Though she has been working in the beauty industry for more than 20 years, Elaine Sterling may not be a household name, but she is a living testament that beauty changes lives.

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In 2008, Elaine founded The Elaine Sterling Institute (ESI) with six students and a credit card. A single mom of two and cancer survivor, Elaine created what has become a globally recognized center of learning in the esthetics education industry. Now up to 500 students, Elaine has captured the past 16 years of struggle, knowledge, and experience in her debut book, Beauty Beyond the Mirror, a roadmap to success.

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Without any formal business training or college education, Elaine relied on her street smarts and ability to learn quickly to get the institute up and running. Her philosophy was to tap into talent and help convert their skill into prosperity. Considering the beauty industry's global worth of more than $500 billion, there has been significant opportunity for her students.

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Many of her students, who hail from all over the world, have come from difficult backgrounds, have faced homelessness and abusive environments. With scholarship programs offered through several organizations, ESI has been instrumental in helping to break cycles of family poverty. The school also offers financial aid to those who qualify, VA benefits, and international students can apply for the M1 student Visa program. developed.

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A licensed esthetician and esthetician instructor, Elaine holds international diplomas and is internationally trained and certified as a Beauty Therapist (LE, LEI, CIDESCO Diplomat, and ITEC). She is a noted speaker in the beauty industry and launched her award-winning corrective skincare line, Elaine Sterling Skincare, in 2008.

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Elaine is a native of Port Elizabeth, South Africa and has lived in England, Australia, Taiwan, Detroit, and Atlanta. Her involvement in the philanthropic community is vast.  She has supported charities such as The Elios Charitable Foundation, Atlanta Community Food Bank, Lost ‘n Found Youth, Flora Ann’s House, The Drake House, Bethany Christian Services, My Sister’s House, Atlanta Needs Help, and many more.