What's Your Story? Makeup and Spirituality

What's Your Story? features the different characters that roam the streets of Toronto. Every Monday and Thursday, a new person shares their story, likes and dislikes about the city, a little secret and more.

Name: Mario

Age: 24

What neighbourhood are you from? North York

What do you 'do'? I'm a makeup artist.

How long have you been in Toronto? All 24 years.

What's your story?

I was an ECE teacher and worked for George Brown College but I craved creativity. I was looking for a new job and makeup artistry wasn't what I had in mind but MAC caught my eye. I went in and asked what qualifications were needed to become a makeup artist and I started working there a week later. I started as a cashier. Through MAC, there are lots of opportunities to grow professionally and personally. Working there has really helped me discover my true self, be creative and more daring. I love how they embrace differences and allow me to be myself. Sometimes, I dress in drag for work. I'm also a performer. I majored in vocal music. I love entertaining people and pushing their buttons.

I also like learning about spirituality and finding out what my purpose in life is.

Favorite thing(s) about Toronto:

I love the diversity and the freedom Toronto has to offer.

Least favorite thing(s) about Toronto:

I find the entertainment in Toronto a little boring - there's no flavour or culture.

You have 24 hours to spend with someone who's never been to Toronto before - what do you do?

I would definitely take them to the CN Tower and Harbourfront, then introduce them to one of our top restaurants, go to Yorkville, more sightseeing, maybe have a bite at Tabouli which is my favorite right now and in the evening, go to College Street.

One thing that your friends/family don't know about you:

I have a great selection of wigs.