My Story

Danielle McLane is the visionary founder and CEO of Diamond Beauty Academy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth through beauty, cosmetic chemistry, and entrepreneurship. With a professional background as a Chief Financial Officer, Danielle spent years leading in corporate finance before a life-altering CVI stroke changed the course of her life and ignited a deeper purpose.

During her recovery, Danielle discovered the power of beauty, science, and self-expression as tools for healing, confidence, and transformation. What began as a personal journey to regain strength and identity became the foundation of a movement to help young people, especially those from under-resourced communities, build their own pathways to success. She turned pain into purpose by creating Diamond Beauty Academy as a place where creativity meets STEM, and where young people are taught not just how to look good, but how to build businesses, careers, and self-belief.

Under Danielle’s leadership, Diamond Beauty Academy has grown into a nationally recognized model that blends cosmetic chemistry, financial literacy, workforce development, and mental wellness. The Academy has partnered with major organizations including Sephora’s Project Glimmer, Philadelphia Youth Network, Belmont Charter High School, and Charles Schwab to provide youth with hands-on learning, certifications, paid internships, and real-world career exposure.

Danielle is a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program and the University of Pennsylvania Community Scholars Program, and she continues to advocate for equity, mental health, and economic opportunity for the next generation. Her story of resilience, leadership, and innovation is at the heart of Diamond Beauty Academy’s mission to ensure that every young person has the tools, confidence, and support to thrive.