04/07/2026
One of our Alumni was awarded Local Business of the Year at the Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce Banquet last month. We wanted to know what her journey was, and let me tell you, her story doesn't disappoint!
Liz, congratulations! We are proud to be part of your story.
"I began the dual credit cosmetology program during my junior year of high school. At that time, I didn’t have a perfect plan—I just had a dream… and the determination to chase it before I ever walked across that graduation stage.
What most people don’t know is that I didn’t start this journey with the goal of owning a business. I started with a feeling—a need. A need for something better. A need for a space where people felt supported, valued, and inspired. And when I couldn’t find that space… I made the decision to create it.
That decision changed everything.
What started as a small vision grew into something far beyond me. Afresh Salon became more than a workplace—it became a home. A place where clients don’t just come to look their best, but to feel seen, confident, and uplifted. And a place where talented professionals can take a chance on themselves, build their own brands, and step fully into their purpose.
Today, I stand here incredibly proud—not just of what I’ve built, but of the people who stand beside me. The team at Afresh shows up every single day with passion, heart, and commitment. They are the soul of everything this space represents.
Being recognized as Business of the Year for 2026 is one of the most meaningful moments of my life. Because behind this recognition are years of sacrifice… long nights… hard lessons… and moments where giving up would have been easier. But I didn’t.
And as a Hispanic woman entrepreneur, this means even more. It’s a reminder that where you come from does not limit where you can go. That your story, your struggles, and your voice—they matter. And they can become the very foundation of something powerful.
Hill College played a major role in my journey. It gave me an opportunity I will never take for granted. Because of that opportunity, I found my path—and I built my future. That’s why I encourage anyone: take the chance, use the resources around you, and don’t be afraid to start before you feel ready.
In 2017, I returned to Hill College to earn my instructor’s degree. Because somewhere along the way, this became bigger than me. Teaching, mentoring, and pouring into others became part of my purpose. Whether I’m training stylists or encouraging a young person who’s just discovering their passion, I see myself in them—and I want them to know that their dreams are worth fighting for.
Owning a business while working behind the chair isn’t easy. It demands time, energy, and sacrifice. But one thing that has never changed is my heart for this community. Afresh has always been about more than hair—it’s about people. It’s about connection. It’s about creating a space where everyone who walks through our doors feels like they belong.
And that’s really what Afresh means.
A fresh start.
A new beginning. A second chance. A place where you can walk in one way—and walk out feeling renewed, confident, and ready to take on whatever comes next."
