For the first time, on December 07, 2009, Hilda a Latino women launched a beauty salon in Willmar, Minnesota.  Because of her effort and steady work, Hilda’s dream became a reality. 

Fifteen years ago Hilda completed her cosmetology career and started her own beauty salon.  During those days she would often travel to the United States to visit her late husband and in order that her child could speak the language of his birth place she moved to the United States.  Becoming a single mother after her second marriage ended she relied on the support of her three beautiful children.

Hilda was always focused on becoming a beautician and although she was already a beautician because she received her training in Mexico her license was not valid in the United States.  For that reason, she learned English and got her GED.  Hilda stated, “ I needed to learn English if I wanted a higher education.”  As a result, of her great effort she continued her education, worked, and was a volunteer for the well-being of her three children. 

The decision to enroll in beauty college was not an easy one.  To do so she would have to leave her children with their father while she studied cosmetology.  During the beginning she would travel two hours in the morning and two hours in the evening.  As the months went by and winter arrived, traveling became harder.  Therefore, she decided to rent an apartment with a friend in Minneapolis and visit the children on the weekends. 

While she studied in Minneapolis, Hilda worked in one of the best beauty salons of Edina.  Hilda expressed, “ those are one of my favorite memories of being the only Latina there and yet feeling welcomed.”    After obtaining her license she returned to Willmar and many people were interested in her cosmetology services.  Consequently, she decided to invest all her savings to launch her own beauty salon. 

When Hilda shared her schedule with us she explained that twice a week she volunteers in a nursing home.  With her charisma and enthusiasm she is able to bring the residents happiness. After her two hour commute, Hilda arrives to St. Paul to cut their hair and uplift their spirit.  They wait anxiously for her week after week.  Hilda enjoys very much helping children and senior citizens.