Bibi Thaibinh Hernandez is a visionary entrepreneur, educator, and community advocate dedicated to creating pathways to empowerment through beauty, education, and opportunity. A Posse Scholar and Carleton College graduate, Bibi earned her degree in Chemistry with a concentration in Biochemistry, initially pursuing a career in medicine. While her early academic journey was rooted in science, life ultimately led her toward a different calling—one centered on service, education, and transformation.

In 2011, Bibi founded One Stop Salon Chicago, where she honed her expertise across multiple disciplines including nail technology, lash artistry, and permanent makeup. What began as a passion for beauty evolved into a mission to mentor and uplift others entering the industry. Recognizing the need for accessible, high-quality education, Bibi became a dually licensed Illinois Nails and Esthetics Instructor in 2018, positioning herself to make a broader impact.

In 2020, during a time of uncertainty and upheaval, Bibi launched One Stop Beauty School, which has grown into one of the most trusted nail and esthetics schools in Chicago, known for its hands-on instruction, strong licensure outcomes, and proven student testimonials. The school is widely respected for its personalized training model, real-world salon experience, and commitment to student success—helping graduates build sustainable careers and achieve economic independence.

As a first-generation Vietnamese American and former refugee, Bibi understands firsthand the power of second chances, resilience, and education as tools for economic mobility.

Driven by a deep commitment to service and systems-level change, Bibi is currently the President of the Board of Directors for the Center for Changing Lives (CCL), a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to ending homelessness and poverty by empowering individuals and families to achieve financial independence. In this leadership role, she helps guide strategic vision, governance, and community partnerships that expand access to housing stability, employment, and supportive services.

To further her mission of giving back, Bibi founded One Stop Beauty Foundation DBA The Olivia Mae Lotus Scholarship, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting survivors of addiction, trauma, and returning citizens. Through scholarships, mentorship, and vocational training opportunities, the foundation helps individuals rebuild their lives, achieve self-sufficiency, and break generational cycles of trauma and poverty.

Bibi firmly believes in the transformative power of education and vocational training to restore dignity, create stability, and generate lasting community impact. Her work is rooted in the belief that when individuals are empowered with skills, support, and opportunity, they create a ripple effect of positive change that extends far beyond themselves.

“I have been abundantly blessed with opportunities to learn and grow. My mission is to empower others to overcome challenges and succeed through hard work, dedication, and integrity.”