At The Salon Professional Academy in Maplewood, Minnesota, education goes far beyond the classroom. Recently, owners Julie and Cortney traveled to Guatemala for their second Global Stylist Scholarship mission trip, bringing hands-on hair education and heart-led service to communities eager to learn new skills and build brighter futures.
As leaders of a cosmetology school in Minnesota, Julie and Cortney believe the beauty industry has the power to change lives—not only through careers, but through confidence, connection, and opportunity.
One Industry. One Mission.
The Global Stylist mission focuses on providing skill-based beauty education to individuals who want to learn professional hair techniques and create opportunities for themselves and their communities.
During the trip to Guatemala, the team worked directly with aspiring beauty professionals, teaching haircutting skills and foundational techniques while encouraging creativity, self-confidence, and personal growth.
The mission wasn’t just about haircuts.
It was about building confidence, creating connections, and reminding people that they are seen, valued, and capable of achieving their dreams.
The Impact in Guatemala
The results of this mission trip were truly inspiring:
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26 students graduated from the program
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A student-led community give-back event was organized
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Free haircuts were provided to local families in the community
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Lives were empowered through skill-based education
For many participants, learning professional haircutting skills opens the door to career opportunities, financial independence, and a brighter future.
Each haircut and each lesson represented something much bigger—a pathway to possibility.
The Power of Collaboration
This meaningful project exemplified the power of collaboration within the beauty industry.
By partnering with Kids-N-Missions, the team was able to expand their reach and impact throughout the community in Guatemala. The organization’s dedication to serving families and supporting education made it possible for the Global Stylist team to bring meaningful training and services to those who needed it most.
Julie and Cortney also shared heartfelt gratitude for Gail and Elton Wells, whose hospitality and support made the mission truly unforgettable. From welcoming the team with open hearts to helping coordinate details on the ground, their generosity played a vital role in the success of the trip.
Transforming Lives Through Beauty Education
At The Salon Professional Academy Maplewood, students learn that the beauty industry is about much more than hair, skincare, or wellness services.
It is about empowering people and creating opportunities.
Skills learned in a cosmetology program can open doors locally and around the world. Experiences like the Global Stylist mission remind us that the beauty industry holds incredible power to uplift communities and transform lives.
As a beauty school serving Maplewood, Minnesota and the greater Twin Cities area, The Salon Professional Academy is proud to help educate future professionals who are passionate about making a difference.
Thank You to Our Supporters
This mission was made possible by the generosity and encouragement of sponsors, donors, and supporters who believe in the power of education and service.
Every contribution mattered.
Every word of encouragement mattered.
Every act of support helped invest in confidence, dreams, and futures that are already beginning to unfold.
Together, we are proving that when the beauty industry comes together with one mission, transformation is possible.
And this is only the beginning.
