From vision to impact—Mariana Bahou’s journey from HR to entrepreneurship proves that business can be both profitable and purposeful. Discover how she’s redefining success with ethics, empowerment, and lasting change.
What inspired you to pursue entrepreneurship?
From a young age, I knew I wanted to create something meaningful—something that went beyond personal success. As a blue blood reincarnated, I have always felt a deep sense of purpose and responsibility to lead and uplift others. My journey began in human resources, where I saw firsthand how the right leadership and culture could transform workplaces. But I wanted to take it further and build businesses that not only thrived financially but also contributed to the greater good. That’s what led me to create La Mariana Management HR Consulting and MarianaSignature Cosmetics—two ventures driven by purpose, not just profit.
How do you balance business success with social impact?
For me, success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about the lives we touch. Every decision I make, whether in HR consulting or cosmetics, is rooted in a mission to uplift and empower. I integrate ethical business practices into my ventures, ensuring that we aren’t just selling products or services but also driving positive change. Whether it’s advocating for mental well-being in workplaces or promoting self-expression through beauty, I believe that businesses should always have a higher purpose.
What sets MarianaSignature Cosmetics apart from traditional beauty brands?
MarianaSignature Cosmetics isn’t just another beauty brand—it’s a statement. I wanted to create a line that celebrates authenticity rather than conformity. Many brands push the idea that makeup should hide flaws, but I see it as a tool for empowerment. Our products are designed to enhance natural beauty, not mask it. As I always say, “Makeup should be an enhancement, not a disguise—why not add wings?”
How does La Mariana Management HR Consulting align with your mission?
HR is more than just hiring and policies—it’s about shaping environments where people feel valued, supported, and motivated. Through La Mariana Management, I help businesses cultivate cultures that inspire productivity and well-being. My goal is to create workplaces where individuals don’t just work but thrive, knowing that they are part of something bigger. The principles of respect, inclusivity, and empowerment guide everything we do.
What are some key social issues you’re actively addressing?
My advocacy work extends across multiple areas, but I’m especially passionate about online bullying, mental health awareness, and exposing systemic injustices like corruption and human exploitation. Social media has made it easy to spread negativity, and I want to use my platform to counter that—to promote resilience, education, and self-worth. I also actively speak out against cult-like influences that manipulate and control people, shedding light on the importance of independent thinking.
How do you use your platform to combat online bullying?
I believe that awareness and education are the strongest weapons against cyberbullying. Through my businesses and social media, I share stories, encourage open conversations, and provide resources to help people navigate the digital world without fear. We live in a time where words have power—both to harm and to heal. I choose to use mine for healing, uplifting, and creating a community where people feel safe expressing themselves.
How did your healing journey at 18 influence your career?
That period of my life was transformational. I faced challenges that forced me to look inward, to truly understand resilience, self-worth, and healing. It was through that journey that I realized my purpose—to empower others to find their strength, just as I found mine. That experience shaped how I approach business, relationships, and life. It’s why I always emphasize self-empowerment and why I ensure that my businesses aren’t just about profit but about making a real difference.
What impact do you hope to make through your humanitarian work?
I want to create tangible, lasting change. The ‘Business Plan for Poverty’ is one of my most ambitious initiatives because it goes beyond temporary aid—it focuses on building sustainable solutions. The goal is to provide homes and resources to those in need, helping them break the cycle of poverty and rebuild their lives. I believe that when people have stability, they can focus on growth rather than survival. That’s the kind of impact I want to make.
How does the ‘Business Plan for Poverty’ create lasting change?
Instead of just offering temporary relief, this initiative is designed to provide long-term solutions. Housing is just the beginning—the real transformation happens when people have access to education, skills training, and job opportunities. I want to empower people to take control of their futures, not just rely on handouts. True change happens when we give people the tools to build their own success.
How do you integrate ethical business practices into your ventures?
Every decision I make is guided by integrity. Whether it’s ensuring that our cosmetics are cruelty-free, promoting fair work environments through La Mariana Management, or reinvesting in communities through The ‘Business Plan for Poverty’, ethics are at the core of everything I do. Business, in my opinion, should be a force for good—one that creates prosperity without exploitation or harm.
What do you hope to be remembered for?
I want to be remembered as someone who used business as a tool for change—not just as an entrepreneur, but as a visionary who helped others rise. Success, for me, isn’t about personal achievements; it’s about the impact left behind. If my work inspires even one person to believe in their own power, to break free from limitations, then I’ve done what I set out to do.
What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs with a purpose?
Start with your “why.” Money and success will come, but purpose is what sustains you when challenges arise. Build something meaningful, something that aligns with your values. Surround yourself with a team that shares your vision, and never compromise on integrity. And most importantly, believe in yourself—because if you don’t, no one else will.
