to help others find their way in the beauty world. Sthefany and I believe there’s enough light for everyone to shine. If that weren’t the case, we wouldn’t be so eager to share our knowledge with others.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Both Sthefany and I have faced our fair share of hurdles on our journey to success.
**Ana’s Challenges:**
I grew up in Maracaibo, Venezuela, where I graduated as a civil engineer. After moving to the U.S. at 24, I quickly learned that starting fresh was no walk in the park. I had to hustle hard, taking on jobs like washing dishes and cooking, just to make ends meet. Working as a delivery driver kept me on my toes, but it also sparked my interest in the beauty industry after getting a facial that changed everything for me. Juggling multiple jobs while studying aesthetics was tough—there were nights I barely got any sleep. I also faced the pressure of building my own spa while still learning the ropes. It was a rollercoaster of ups and downs, and I often questioned if I was on the right path.
**Sthefany’s Challenges:**
Sthefany’s journey was no less intense. After relocating to the U.S., she and her husband took on various jobs to stay afloat. Transitioning from her life in Venezuela to this new reality was a challenge in itself. When she decided to revive her mother’s laser hair removal business, she had to deal with the complexities of obtaining a license and navigating a whole new market. Balancing her responsibilities, especially after becoming a mother, tested her resolve. There were moments of self-doubt and uncertainty, but her drive to succeed fueled her determination to make her business thrive.
**Building the Academy:**
When we decided to start our beauty academy, we encountered a whole new set of challenges. We recognized a significant gap in beauty education, especially for fresh graduates lacking hands-on experience. Establishing the academy took a lot of hard work and commitment. We faced logistical issues, financial strains, and the pressure of creating a program that genuinely benefits our students. But through teamwork and our shared passion for beauty, we managed to turn those challenges into stepping stones.
In the end, both of our stories are about resilience and the power of friendship. We’ve learned that every obstacle is an opportunity for growth, and we’re committed to helping others navigate their paths in the beauty industry.
We’ve been impressed with The skin power academy, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
**About Our Business: Beauty Academy**
Our beauty academy is rooted in a passion for enhancing self-confidence and promoting the importance of self-care through skincare education. Together with my partner Sthefany, we created a space where education and practical experience intersect, addressing the beauty industry’s growing demand for skilled professionals.
**What We Do:**
At our academy, we offer comprehensive training programs in aesthetics, focusing specifically on facials and overall skin health. Our curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, ensuring our students graduate fully prepared to excel in their careers. We are accredited by the Commission of Independent Education (CIE), and our academy provides the Facial Specialist license accredited by the DBPR.
**What Sets Us Apart:**
What truly sets us apart is our commitment to education and community. Sthefany and I want our academy to be more than just a place to learn how to perform facials; we aim to develop well-rounded professionals. Our added value in the industry lies in providing all the necessary tools for our students’ growth, including classes on using Instagram as a work tool and business management. We guide them in every aspect to ensure their success.
**What We’re Most Proud Of:**
We are most proud of the strong sense of community we’ve cultivated among our students. Our brand represents empowerment and growth, not just in skills but in confidence. We take pride in our students’ successes and their journeys in the beauty industry. Seeing them flourish is what drives us every day.
**What We Want Readers to Know:**
We want readers to know that our brand is built on passion, resilience, and a genuine desire to uplift others. Whether you’re a student looking to start your career in beauty or someone seeking knowledge in skincare, our academy is here to support you. We’re committed to providing an exceptional educational experience and fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
What does success mean to you?
**What Success Means to Us**
When it comes to success, we believe it’s a personal journey that looks different for everyone. For Sthefany, success is all about hitting those goals. It’s about checking off milestones and feeling that sense of accomplishment as she moves forward in her career and personal life.
For me, Ana, the key to success is living a life doing what I love. It’s about achieving financial freedom so I can enjoy quality time with my family. Being able to spend moments that matter, free from the stress of financial burdens, is what truly defines success for me.
We both understand that success isn’t just a destination; it’s a continuous journey shaped by our passions and the lives we choose to lead. It’s about finding what fulfills us and creating a life that reflects our values.
Pricing:
- Facial specialist license price $4500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.theskinpoweracademy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskinpoweracademy/
Image Credits
@yosoytiz
