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SEARCHThis growing must-attend industry event honors leaders across hair, nails, and wellness while creating opportunities for the next generation.
Pivot Point's Robert Passage and Beauty Changes Lives Founder Lynelle Lynch welcome attendees to the Gala.
Credit: Beauty Changes Lives
Leaders, brands, educators, artists and professionals from across the beauty and wellness industry gathered at the Hyatt Regency Orlando on Saturday, May 30, for the 2026 Beauty Changes Lives Gala, presented by L’Oréal Professional Products Division.
Continuing its evolution into a must-attend event for the beauty and wellness industry, the Gala united the professional community for an evening of connection, artistry, celebration and shared purpose. This year’s event welcomed record attendance and sponsorship, reflecting the continued expansion of Beauty Changes Lives and its ability to serve professionals across the industry.
Sam Villa accepts the Legacy Award for Hair.
Credit: Beauty Changes Lives
“Beauty Changes Lives is about bringing the entire industry together to open doors for the next generation,” said Lisa Roeberg, President and Executive Director of Beauty Changes Lives. “The Gala celebrates the leaders who have shaped our professions while reminding us of our responsibility to support those who will define what comes next. We are deeply grateful to every sponsor, attendee, volunteer, and partner whose support helps fuel education, mentorship, and meaningful career opportunities.”
The evening began with the Gala’s first-ever sponsored cocktail reception, presented by Wella Company.
Sonya Dove shares a laugh with co-host Candy Shaw and Legacy Award Winner Jan Arnold.
Credit: Beauty Changes Lives
Hosted by Candy Shaw and Sonya Dove, with Elizabeth Faye welcoming guests from the White Carpet, the evening celebrated legacy, impact, and the future of the profession.
The 2026 Beauty Changes Lives Legacy Awards recognized three leaders whose careers have transformed their respective sectors through education, innovation, mentorship and service:
Sam Villa, Legacy Award in Hair
Jan Arnold, Legacy Award in Nails
Marti Morenings, Legacy Award in Wellness
Jan Arnold accepts the Legacy Award for Nails.
Credit: Beauty Changes Lives
Honoring leaders across hair, nails, and wellness reflects Beauty Changes Lives’ commitment to serving the full spectrum of beauty and wellness careers.
The evening also highlighted the next generation of professionals, including Ulta Beauty scholarship recipient Cherea Scotland, whose journey reflects the opportunities made possible through industry support.
The celebration concluded with an industry-wide after-party presented by Jan Arnold, featuring extraordinary artistry, entertainment, and celebration.
Edwin Neill with Sonya Doves raises his paddle to donate to Beauty Changes Lives Scholarships.
Credit: Beauty Changes Lives
Earlier that day, the invitation-only Beauty Changes Lives Industry Leader Roundtable convened executives and thought leaders from across the industry for a discussion focused on leading transformational change and defining the future of beauty and wellness.
Beauty Changes Lives extends its gratitude to Presenting Sponsor L’Oréal Professional Products Division, Cocktail Reception Sponsor Wella Company, AfterParty Sponsor Jan Arnold, and the many partners whose support fuels scholarships, mentorship, and career opportunities.
The living dessert table readies herself for the After Party.
Credit: Beauty Changes Lives
Beauty Changes Lives is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to making careers in beauty and wellness a first choice. As the #1 resource for scholarships, Beauty Changes Lives awards over $500,000 annually to aspiring professionals. Through its scholarship, mentorship, advanced education, and career resource programs, Beauty Changes Lives is empowering the next generation of professionals and elevating the industry. To get involved or make a donation, please visit beautychangeslives.org
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