Louisville Beauty Academy Update: KY State Board Licensing Multi-Language Testing Implementation Continues to Thrive

As of December 11, 2024, Louisville Beauty Academy celebrates the ongoing success of the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology’s multi-language testing program. Since its initial implementation, this initiative has made a significant impact on increasing accessibility and inclusivity within the beauty industry, breaking down language barriers for aspiring professionals.

The Numbers Speak for Themselves

A snapshot of the utilization rates from September 12, 2024, to November 25, 2024, reflects the program’s strong adoption:

51 Vietnamese-language examinees

15 Korean-language examinees

14 Chinese-language examinees

14 Spanish-language examinees

11 Portuguese-language examinees

This makes a total of 105 individuals who were able to take their Nail Technician exams in a language they were comfortable with—an incredible step toward fostering diversity and opportunity in Kentucky’s beauty industry.

Expanding Beyond Nail Technology

Since the last report, the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology has extended multi-language exam support to all programs, including cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology instructors. Languages currently supported include:

• Korean

• Portuguese

• Simplified Chinese

• Spanish

• Vietnamese

This expansion ensures that students and professionals in all sectors of cosmetology, except for the Blow Dry and Shampoo certifications (which remain under development), have access to exams in their native or preferred language.

What’s Next?

The Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology continues to push for inclusivity, with efforts underway to add Khmer (Cambodian) as a supported language. This reflects the board’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of Kentucky’s beauty professionals and enhancing the workforce in the state.

At Louisville Beauty Academy, we are proud to see our mission of empowerment through education aligning with these inclusive policies. We remain dedicated to ensuring our students not only meet their goals but exceed them, with the confidence that language will never be a barrier to success.

For more updates and support, Louisville Beauty Academy encourages students to take full advantage of the multi-language opportunities available. Together, we’re building a future where talent thrives, regardless of language or background.

The Beauty of Serving: A Glimpse into the Heart of Di Tran

In the heart of Louisville, at the Beauty Academy, there’s a soul whose life revolves around giving back to the community. For founder and CEO Di Tran, teaching beauty licensing isn’t just a business. It’s a vocation, a privilege, and a testament to the tapestry of lives that converge from all corners of the world, seeking the American Dream.

“It’s an absolute privilege,” says Di Tran, his voice filled with emotion. Sometimes words fall short when trying to describe the depth of feelings that accompany being a beacon of hope for many. Di paints a vivid picture of a typical day, making it evident that the Louisville Beauty Academy is so much more than just a school. It’s a melting pot of dreams, aspirations, and stories.

He talks about a student from India, who’s mastering esthetics so she can perfect her threading technique. Her goal isn’t just to provide a service but to teach this unique skill to others in America. And then there’s the resilient Ukrainian student, who overcame language barriers, proving her determination by passing her Ky state board theory exam on her second attempt. The triumphant sparkle in her eyes, a testament to her resilience and determination.

Di’s empathy runs deep, especially for the newly enrolled students from Myanmar. Their history of living in mud huts and bamboo houses resonates with Di’s own memories of his time in Vietnam. Language often acts as a barrier, as seen with the Latino student. Their conversations, aided by Google Translate, are symbolic of the bridges Di Tran builds every day.

The academy is a mosaic of individuals, from different walks of life – Vietnamese, Filipino, black, white, and every shade in between. Many are college graduates with degrees ranging from engineering to childcare, from medicine to business. Their backgrounds are as diverse as their dreams, but they all converge here, seeking the same dream – success, fulfillment, and happiness.

The teaching staff is no less exceptional. Experienced military veterans and professionals from multiple schools bring expertise in salon startups, nails, cosmetology, and esthetics. But above all, they bring a heart full of care. They embody the ethos of the academy, which is to care and love every student, understanding the diverse backgrounds and unique challenges each one faces.

For Di Tran, the emotion is palpable. His eyes well up as he shares these stories, a testament to the deep connection he feels with each student, each dream, and each triumph. “God does it all, I only follow and do my part as his tool. I am God’s tool,” he says with humility.

In the midst of the hustle and bustle, the exams, and the practical lessons, Louisville Beauty Academy stands as a testament to Di Tran’s vision – a place where dreams are nurtured, barriers are broken, and success stories are written every day. And at the heart of it all, is a man who feels privileged to serve, to guide, and to inspire.

Louisville Beauty Academy - Immigrant Cosmetologist

Overcoming Language Barriers: Comfort for Immigrants Pursuing a Career in the Beauty Industry

For many immigrants, the thought of attending beauty school and obtaining a license to legally practice beauty services can be a daunting and fearful experience, especially for those who are limited in their English proficiency. However, immigrants such as Vietnamese, Ukrainians, Latinos, Spanish, and others can take comfort in the fact that Di Tran, the CEO and owner of Louisville Beauty Academy, was once in their shoes.

Di Tran immigrated to the United States 27 years ago with zero English proficiency. However, with hard work and dedication, he built the Louisville Beauty Academy with an emphasis on assisting immigrants and underserved populations in achieving their dreams of becoming licensed beauty professionals.

Cosmetologist

The beauty industry is a billion-dollar industry that requires skillful professionals, and it provides a great opportunity for immigrants to establish themselves in the market. Di Tran’s family and everyone else, regardless of their background, can benefit from this industry if they are willing to put in the effort and study hard.

Di Tran understands firsthand how challenging it can be to learn a new language and navigate a new culture, and he has incorporated his experiences into the training program at Louisville Beauty Academy. The training is designed to be simple and easy to follow, with a focus on easing the learning process for students who are limited in their English proficiency.

Di Tran’s success story should serve as inspiration to all immigrants who are considering pursuing a career in the beauty industry. With dedication and patience, anyone can achieve their dreams, regardless of their background or language proficiency.

So if you are an immigrant who is considering attending beauty school, do not let fear or language barriers hold you back. Take comfort in the fact that there are people like Di Tran who understand your struggles and have designed training programs specifically for individuals like you. With effort and patience, you too can become a successful beauty professional and contribute to the thriving beauty industry.

Louisville Beauty Academy – Overcoming Language Barriers – Attend Beauty School Now