Mia Secret has partnered with Trade-Works Foundation, a nonprofit organization that imparts disadvantaged youth with the skills required to create a prosperous living in cosmetology. Founded by celebrity hairstylist Andrea Pezzillo, her goal was to share her skills and give back by providing others the opportunity for growth and success.
This year’s workshop took place in Jamaica, and it catered to students living in some of the toughest neighborhoods in the area, many of whom grapple with literacy and a sense of being left behind. The intensive Cosmetology and Nail Tech Workshop focused on barbering, cosmetology and nail technology, with Mia Secret donating nail products and tools to supplement the students’ learning.
We sat down with Pezzillo to tell us more about her amazing foundation, as well as celebrity nail artist Julie Kandalec, who not only donates her time with Trade-Works, but also led the nail training in Jamaica.
Mia Secret: What is Trade-Works and how did it begin?
Andrea Pezzillo: I started this charity as a hairstylist wanting to give back. We focus on teaching creative skilled trades by partnering with schools to provide workshops and hands-on training. Our work is centered on empowering youth who come from extreme poverty and unfortunate circumstances. We firmly believe in their potential for success, and we are committed to being a catalyst for change in their lives. Through our programs we not only teach essential skills, but we also supply the necessary tools and resources for them to earn a living. Our ultimate goal is to instill a sense of belief and confidence in each participant’s abilities. Our volunteers play a crucial role in this process as they share their own successes and prove that it’s possible to overcome obstacles and thrive.
MS: Who benefits from Trade-Works?
AP: We focus our programs primarily on young people ages 15-20, although we also extend our support to older students facing challenging circumstances. Our inclusive approach ensures that those who truly need our assistance receive it, regardless of age. Through our workshops, we equip students with valuable skills and knowledge that can lead to self-sustainability. And with our scholarships and paid internships we provide life-changing opportunities that open doors to a brighter future, beyond the limitations of their communities.
However, our impact doesn’t stop there. All the dedicated volunteers are an essential part of our organization, and they too reap the benefits of partnering with Trade-Works. By offering their time, skills, finances and expertise, they play a pivotal role in empowering the youth we serve. Not only do they give back to the community, but they also get a chance to immerse themselves in a different culture, forge meaningful connections and expand their own knowledge as they teach.
MS: What does the nail training look like?
AP: Our training workshops as a whole span across Jamaica with three different schools in three different parishes. Held during the summer for two weeks, these workshops teach various creative trades, with this year’s focus on barbering, cosmetology and nails.
For the cosmetology and nail training workshops, we partner with a school in Westmoreland, Jamaica. This institution was originally founded to provide housing and trade education to women off the streets. Over the years, it has expanded its offerings and now supports a wider range of students and skills.
The nail workshop was led by the amazingly talented and generous Julie Kandalec, and it covered a wide array of essential topics, including sanitation and disinfection; mastering the differences between different nail enhancements; and much more. Our curriculum aims to ensure the students are well versed in all aspects of nail technology. 
Julie Kandalec: The nail training is a very intense two full days! First, we go over business skills, as well as sanitation and disinfection, and the difference between the different types of nail products and services. Then we move into a hands-on training. I start with a polish and hand massage demo, and the students work on each other to get the feel for massage techniques and practice their skills at polishing.
The second day we gift everyone nail kits. We set everything up so when they walk in it’s all displayed for them. They never expect this, and they’re always so surprised! Then we walk the students through what every product is and how it works. Students again pair up as I go over every step of a manicure service and they practice on each other. The team is always on hand to give students pointers and provide help.
Then it’s nail art time! The Mia Secret metallic flakes, glitter and transfer foil were a huge hit because not only are they gorgeous, but no one else has things like this in Jamaica! It’s such an easy way for the students to offer clients an add-on service, while also being fast and super simple for artists at any level.
AP: Thanks to the support of partners like Mia Secret, the nail workshop continues to evolve and improve. This year, the students had the opportunity to explore nail art and design, which added a fun and creative element to their learning experience. The nail wheels that Mia Secret provided were also a tremendous hit, allowing the students to showcase their skills and designs to potential clients.
At the end of the workshop, each student left with a full tool kit, personalized business cards, a six-week continued training program and a graduation certificate.
MS: How can other nail professionals get involved with Trade-Works?
AP: We invite all professionals to reach out! Follow us on Instagram (@tradeworksfoundation) and fill out the volunteer application on trade-works.org/volunteer. Even if you’re not able to attend a trip, we have so many other areas of service that can be done remotely. We love and welcome all of the support!
MS: Any last thoughts?
AP: We are just grateful for the opportunity to be part of these journeys and to witness the positive changes in the lives of the youth. These success stories serve as a reminder of the impact that education, support and belief can have on young lives; they motivate us to continue our mission of inspiring and uplifting the next generation in Jamaica. I love that we can do this together as an industry, from corporation to individual, and come together for a better future!