Celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin recently sat down with PEOPLE to share her invaluable advice for female founders. Atkin, who has made a name for herself by styling A-list clients like Hailey Bieber and the Kardashians, is now in a position where she feels compelled to give back. She emphasized the significance of sponsorship and mentorship in her own career, acknowledging that the support she received played a crucial role in her success in the beauty industry.
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Having recently partnered with TJ Maxx’s new You Sponsored program, Atkin is actively involved in uplifting women through sponsorships. The initiative aims to recognise and reward women for being true to themselves. Atkin expressed her gratitude towards TJ Maxx, a brand that has been a part of her life since her early days as an assistant in a salon. As part of the program, ten women will receive custom deals, including funding, connections, and visibility to help further their dreams.
Atkin’s advice to aspiring female entrepreneurs is to take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate their progress. Reflecting on her own journey, Atkin believes in the concept of “having it all” and stresses the importance of maintaining a fulfilling personal life alongside professional accomplishments. She is a firm believer that women can support each other and create a strong network where they uplift and empower one another.
The power of community became evident in Atkin’s life earlier this year when she lost her home in the L.A. wildfires. Moved by the support she received from strangers, especially a group of Seattle moms who compiled a detailed list of resources to help her transition to a new city, Atkin highlighted the inherent kindness and generosity of women supporting each other without hesitation. This experience reinforced her belief in the strength of female solidarity.
Apart from her philanthropic endeavours, Atkin is known for her professional accomplishments, such as launching her haircare line OUAI in 2016 and founding Mane University, a global education resource for hair professionals. Through her partnership with TJ Maxx’s You Sponsored program, Atkin, alongside co-sponsors like Olympic rugby player Ilona Maher and Broadway star Renée Elise Goldsberry, aims to inspire and empower women to pursue their passions and dreams.
At a recent event hosted in New York City, Atkin met her co-sponsors for the first time and discovered an instant connection with them. She spoke about the power of women coming together to support and uplift each other, creating a warm and welcoming environment where their stories and goals could be shared openly. Atkin believes that it is this sense of community and sisterhood among women that fosters growth and empowerment in all aspects of life.
Despite facing challenges like the loss of her home, Atkin remains resilient and optimistic, attributing her strength to the network of women who have shown up for her during difficult times. She continues to inspire and support fellow female founders, encouraging them to embrace their achievements and strive for a balanced and fulfilling life. Jen Atkin’s journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience, collaboration, and female solidarity in overcoming obstacles and achieving success in both personal and professional realms.