We had the good fortune of connecting with Azelle Santa Ana and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Azelle, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
Maya in Hindu means you create your reality. In tagalog Mayaman means rich, abundant. The Maya was inspired by this affirmation of Abundance, there is more than enough to go around, there is constant growth where you choose to be.

For me it means working with others with this mindset will only lead to a positive environment, and growth both personally and professionally. The abundance mindset. If I am going to have a business, I want everyone with me to do well.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work/
As a full service salon owner and part time hair stylist, I am so proud of being able to create this business that provides space for others to pursue their passions and careers. It definitely was not easy and I feel that 4 years in, I am still so new to it. I appreciate the challenges I experienced. Because of them, I was able to learn and grow, personally and professionally. Where to start? From learning about different electrical and plumbing issues to being able to manage people and have clear, effective communication. Wow does this business help you grow!

My advice to anyone who wants to start a business: get a few mentors! People who you know will have your best interests at heart, are trustworthy and can share some expertise for the field you are trying to enter.

What I want the world to know about The Maya is that it’s an overall being. It’s so important to do what you love. It’s a ripple effect and its contagious. Imagine a world full of more passionate people because they had the courage to do what they love. The Maya is a brand that helps you exude confidence, makes you feel like you are capable of accomplishing anything and everything, going after your goals, doing what you love and most importantly, it helps you to believe in yourself. At The Maya, we want everyone to realize that you are more than enough!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Wow! I am fortunate to have so many that have supported me. To list a few who are continuously there: my parents of course! My mom and her strong work ethic in her Real Estate business inspires me. My dad who we call the Filipino Macgyver has helped me on our salon DIY projects. My brother Patrick Santa Ana, who jumped in to start building the salon with me. My two best friends, Alana and Rajney, who are always just a phone call away. My mentors in the beauty industry who both own several salons, Victor Valverde and Michael Zaldivar, have helped out so so much in the details of the salon business, management and logistics.

A few books that have helped keep my mental game strong and inspired are: Manifest Now by Idil Ahmed, The Big Leap by Gay Hendrick, Start with why by Simon Sinek, The War of Art…. Books are your mentors too.

Website: www.TheMayaSalon.com

Instagram: @azellesa @themayasalon

Facebook: @themayasalon

Yelp: The Maya Salon

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.