During lockdown, I had the incredible opportunity to lead a DEI session with the president of Estée Lauder and the leaders of their global brands. It was a rare and inspiring moment to discuss inclusion and representation directly with decision-makers, exploring how brands can authentically reflect diverse identities in beauty.

The conversation spanned everything from trans visibility and LGBTQ+ representation to creating inclusive campaigns that resonate across audiences. Sharing my experiences as a transgender artist and educator, I emphasized that real inclusivity starts with listening, learning, and embedding diversity into the very fabric of brand strategy.

It was an honor to see how open and engaged the leadership team was, and it reinforced my belief that meaningful change comes from dialogue, education, and a commitment to challenge outdated norms. Moments like these are reminders of why DEI work in the beauty industry is not just important—it’s transformative.