Bright Smile Clear Skin – Melida Gus

Melida Gus, a descendant from Siksika Nation (Alberta), born in Port Alberni, and a member of the Tseshaht First Nation, was raised by her grandmother in Victoria. Melida is an 2023 NEDC Business Award Winner - Best Service Business

Melida finds her strength and drive after losing her mother and brother. Melida’s goal is to build a business that acknowledges those that are forgotten. As Indigenous people, we are on the margin of racism, even today. She strives for independence, self-expression, and acknowledgment. Beauty is not just ‘outer’ she says it’s inner beauty that she loves. Melida offers a unique spa experience. She has a ‘Wellness Spa’ that includes everything from manicures, pedicures, massages, teeth whitening and so much more. She started out doing multiple years of training in school over the past 13 years. She worked at the Brentwood Bay Resort for more experience in her field. After COVID-19 she rented a spot in a beauty salon and eventually opened her own business. Melida’s focus is on ‘Wellness.” There have been struggles for Melida, like any business. It’s stressful thinking about finances and making it in the first few years of owning a business. However, she kept her focus and her goal to provide a space for wellness and healing. Anyone who comes into her spa is treated with dignity and respect, including her newly hired staff. Providing a balance between work and home is heartfelt to her because she gives her genuine heart to each of her clients. Melida holds dearly to her heart the road to independence and freedom to express oneself. She has her own Spa but also works for ‘Our Place’ and other places to provide free services for those who otherwise cannot afford a spa.

Melida’s advice is to make sure you know your business inside and out. Work for a place long enough to see if it’s something you are willing to maintain. Experience trains you and she does not forget that. She is thankful for financial assistance from NEDC. She found the workshops on starting your own business a ‘jump start’ to fulfill her dreams.