Can NYC Makeup Artist Transform Public Schools with Glamour and Beauty Services?

Alani Thompson, a self-made makeup artist from Brooklyn, is set to transform the beauty landscape for students in New York City. As an official vendor for the city Department of Education (DOE), she aims to provide makeup services directly to schools, helping students enhance their confidence for special events like proms. While her venture has garnered interest, it also raises questions about regulations and the educational value of such services.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Alani Thompson offers makeup services to NYC students through her business, "Beat by Lani."
• Her goal is to boost students' confidence, particularly before events like prom.
• Thompson is not yet a licensed esthetician, which is necessary for charging fees for makeup application.
• She plans to enrol in a cosmetology school this fall to gain the required credentials.
• The DOE confirms her vendor status but clarifies it does not imply an endorsement.

A New Era for Beauty in Education

Thompson's innovative approach brings a fresh perspective to beauty services in educational settings. By making makeup accessible in schools, she hopes to empower young students, particularly girls, to embrace their beauty and express their individuality. This initiative is especially significant in the context of proms and graduations—occasions often laden with expectations and pressure regarding appearance.

Alani Thompson's Journey

Growing up in Brooklyn, Thompson discovered her passion for makeup during her time at Midwood High School. She began by doing makeup for classmates during talent shows and theatrical productions. This early experience laid the groundwork for her future career.

While pursuing a biology degree at the College of Staten Island, she worked in Macy's cosmetics department, where she honed her skills. However, her aspirations shifted when she realised her true calling lay in makeup artistry. She established her business, "Beat by Lani," focusing on weddings, graduations, and proms, primarily catering to Black clients.

The Impact of Makeup on Confidence

Thompson believes that makeup can be a transformative tool, particularly for young women. She has observed that when girls come in for makeup, their confidence often skyrockets once they see the final result. “The girls would bring their mums, who are trying to help them break out of their shell, all nervous and shy. But once the makeup is done, they’re on their phones taking pictures and videos – the confidence just goes up,” she explained.

Services Offered and Pricing

Thompson's services are designed to cater to various needs within schools. Her hourly rates range from £75 to £150, depending on the number of students. For workshops, the pricing structure is as follows:

• Half-day workshop (2-4 hours): £250 - £500
• Full-day workshop (5-7 hours): £600 - £1,000

These prices include supplies and tools for hands-on demonstrations, making her services both accessible and educational. However, the question remains whether these workshops provide sufficient educational value, particularly in light of her current unlicensed status.

The Licensing Question

While Thompson is passionate about her craft, she currently lacks the necessary state licensure as an esthetician. In New York, anyone charging fees for makeup application must complete a 600-hour approved course and pass both written and practical exams. Thompson has expressed her intention to enrol in a local cosmetology school this fall, which would enable her to gain the required credentials and expand her business legally.

Potential Benefits for Students with Disabilities

Thompson's services could also provide significant benefits for students with disabilities. Donalda Chumney, a former Manhattan superintendent, noted that such enrichment could enhance the daily-living curriculum and provide joy during prom and graduation festivities. However, she emphasised that any adult interacting with students must be properly licensed, underscoring the importance of regulatory compliance in educational settings.

Challenges Ahead

While Thompson's announcement has sparked interest, it has also raised concerns among educators and administrators. Although the DOE has confirmed her vendor status, they clarified that this does not equate to an endorsement or affiliation with the public schools. Principals must ensure that any programmes introduced have genuine educational value and comply with all relevant regulations.

Looking Forward

As Alani Thompson moves forward with her business, the coming months will be crucial. Her eventual enrolment in cosmetology school is a significant step towards legitimising her services. Moreover, her ability to secure contracts with schools will depend on demonstrating the educational merits of her workshops.

Thompson's journey is a testament to the evolving nature of beauty and education. By integrating makeup artistry into the school system, she aims to foster self-esteem and confidence among students while paving the way for potential career paths in cosmetology.

FAQs

What services does Alani Thompson offer to students?

Alani Thompson provides makeup services directly to schools, focusing on helping students prepare for special events like proms. She also offers workshops to teach makeup techniques.

Is Alani Thompson licensed to provide these services?

No, Alani Thompson is currently not a licensed esthetician but plans to enrol in a cosmetology school this fall to obtain the necessary licensure.

What are the costs associated with her services?

Thompson's fees range from £75 to £150 per hour, with workshop prices between £250 and £1,000 depending on the duration and number of participants.

How can schools benefit from Thompson's services?

Thompson's services can enhance students' self-esteem and confidence, particularly during events like proms. They may also provide valuable insights into cosmetology as a career path.

What regulations must be followed when hiring outside vendors in schools?

Schools must ensure that any outside vendor provides educational value and that individuals interacting with students are properly licensed according to state regulations.

As Alani Thompson embarks on this exciting venture, the intersection of beauty, education, and empowerment stands to create opportunities for many students. How will this shift in approach influence self-esteem and career aspirations among young learners? #MakeupEducation #Empowerment #BeautyInSchools