Daily Inspiration: Meet Nia Alexandra

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Nia Alexandra.

Hi Nia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My name is Nia, and I am known professionally as FACED BY NIA. I am a dedicated makeup artist, instructor, and salon manager at the Makeup Institute. My journey into the world of cosmetics began somewhat randomly during a retail stint in cosmetics.

Despite my initial shyness, I found immense joy in doing makeup for others, which quickly blossomed into a fulfilling career. This passion and dedication have been recognized. I was nominated for Makeup Artist of the Year at the Cleveland Industry Award show in 2023, an honor I received with only a couple of years of experience under my belt.

I am ambitious and resilient, always finding a way to see the best in a terrible situation. I firmly believe that no matter the challenge, I will come out on top and bring my loved ones along with me. This positive outlook and determination have been key drivers in my personal and professional life.

The encouragement and unwavering support of my parents have been instrumental in my journey. They instilled in me from a young age the belief that with hard work and dedication, I could achieve anything I set my mind to. This mindset has not only driven my career but also shaped my approach to life.

Beyond my professional pursuits, I have a deep appreciation for continued education and am always eager to expand my knowledge and skills. Reading is another passion of mine; even if I currently do not have as much time to do so, I enjoy how it allows me to explore diverse worlds and perspectives.

Above all, spending quality time with my loved ones is what I cherish the most. These moments of connection and shared experiences are the cornerstone of my happiness, grounding me and reminding me of what truly matters.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road? If not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’d argue that my feelings of imposter syndrome have gotten in my own way. I was reserved and hesitant to interact with clients when I began my career. It took a lot of self-encouragement and practice to build my confidence and develop my skills in a way that made me feel comfortable.

The pressure to prove myself and stand out among more experienced professionals was intense, but it also pushed me to continuously improve. Balancing my roles as a makeup artist, instructor, and salon manager has also been challenging.

Juggling these responsibilities and school full-time requires time management and a constant commitment to excellence in each area, something I am still actively learning and growing toward. There have been times when the workload felt overwhelming, but my ambition and determination have always driven me forward.

I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in a variety of makeup styles, from everyday looks to bridal, and I dabble in editorials when requested. I’m known for my particular natural makeup style, which my clients state is “breathable,” and they still “feel like themselves”.

Teaching aspiring makeup artists is incredibly rewarding, and I’m proud to be a small part of their journey. What sets me apart is my resilience. I don’t expect to blow up overnight, nor do I want a “microwave career” with zero longevity.

I understand that getting where I aspire to be will take time, and I’m willing to put in the work, full stop.

What do you think about happiness?
What makes me happy is the blend of my passions and personal life. I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many amazing people—clients who have become friends and creatives with whom I’ve collaborated. There was a brief period where I lost myself, whether due to being young and misguided or thinking I knew better when I didn’t.

Thankfully, my family and friends recognized this and helped me rebuild myself even better than before. One of my love languages is quality time, so spending time with people I value and who value me is key to my happiness. I cherish any opportunity to be surrounded by loved ones who support and uplift me.

Traveling has also become a significant focus, as I love experiencing new people and places whenever I have the time.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://niaalexandra.as.me/schedule/472b307e
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nia.alexandra/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niascottcle/

Image Credits
@cameronshizzle