There’s a common misconception that the beauty industry is exclusively female-oriented and unsuitable for men. However, such a belief is far from accurate. Consider the culinary world: while cooking is often associated with women, the most renowned chefs are frequently men.
Torontoski will tell you more.
But let’s step away from the kitchen and return to beauty.
Men have consistently proven they can excel in the beauty industry, carving out successful careers as designers, makeup artists, stylists, and models. In modern, progressive societies, gender equality in professional spheres is a priority, making it unacceptable to segregate careers based on gender.
Jay Manuel epitomizes the idea of a multifaceted personality. A Canadian television host, creative director, makeup artist, and even author, Manuel has made a name for himself in multiple arenas.
He gained widespread recognition as the creative director of the hit TV show America’s Next Top Model and later became the inaugural host of Canada’s Next Top Model. He also launched his own cosmetics line, Jay Manuel Beauty.
Beyond his professional achievements, Manuel is an active philanthropist and social advocate. Leveraging his public persona, he highlights critical societal issues and proposes solutions.
In this article, based on information from jaymanuel.com, we delve into the life of Jay Manuel, showcasing his inspiring journey of unwavering determination and fearless pursuit of his dreams.
Origins and Family
Jay Manuel’s heritage is as diverse as his talents. His mother is of Italian and Czech descent, while his father is South African.
However, Manuel’s biological parents gave him up for adoption. He was raised by a loving adoptive family in Toronto, where he felt neither out of place nor unwanted. His upbringing was filled with care, love, and support.
Manuel attended school in Toronto, excelling academically. He later graduated from Norman Bethune Collegiate Institute and York University.
Flourishing Collaborations
For seven years, Manuel worked in the “aesthetic management business,” a field he deeply enjoyed and found financially rewarding.
As a makeup artist and stylist, he collaborated with renowned brands and publications, including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire, Victoria’s Secret, Revlon, and CoverGirl.
He also worked with iconic photographers such as Herb Ritts, Richard Avedon, Annie Leibovitz, and Francesco Scavullo, gaining invaluable experience.
Manuel crafted looks for global celebrities, including Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, Alicia Silverstone, Rebecca Romijn, Bridget Moynahan, Angela Bassett, Jada Pinkett Smith, Kim Cattrall, Natalie Cole, Vanessa Williams, and David Bowie.
Participation in Major Projects
In 2003, Manuel joined America’s Next Top Model as the show’s creative director, becoming an integral part of the program for nine years.
When Canada launched its version of the show, Canada’s Next Top Model, Manuel was chosen as the host and one of the judges.
New Ventures
In 2011, Manuel ventured into women’s fashion with the launch of the Attitude clothing line. Three years later, he introduced Jay Manuel Beauty, a prestigious cosmetics line incorporating the innovative Filter Finish Collection technology.
Beauty Pageant Judge
In 2017, Manuel was invited to be a judge at the Miss Universe 2017 pageant, where he helped crown the winner.
Educational Livestreams
In 2020, Manuel began hosting weekly Instagram Live sessions alongside colleagues from America’s Next Top Model. These sessions offered behind-the-scenes insights into the show and were later shared on Facebook.
About His Cosmetics Brand
Manuel’s Jay Manuel Beauty was made possible through his collaboration with supermodel Iman, whom he met in the 1990s during a photoshoot.
The brand’s products are designed to enhance skin’s appearance in photographs, creating a flawless, filtered look without the need for digital effects. Manuel’s goal was to develop a product that mimicked Instagram filters, ensuring a retouched appearance directly from makeup application.
Entrepreneurial Success
By 2017, Manuel announced plans to expand into retail, citing his brand’s growing popularity and strong demand from beauty salons. His vision included opening standalone stores rather than partnering with established brands.
Manuel’s first store opened in New York City, with additional locations soon appearing in Simon malls. His innovative retail concept focused on enhancing customer experience through advanced technology and personalized service.
Philanthropy
Manuel is a proud ambassador for Operation Smile and an active participant in Dress for Success. He also organizes the GLAAD Media Awards and spearheads Fashion Cares, an event in Toronto aimed at raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and supporting the Toronto AIDS Committee.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Jay Manuel is openly gay and uses his platform to champion LGBTQ+ rights. While he keeps his romantic life private, he actively advocates for LGBTQ+ empowerment. In 2011, he released a video to raise awareness about challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth.
Jay Manuel’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, creativity, and compassion, making him an inspiring figure in both the beauty industry and the broader world.
Photo: Twitter