Who We Are
Our Vision
Ladies in Bloom empowers young women with self-love, confidence, and the drive to succeed. The organization centers on four key pillars: self-love, feminine healthcare, domestic violence awareness, and education, while honoring and preserving Polynesian cultural heritage.
Founder
Jolisna Hong discovered her passion for empowering young girls through her own experiences overcoming adversity. Growing up in a challenging environment, she recognized the value of a supportive community. With over 14 years in the beauty industry, Jolisna has dedicated herself to mentoring others, building skills, and fostering businesses. As a busy salon owner, she continues to invest in her community, inspiring others through her work with helping the youth and collaborations with organizations that uplift those in need.
Vice President
Gwendolyn Tuaitanu
A Hawaii Native of Samoan Heritage, grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah. With a background in Health Science and Microbiology, she paused her studies to serve an 18-month church mission, learning Spanish and deepening her passion for community service . In 2008, she won both the Miss Samoa USA and Miss Samoa titiles, which led to international speaker, promoting Samoa and empowering women. Gwendolyn now balances roles as an executive accountant, flight attendant, director of the Nafanua Foundation , and board member for the Women's Executive Alliance, all while being a proud mother of four.
Program Manager
Benjamin Powell
With over 30 years in the beauty industry, is an international stylist and former Regional Sales Director for Regis Corporation, a Fortune 500 company. He spent the last 15 years with Paul Mitchell, leading national corporate sales and education for multiple campuses. His career has taken him across North America, Canada, Europe, and the Caribbean. Now based in Salt Lake City, he works with cosmetology schools on professional development, recruitment, hiring, and salon job placement.