We recently connected with Daneira Zuniga Sandoval and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Daneira thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
It all started when I was about 12 years old. I remember being completely fascinated by hairstyles and how they could transform someone’s look. I’d spend hours teaching myself how to braid my own hair, especially cornrows, which were my favorite. It wasn’t easy at first, but I was determined. I’d sit in front of the mirror, redoing a section over and over until it was just right.
Once I felt confident, I started practicing on my close friends. They trusted me, and I loved the feeling of creating something beautiful for them. It was more than just a hairstyle—it was a way to express creativity and make them feel special.
Looking back, those hours of trial and error, along with the excitement of mastering new techniques, planted the seed for my passion. Even then, I knew there was something magical about working with hair and making people feel good about themselves. It felt natural, like I had found something I was meant to do.
Daneira , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I was raised in Nebraska and moved to Colorado eight years ago, which has been a transformative chapter of my life. In 2022, I decided to take a leap of faith and pursue my passion for hair by enrolling at Pickens Technical College. It’s been the best decision I’ve ever made. I’m set to graduate in May 2025 with my cosmetology license, and I’m incredibly proud of the journey so far.
Throughout school, I’ve maintained a 3.9 GPA, which reflects my dedication and hard work. One of my proudest moments was representing my school at the Skills State Competition for Colorado, where I placed second overall. The experience was unforgettable and has fueled my determination to aim for first place this year.
What sets me apart is my approach to the client experience. My chair is more than a place to get your hair done—it’s a safe, inclusive space where everyone is seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are. I listen carefully to my clients’ needs and make sure they leave feeling confident and cared for.
I’m deeply passionate about color and have dedicated countless hours to mastering the art of it. I stay on top of trends and take additional education to ensure I’m delivering the best results. My specialties are color correction and balayage, techniques that allow me to enhance natural beauty and create transformative looks.
I want my clients to know that behind every service is someone who genuinely loves what they do and is committed to making them feel amazing. Whether it’s a subtle refresh or a bold new look, I’m here to bring their vision to life.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My creative journey is driven by a simple yet powerful mission: to make my clients feel amazing. I want every person who sits in my chair to know they are in the hands of someone who genuinely loves what they do. Whether it’s a subtle refresh or a bold transformation, my goal is to bring my clients’ vision to life while ensuring they feel seen, heard, and confident.
Beyond that, I have a dream of one day owning my own salon—a space where creativity and inclusivity thrive. I envision a place where clients feel at home and where stylists are empowered to grow and express their artistry. It’s a long-term goal, but it’s one I work toward every day through my education, practice, and commitment to excellence.
For me, it’s not just about hair; it’s about creating an experience where people leave feeling better than when they arrived. That’s what drives me, and that’s what I hope to carry forward throughout my career.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is, without a doubt, the smile on my client’s face when they see the final result. That moment of joy and confidence, when their vision comes to life and they feel amazing about themselves, is why I do what I do.
It’s so fulfilling to know that my work can make someone’s day brighter or boost their confidence. Whether it’s a small change or a complete transformation, seeing their happiness reminds me of the impact I can have through my craft. It’s not just about creating a look; it’s about creating a feeling—and that’s the most meaningful part of my journey.
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