We met with Jerry Lopez. We had to name the international stylist and make up artist in our first interview where we named Peruvian talents.

Always on the go, with a full schedule, but with time for friends. This is Jerry who, with his talent and simplicity, has crossed borders and conquered markets as complex as the Big Apple.

Camaleónicas: You are very cosmopolitan. What drives you to reconnect with Peru and now live between two countries?

Jerry Lopez: I live between two large, very cosmopolitan cities like New York and Lima. I have the ability to travel constantly for my profession, styling. Hairdressing and makeup allow me to meet new opportunities and also have an organized agenda with new clients, girlfriends or events.

On the one hand, Peru is a country rich in culture, history, and diversity, and there are many reasons why someone like me might feel connected to it. For some people, it may be their country of origin, their place of birth, or the country where they grew up. Other people may feel a connection to Peru because of their family heritage, cultural ties, or interest in Peruvian history and culture.

In summary, the connection with New York and Lima drives me because of my personal history, cultural ties, interest in culture and history, among other factors. Living in two countries can be an enriching experience that gives me the opportunity to broaden my career and explore different cultures and ways of life.

C: What do you feel is your style, by which people recognize you?

JL: As a beauty artist, my style is based on the ability to understand and create in a personalized way according to each need and according to the personality or lifestyle, which influences a wide variety of techniques.

I could say that my style is intelligent, practical, and current with personality. Cuts with movements, healthy and shiny hair with three-dimensional or hybrid colors and modern, avant-garde makeup with its own personality. I like to create, experiment, play with colors, textures and light. Like an artist when he creates a work of art. My main objective is to listen, understand and provide current information on what is happening in the world of hairdressing, makeup and also fashion because they go hand in hand, and help each case with results.

C: Your work and your dedication are inspiring. What would you say to people who want to dedicate themselves professionally to the field of beauty?

JL: Thank you for your words! If someone wants to dedicate themselves professionally to the field of beauty, they must study and train. Beauty is a field in constant evolution, it is important to acquire updated knowledge and cutting-edge techniques.

Practice and hone your skills. Constant practice is essential to improve and stand out in the field of beauty. Intern with friends, family, or even look for volunteer opportunities at local events to gain hands-on experience.

Find your specialty. Beauty encompasses many aspects, from makeup to skin care and hair styling. Identify which area you are most passionate about and in which you want to excel. Focusing on one specialty will allow you to hone your skills and become an expert in that specific field.

Build a network of contacts. The beauty industry is built on relationships and connections. Meet other professionals in the field, attend events and fairs, join online groups and participate in communities related to beauty. Building a strong network will provide you with learning opportunities, collaborations, and potential clients.

Stay updated. The beauty industry is constantly changing, with new trends, products and technologies emerging. Stay up to date with the latest news and advances. Follow industry leaders, read trade magazines, attend conferences, and take refresher courses to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.

Develop business skills. If you intend to start your own business in the beauty field, it is important that you acquire entrepreneurial skills. Learn about management, marketing, accounting and customer service. These skills will help you manage and grow your business effectively.

Be passionate and persevering. The path to success in any industry requires passion and perseverance. The beauty industry can be competitive and challenging, but if you are truly passionate about what you do and are willing to work hard, you will be able to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.

Remember that each person has their own path in the beauty industry. Keep an open mind, keep learning, and never stop believing in yourself.

“To whoever reads this, I wish you much success in your career in the beauty field!” -Jerry Lopez

C: At the same time, your career has taken you to great spaces in international fashion. What else would you like to do? What new projects do you have?

JL: First I thank God for all the opportunities that my profession in my career has given me since my beginnings and always for all the great experiences accumulated and to come. It’s called struggle, effort and entrepreneurship.

I want to always keep working on new high-profile projects. Also focus for the moment on makeup for Brides, marriages or grand galas in Lima, New York or where a bride gets married, or the event to be held that hires my services as a stylist and makeup artist.

Create my own online beauty space and offer virtual and personal courses, maintaining a base of new loyal customers. Becoming a trainer, instructor and sharing my knowledge and experience, for new students of beauty academies or styling schools. I want to teach classes on haircuts, coloring techniques and makeup, sharing my background and experience with enthusiastic students.

I am exploring new international opportunities due to my experience in different cities and countries in the world of beauty and fashion. I am also doing research and continue to learn from companies related to hair and makeup products who are interested in my experience.

I know that the key to stay busy and keep traveling is to be open to new opportunities and to keep updating and connecting on the latest trends and techniques, thus the realization of all my future projects.

C: You know that the road has not been easy, but it has been very fruitful. What advice would you give to people who are afraid of migrating?

JL: I understand that migrating can be a challenging and uncertain experience. If someone is afraid of migrating, I advise them to do their research and prepare first. Learn as much as you can about the country or region to which you plan to migrate. Research immigration laws, job opportunities, the education system, and local culture. The more information you have, the more confident you will feel in making the decision.

Connect with people who have already migrated. Search for migrant communities online or in your local area. Talk to people who have been through a similar process and listen to their stories and advice. They can give you a realistic perspective and share their personal experience, which can help you overcome your fears.

Set clear and realistic goals. Define your clear goals for the migration. Why do you want to move? What do you hope to achieve? Setting realistic and achievable goals will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the process.

Create a support network. Before you migrate, try to connect with people in the destination country. This could include friends, family, or even social media groups. Having a support network can bring you emotional and practical comfort during challenges you may face.

Learn the language. If you are migrating to a country with a different language than yours, make an effort to learn it. Mastering the local language will help you communicate better, integrate more easily and increase your job opportunities.

Seek professional advice. Consult with an immigration expert or an attorney specializing in immigration law. They will be able to provide you with accurate and updated information, as well as guide you throughout the immigration process.

Keep a positive mindset: Migration can be challenging, but try to keep a positive mindset. Focus on the opportunities and experiences you can get by migrating. Remember that each challenge overcome will make you stronger and bring you closer to your goals.

“Remember that fear is natural when we face the unknown.” – Jerry Lopez

Credits: Main picture: Michael Creagh / Vanessa Lenz Neithardt / David Matthew Walters