IPSY’s Partnership With Project Level Celebrates the Art of Self-Expression
The clothes you wear. The art you create. The makeup you apply. How you express yourself is uniquely you, shaping your identity and even inspiring those around you. That’s why, here at IPSY, we firmly believe in the beauty of self-expression. It’s also why we’re proud to partner with Project Level, a groundbreaking nonprofit dedicated to empowering Bay Area youth to express themselves through the arts.
“Both organizations uplift marginalized voices and celebrate individuality through creativity,” shared Danielle Banks and Richard Bougere, founders and directors of programming at Project Level. “Project Level provides mentorship and opportunities for underserved youth. IPSY fosters self-expression through beauty. Together, we’re changing lives by encouraging people to embrace who they are and pursue their crafts."
About Project Level
Imagine your typical music program; now turn the volume way up. That’s Project Level. Since 2012, the organization has provided year-round programming for students to work with mentors and industry professionals to dive into the world of entertainment, from film and fashion to dance and marketing and beyond. By nurturing students’ passions, Project Level aims to help them find success in their careers and in life—a vision that reminds us of our own passion for inspiring and celebrating self-expression.
IPSY x Project Level
What began as a mentorship program—with IPSY staff members offering students insight into their areas of expertise—has since evolved into a partnership that we’re proud to continue into 2025. As part of that partnership, IPSY sponsors Project Level’s Beauty Department, a club that helps students with a passion for beauty navigate the beauty industry.
“Partnering with IPSY has allowed us to expand our programming to beauty, offering workshops, resources, and hands-on experiences that inspire our students to pursue their dreams in the beauty industry,” shared Beauty Department lead and beauty program manager Camielle Heagney. “It has been incredible to see their confidence grow.” Fellow Beauty Department lead Jasmin Corley agreed: “[IPSY’s] support has helped our youth see the power of their talents and how far their creativity can take them in the beauty industry.”
Limited Edition Mystery Bags by Project Level
In celebration of Black History Month, February’s Limited Edition Mystery Bags—available exclusively in the members-only IPSY Shop—are all about honoring Black beauty and creativity. Designed by none other than the talented members of Project Level’s Beauty Department, these bags (one filled with five mystery deluxe-size samples and one with five mystery full-size faves) feature original, exclusive designs inspired by hair texture.
“We wanted to create something that speaks to the diverse beauty of our community,” said Banks and Bougere. “Hair textures tell a story, and we wanted these bags to honor those stories. It’s a way to say, ‘You are seen, and you matter.’”
The heart pattern on the small bag and liner of the large bag represent a hair braid—an ode to hair textures—while the silk fabric is a nod to hair bonnets worn to reduce friction and breakage. And the heart-shaped zipper pull and heart design? They represent love, especially for yourself—because self-care is the highest form of self-love.
At IPSY, we’re committed to empowering and investing in the Black community, and our ongoing partnership with Project Level is just one way we’re helping to elevate the voices of youth from communities of color.