In a compelling on-site interview during End Your Year Strong, Chanel E. Martin of KBN Magazine sat down with Camara Aunique Helps, an award-winning celebrity makeup artist and the visionary behind Camara AUnique Beauty. Known for her work with stars like Angela Bassett, Naturi Naughton, and Ava DuVernay, Camara shared her passion for integrating faith into the beauty industry and how partnering with God has transformed her career.
When asked about her motivation to bring faith into the beauty world, Camara emphasized the importance of aligning beauty with divine purpose. “We are made in the image and likeness of God,” she said. “One of the things the enemy is trying to do is hide the image of women in the Christian community. But when we partner with God, even in something as practical as choosing makeup products, people see Him first when they see us.” For Camara, beauty is about more than appearances—it’s a reflection of inner work and spiritual alignment.
Camara’s lash collection is another unique expression of her faith. She names each style after prominent women in the Bible, a deliberate choice to connect modern women with timeless biblical role models. “The women in the Bible are relatable and have amazing stories,” she explained. “For example, Esther teaches us the power of kindness and timing, while Deborah demonstrates leadership and devotion as both a wife and a warrior. These lessons guide us in navigating our own seasons.”
Her faith-driven approach has resonated widely, as evidenced by a recent viral video where she shared her experience of partnering with God in her career. In 2021, Camara felt called by God to throw away her entire makeup kit—a bold move for someone working in Hollywood with high-profile clients. “The Lord told me to go shopping with Him,” she recounted. “I partnered with the Holy Spirit to select products for my kit. It wasn’t just about makeup; it was about understanding my assignment as a servant in the beauty industry.”
In the viral post, Camara urged fellow beauty professionals to approach their work as a ministry. “As makeup artists and hairstylists, how are you serving God’s children? Do you understand your assignment?” she asked. Camara’s perspective shifts the focus from fame to service, reminding beauty professionals that their work is part of a larger divine mission to protect and honor God’s image in others.
Camara’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of faith and purpose. Over her 14-year career, her work has graced countless red carpets, campaigns, and runways, earning accolades like Essence Magazine’s Best in Black Beauty Award in 2020. Despite her success, she attributes every milestone to God’s grace.
Camara thanked Chanel for the opportunity to share her heart and vision. “This is more than beauty—it’s about faith, identity, and living out God’s purpose in everything we do.”
Camara Aunique Helps continues to inspire as a trailblazer who bridges faith and beauty, demonstrating that even in an industry focused on appearances, God’s purpose shines brightest. Her story serves as an encouragement for others to invite God into every aspect of their lives, including their work. Through her artistry, her message is clear: beauty is not just skin deep—it’s a reflection of divine grace.
