TGIF, Cowes!
Today, we shine light on Olga, owner and operator of Rebel + Beauty.
Give us your elevator pitch — tell us a bit about yourself. We want to know what you’re all about.
I’m Olga also known as OG owner and Operator of Rebel + Beauty. It is a safe space where we create the art of beauty and self-expression.
#Local Love is all about showing love to bad-ass bosses like yourself. Can you share with us what you do for work and how you make an impact?
Rebel + Beauty – R + B extends many services’ which include but not limited to; Eyebrow Shaping, Microblading, Lash Lifts, Tints and Lamination, Make-up applications for special events, Education and Training etc. R + B also exhibits artistry from Toronto’s very own talent. R + B has been blessed to show case young and upcoming clothing designers’, jewelry creators, sketch and third artists in addition to an architect of organic wellness products.
It is super important for me to give back to the community. It is imperative that we create opportunities for those to express themselves through their passion. Artistry whether it is expressed through make-up, tattoos, paint or sketching allows us to impact politics, culture and people. When thinking of a name for my business Rebel + Beauty resonated with me as I want people to have that freedom of expression. It is okay to color outside of the lines that is what creates the uniqueness the beauty of this world.
How did you get into this line of work?
I have always had a passion for make-up, fashion and beauty. Now that I am older I now recognize it was really about creativity and self-expression. I’m originally from Calgary and one of my mentors, Geeta Khanna, a make-up artist moved to NYC to pursue her dreams. She really inspired me to move out of my comfort zone and I moved to Montreal and later on to Toronto. I worked in boutique environments as well as for large corporations. I am happy to have had those experiences as it taught me that I don’t want to be a cookie cutter, that I am unique and that is why the same customers kept coming back to me for services. It was not the brand name attached to the stores, it was really about me providing the experience. It’s strange but I have been told that I have healing hands. People really appreciate being taken care of in a safe non-judgemental space.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given (career or otherwise)?
WE are all a little scared! Do It anyways!
How about the worst?
I think the worst advice I’ve received was maybe not directed towards me, but had to do with the fear that others were projecting to me. Multiple people have given unwarranted advice based on their own fears and own demons. If I listened to the amount of people that didn’t believe in my vision or dream, I wouldn’t have leaped and been on the journey I am today
If you could paint your ideal life, what would that look like in 5-10 years from now?
I’m not sure what the universe has written for me but I want to ensure I’m simply living to my fullest potential when It comes to my personal journey. Things change, plans change and I want to be open to that… IN the meantime however, I can’t wait to get an AMAZING Rebel+Beauty NYC up and going. From there London, and then Dubai. I want to be able to create top of the notch beauty shops with dope, fun, creative environments for females to thrive in!
What are your favourite resources that you’ve come across over the years (e.g., email extensions, design apps etc.)?
I love the rituals of waking up, doing my makeup and listening to my favourite podcasts. I love listening to
- Icing and Glitter: whether it’s business, beauty, diet, or travel, her attitude is contagious and she makes me a better person lol!
- Oprah: Super Soul Sundays: I feel like when I listen to her I am able to settle my soul or take the time to be extra gentle or kind to myself AND others which is SO necessary
- Honest, real, raw conversations with other females, entrepreneurs, mentors and boss babes keep me inspired and on my game. Knowing there is a team around me that just wants me to shine, and I want the same for them allows for real inspo, and heightened creativity
Who are 3 of your favourite Canadian entrepreneurs that our readers should absolutely be in the know about?
Marie Eve Faucher of Hidden Gem Hair Stuff: Super knowledgeable, leads her business and doing hair with integrity.
Caitlin Power, Canadian Designer: strives in Importance of having Canadian manufactured products and is super talented in her classic dresses as wella s her edgy streetwear
Hannah Nakawatase of Cucci.Cucci.Cucci: Super fun and cool Women’s Cannabis/CBD empowerment company
See more #LocalLove here.
xx
The Cowe