“Growing up as a gay son of a pastor, I faced rejection, bullying, and internalized homophobia. I turned to substance abuse…”
Mario Visagie, affectionately known as Mario Vee is a jack of all trades and a master of everything – breaking boundaries in the realm of beauty education. He is leaving an indelible mark with his unmatched creativity and versatility. From being a celebrated beauty expert, celebrity makeup and permanent makeup artist to being an educator, entrepreneur, philanthropist, life coach and LGBTQI activist.
As a proud gay man, Mario Vee has had to overcome adversity to become a leading figure in the beauty industry, dedicated to empowering others through education and self-expression. He is a visionary, empowering individuals to express themselves, transcending boundaries and inspiring self-confidence. With over 15 years of experience, Mario Vee’s passion for makeup artistry and beauty created a platform to work with both National and international celebrities such as Black Coffee, Monique Bingham, Oskido, Tholo Motaung, Simpiwe Majola and many more.
In an exclusive interview with SA POSITIVE NEWS Mario Vee alludes that his passion for beauty stems from its transformative nature.
“My passion for beauty stems from its transformative power. Growing up, I struggled with self-acceptance, but makeup and beauty helped me find confidence. I realized that beauty could be a tool for empowerment, not just aesthetics. This drove me to pursue a career in beauty education”, he said.
Mario Vee’s journey to success hasn’t been smooth sailing at all. He has proven that overcoming drug and substance abuse is not an easy journey but one that is possible especially if one focuses their energies on what they are passionate about.
Having struggled with acceptance as a gay son of a pastor, Mario fell into drugs and substance abuse. It was when Mario Vee reached rock bottom at the verge of losing his life that he realised that he must turn his life around after several attempts to quit.
“Growing up as a gay son of a pastor, I faced rejection, bullying, and internalized homophobia. I turned to substance abuse, seeking escape from the pain. But hitting rock bottom made me realize I needed help. I sought counselling, joined support groups, and surrounded myself with positive influences.
For example, during my darkest moments, I recall writing down three things I was grateful for each day. This simple practice shifted my focus from despair to hope. I also found solace in makeup, using it as a creative outlet to express myself. Today, I use my experiences to inspire others, proving that adversity can be overcome.”
Mario Vee followed his passion and is currently assisting many South Africans to make a living. The birth of Unblemished Beauty Academy.
Founded in 2019 by Mario Vee, the academy has quickly established itself as a leader in beauty education.
Unblemished Beauty Academy (UB) is a premier beauty school with a national footprint, attracting students from all over South Africa. offering quality Accredited training at affordable prices, with accommodation options available for out-of-town students. Mario has extended the academy to KwaZulu Natal by opening another branch – expanding Unblemished Beauty Academy (UB) reach, providing accessible education.
At UB, students are empowered with expert skills, knowledge, and confidence. The mandate is to provide inclusive, supportive education, fostering creativity and self-expression. Students are exposed to real-life experiences through notable events like the Royalty Soapie Awards, providing a platform for networking and skill-development.
The Academy deliver high quality courses that meet international beauty industry standards. State-of-the art facilities at the academy provide a conducive learning environment, equipped with the latest tools and technology in the beauty industry. All the courses are accredited with Services SETA, Quality Council for Trades and Occupations and Permanent Cosmetic Association of South Africa.
Mario Vee is overachiever of note, as an LGBTQI+ activist he has contributed in creating awareness and encouraged inclusivity of queer individuals in various spaces of society – particularly this Pride month, October is celebrated as the official pride month in South Africa.
On the 13th of October 1990, South Africa’s first Lesbian and Gay Pride March was held in Johannesburg. It was the first Pride March on the African continent. South Africa has made strides in LGBTQI+ rights since then, but there’s still work to be done.
When asked to share his sentiments on Pride Month commemorations and particularly fellow LGBTQI+ community members struggling to come out or be their authentic selves – Mario Vee had this to say:
“To my fellow LGBTQI+ community members struggling to come out or be their authentic selves: “You are seen, heard, and loved. Your identity is valid, and your existence matters.”
“We need ongoing conversations, education, and advocacy to combat discrimination and promote inclusivity”, he added.
As a country, we must:
– Strengthen laws protecting LGBTQI+ rights
– Increase representation and visibility
– Foster safe spaces for self-expression
– Encourage allyship and support
Together, we can create a more inclusive, loving society where everyone can thrive.”
Mario Vee is truly a force to be reckoned with – reflecting a wide artistic vision and boundless innovation. Mario Vee is an undeniable mover and shaker whose moves for the rest of the year are highly anticipated from the onset. The incomparable star has managed to hone his craft and has gained a loyal fan base that has put him on our people to out for in 2024.
Connect with Mario Vee
Instagram: @mario_vee1 and @unblemishedbeauty
Facebook: Mario Visagie and Unblemished Beauty Makeup and Nail Academy
TikTok: @mariovee0 and @unblemishedbeauty1
By Sinenzolo Mondi
