Mei-Lon Jimenez

Mei-Lon’s business has always been inseparable from the notions of diversity and inclusion. Growing up as a woman of color, she became familiar with the frustrations of exclusion and homogeneity. She transitioned from being a minority in her interest areas (math and science), to more of the same in her major (biology), to recognizing herself as the only woman in a boardroom: something she “has always been used to in her professional career.” None of these adversities ever held Mei-Lon back. She recognizes the power of an unapologetically confident woman, especially when underestimated. That’s why in her career she has ceaselessly worked as a champion of diversity and inclusion. In fact, her professional endeavors have always had diversity and inclusion prominent within their stitching. She is part of Women in Retail, as well as other women’s entrepreneur groups where she learns from and inspires other women. She volunteers her time speaking at events meant to empower young girls and women alike to embrace their differences and be leaders in their various industries. Her and her sister, Toni, have volunteered at over 300 middle schools as partners with the nonprofit Girls Inc., getting invited because the schools wanted their students to see someone “like them” making a difference and finding success. Finally, Mei-Lon co-founded her current business, Chica Beauty, with her sister, Toni, because they wanted to revolutionize the beauty industry with a brand that screams diversity and inclusion – something that they found was missing in the beauty industry’s current environment. As a Latina CEO, founder and business-woman, Mei-Lon feels proud to represent the change she wishes to see in the world. 

The foundation of Mei-Lon’s current business, Chica Beauty, is the mission of empowering women to be their authentic selves through simplicity, real beauty and giving back to the community. Her team is made up of individuals of different ethnicities, genders, backgrounds and generations. While she grew up primarily in Texas, Mei-Lon was born in East LA, and part of what inspires her to be a champion of diversity and inclusion is this history. She loves Los Angeles for being a melting pot of thousands of different communities, all while individuality is promoted and honored. She is proud to live in Los Angeles now and to have a business here, where her values are matched on every corner.