Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jessie Santiago. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Jessie , appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?
My resilience comes from the complexity of being a queer woman of color. Despite facing attempts to diminish me, I find strength in my diverse identity. I’m challenged by societal norms but find power in embracing who I am. I draw strength from supportive communities, inspired by past trailblazers. Self-love fuels my resilience, asserting my worth in a society that marginalizes me. Overall, my resilience is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Benders Collective is my creation. Inspired by the 18th-century salon concept of raw human connection in someone’s home but with a modern twist. It’s my fresh take on Hair, Art, Healing, and Community—a sanctuary where creativity thrives outside the constraints of capitalism. Imagine a space where all these modalities seamlessly merge, fostering genuine connections and relationships. Many people have tried to appropriate or change my vision rather than appreciate it for what it was always meant to be. I almost allowed it to happen.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
1. Courage to Break Boundaries:
– Embrace courage to defy societal norms and forge a path true to yourself.
– Cultivate resilience in adversity and see uniqueness as revolutionary.
– Seek support from understanding communities and learn from unconventional paths.
2. Creative Fusion of Talents:
– Blend diverse talents into something uniquely yours.
– Explore intersections of skills, embracing curiosity and experimentation.
– Recognize the magic in combining seemingly unrelated talents.
3. Connection and Community Building:
– Foster genuine connections and community.
– Prioritize authentic relationships aligned with your values.
– Seek mentorship and shared experiences for support and growth.
My Advice: In the early stages of your journey, prioritize building authentic relationships within communities aligned with your values. Actively contribute to these spaces and seek mentorship from those with similar experiences. Remember, growth is nonlinear; embrace the learning process and embody the qualities that guide you. Surround yourself with diverse perspectives and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Stay true to your values and paint your journey with strokes of authenticity.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
I love this question: I’m drawn to individuals who deeply resonate with the essence of my art and culture. Folks who have a profound sense of courage and openness, eagerly embracing journeys of self-discovery. They exhibit a curiosity that fuels exploration of new realms, whether through art, conversation or healing practices. They value authenticity, understanding its power in fostering genuine connections. People who challenge societal expectations to honor their unique identity. I love people committed to personal growth and realize that transformation is an ongoing process. I want clients that cherish the sense of community and connection, appreciating collaboration and mutual support. Ultimately, my ideal client seeks sanctuary not merely as a place for services but as a space to bring their heart and curious mind, thereby contributing to the magic of both their life, my life and the universe at large.
Contact Info:
- Website: salonbenders.com
- Instagram: salonbenders
- Linkedin: salonbenders
- Youtube: salonbenders
- Other: Tiktok: salon benders
