Mario Vee keeps inspiring and empowering South Africans to acquire skills to lead in the beauty industry
Mario Visagie popularly known as Mario Vee has proven that overcoming drug and substance abuse is not an easy journey but one that is possible especially if one focus their energies on what they are passionate about.
Having struggled with acceptance as a gay son of a pastor Mario fell into drugs and substance abuse. It was when Mario Vee reached rock bottom at the verge of loosing his life that he realised that he has to turn his life around after several attempts to quit. Mario Vee followed his passion that is currently assisting many South Africans to make a living. The birth of Unblemished Beauty Academy.
Founded in 2019 by Mario Visagie, known as Mario Vee, the academy has quickly established itself as a leader in beauty education. With over 15 years of experience, Mario Vee has worked with numerous celebrities, including Black Coffee, Monique Bingham, Oskido and others earning a reputation for excellence in makeup artistry, permanent makeup, and nail technology.
THEDEAL Magazine sat down and had a chat with her, in understanding the business she has founded and how she overcomes the challenges of keeping afloat and contribute to this economy.
TDM: What inspired and/or prompted you to venture into the beauty industry?
MV: My passion for beauty stems from its transformative power. Makeup helped me overcome self-acceptance issues and find confidence. Realizing beauty’s potential to empower others, I pursued beauty education. This drive led me to establish Unblemished Beauty Academy, fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments.
TDM: What have been the challenges you faced in starting the business?
MV: Starting Unblemished Beauty Academy presented challenges:
• Securing funding and resources
• Building a diverse and skilled team
• Overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome
• Navigating the competitive beauty industry
As an LGBTQI+ activist, I faced:
• Skepticism and criticism from some quarters
• Fear of being ostracized or losing business due to my sexuality
• Balancing activism with entrepreneurship
However, authenticity and commitment to inclusivity resonated with many, leading to an overwhelmingly positive public reception.
TDM: What would you say are the 3 key lessons learned in your entrepreneurial journey?
MV: Three key lessons I’ve learned are:
1. Authenticity is key: Stay true to yourself and your vision.
2. Resilience is essential: Overcome obstacles with determination and adaptability.
3. Community matters: Surround yourself with supportive people who share your values.
TDM: What would you say has been your support structure in this journey?
MV: My support structure includes loving family members, close friends, mentors and industry peers. I would also definitely have say some of my clients, who believed in me, my vision and my skills, helped launch my business.
TDM: Can you break down the type of services you offer to clients?
MV: Unblemished Beauty Academy offers:
• Makeup Artistry and beauty courses
– Bridal makeup
• Hairstyling
• wig installation
• Massage courses
• waxing course
• Permanent makeup courses and services
• Aesthetics courses and treatments
• microneedling (chemical peels, microdermabrasion)
• Nail technology
• Beauty workshops and masterclasses
• Mentorship programs
TDM: How can people reach you for further consultation of your services?
MV: Contact Unblemished Beauty Academy:
• Website: www.unblemishedbeautysupplies.co.za
• Email:
• Phone: 010 745 2214
–
• Social Media: Facebook :Unblemished Beauty Makeup and Nail Academy
• Instagram: @unblemishedbeauty
• Tik tok : Unblemishedbeauty1
• Address: 6 terrace road Eastleigh Edenvale Johannesburg
• 396 Che Guevara Road Glenwood Durban
Additional information:
• Unblemished Beauty Academy has branches in Johannesburg and Durban.
• We offer accommodation options for out-of-town students.
• Our courses are nationally recognized, ACCREDITED, Services SETA, QCTO and affordable.
• We provide real-life experience through events and partnerships.
SHARE THIS STORY ANYWHERE YOU LIKE
SHARE THIS STORY ANYWHERE
LATEST NEWS
LATEST NEWS
Scorpion Kings Live returns to make history
Following the resounding success of the landmark Scorpion Kings Live [with Friends] in 2025, the Scorpion Kings are set to raise the
40 years of House: Oskido, Glen Lewis & Lamiez take charge
A bold new chapter in South Africa’s music calendar begins as House Naxiion officially launches, celebrating 4 decades of house
Moonchild Sanelly announces hometown show
Moonchild Sanelly is excited to announce that she will play her album FULL MOON live in her home city of