March 8 will be International Women's Day all over the world, in France as well as in the United States, a day for celebrating women empowerment and recognizing the achievements and contributions of women across all walks of life.
Nowadays, women's entrepreneurship and empowerment is all the rage, and everyone wants to talk about it. But at Yon-Ka, it's beyond words, it's a reality.
At Yon-Ka, women are at the heart of the company.
First and foremost at the top...
From 1968 to 2023, Catherine and Françoise Multhaler, daughter and niece of the founders, were respectively Chairman and CEO of the group. In doing so, they showed that women empowerment could lead and develop a company of international renown for over 40 years.
...then in its teams.
Catherine and Françoise Multhaler's leadership of the Group has paved the way for outstanding female leadership. In 2024, most of Yon-ka's 6,000 partner spas and institutes are run by women who exemplify women empowerment.
Giving power back to women and inspiring them to break through the glass ceiling, in addition to helping them feel beautiful and well, is the Yon-Ka group's legacy to all women.
To celebrate the brand's 70th anniversary, we've been discussing with inspirational “Yon-Ka women”, from spa partners to estheticians in the Yon-ka community, about what International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month mean to them, how they use beauty to empower, and their biggest inspirations. Let’s meet with 3 of them.
Patty Neumeier
Senior Manager, Global Spa Operations, Marriott
What does beauty mean to you?
True beauty emanates from within and shines outward. The way you nurture yourself and others reflects your genuine beauty.
What is the best piece of advice you could give to another woman?
Embrace your genuine self. Cultivate independence and resilience. Elevate those around you with kindness and compassion in every aspect of your life.
Who was/is your role model or leadership mentor?
I am fortunate to have an exceptional boss, Suzanne Holbrook, who serves as my mentor in leadership, having supported me over the last decade. She stands as an icon within our spa industry, embodying authentic leadership in every aspect. In addition, there exists a plethora of remarkable role models and mentors globally, yet one individual I constantly find myself drawn to due to his unwavering positivity and motivational influence is Simon Sinek. His message encapsulates his ethos: "We are here to inspire people to do the things that inspire them so that, together, each of us can change our world for the better."
Your favorite quote that is empowering you.
‘Whatever you choose to do, leave tracks. That means don’t do it just for yourself. You will want to leave the world a little better for your having lived.’ - Ruth Bader Ginsburg
What is your favorite de-stressor activity, and what beauty product makes you feel empowered?
As a passionate hiker and outdoor sports lover, staying active has always been my top method for relaxation. And, of course, a close second would be indulging in a soothing massage! I also enjoy exploring a variety of beauty products. My go-to essentials include a luxurious hydrating face cream made with clean ingredients and a top-notch mascara to enhance my blonde lashes.
Morgan Cowels
Esthetician, Imagen Salon and Day Spa
What does beauty mean to you?
To me, beauty means appreciating your imperfections & being comfortable in your own skin! I believe beauty is confidence & an empowerment to yourself!
What is the best piece of advice you could give to another woman?
My advice to other women would be to take care of yourself and be kind to yourself! Feeling beautiful is a mindset & is a power in itself!
Who was/is your role model or leadership mentor?
My role model in my personal life would be my mother! She has always done a great job of taking care of herself and focusing on her skincare- which is what inspired my love of skincare! In the beauty industry, I would say I have been inspired by Elizabeth Arden! Her mantra, “Every woman has the right to be beautiful” has always stayed with me.
Your favorite quote that is empowering you.
My favorite quote at the moment is: “A glowing woman can help other women glow & still be lit”.
What is your favorite de-stressor activity, and what beauty product makes you feel empowered?
My favorite activity to destress is just cuddling up with my two kiddos & watching a movie together, relaxing! My favorite empowering beauty product would have to actually be Yon-Ka’s Vitamin C20 Serum! I am completely obsessed with it! I love the consistency of the product, it is so smooth and hydrating without feeling overly oily, which serums can sometimes feel like. I love how it brightens my skin and that it’s infused with antioxidants. I also love that it comes from 99.9% natural origin- it’s just amazing!
Stephanie DeCuir
Vendor Associate - Spa, Loews Coronado Bay Resort
What is the best piece of advice you could give to another woman?
Know your worth and never apologize for your successes.
What does beauty mean to you?
To me, beauty is being that person you were called to be in this life and sharing your gifts, talents, and experiences to positively impact the lives of others.
Who was/is your role model or leadership mentor?
Rianna Riego. I owe my spa career to her.
Your favorite quote that is empowering you.
It's a blessing to be a blessing.
What is your favorite de-stressor activity, and what beauty product makes you feel empowered?
I love to create beautiful and unique arts and crafts with natural elements like shells, rocks, greenery, and all things of the earth. That is my happy place! I love a great scrub for my face and body. They get rid of all the dead skin and leave you with the most beautiful glow. Who wouldn't feel confident with that?
We invite you to join us in honoring the spirit of women empowerment this International Women's Day and Women’s History Month. Let us continue to uplift and support each other, embracing the true essence of women empowerment in every aspect of our lives.
