Salem, Ohio (WKBN) — Students find a way to turn their school projects and passion for the beauty industry into something bigger.
Mahoning County Career and Technical Center student Riley Altman, 17, is the founder of her own cosmetics company, Beauty Freak.
“My inspiration has been to create a community of women, inspire them, and help them find their confidence,” says Altman.
As an MCCTC cosmetology student, she pitched her business idea in a “Shark Tank” competition and won.
“Ever since I was little, I’ve always loved doing my mom’s hair and doing her makeup. I love the experience,” says Altman. “I love creating ideas for makeup looks and stuff like that.”
Altman says she keeps everything natural and cruelty-free, which she calls “confidence-boosting.”
“One of my big goals is to help women, create a community of women, and inspire others. Because I want you to feel it.
Altman’s Beauty Freak items will soon be available at Supplement Stations in Salem, along with treats, crafts, supplements, and more. Altman said at this young age, it’s a big step for her company and she’s excited about the deal.
“I was a little nervous to compete, but I learned the whole time.
But Altman’s dreams for Beauty Freak’s future don’t stop there.
“My future goal is to see myself in a big brand store like Ulta or Sephora and see my display there. I think that’s pretty cool,” she says.
Altman plans to graduate from MCCTC this spring and continue building her brand.
