From her early days as a model to becoming a celebrated makeup artist and entrepreneur, Hanne Norgaard’s story is one of perseverance, creativity, and inspiration. Known professionally as Hanne Kim Norgaard, she has made significant contributions to the beauty industry while also using her platform to advocate for mental health awareness.
This article dives into her life, career, and the impact she has made as a woman of color in a competitive industry.
Early Life and Background
Hanne Norgaard was born on April 5, 1977, in the United Kingdom. She comes from a mixed heritage of British-American and African-Asian descent, which has shaped her unique perspective on beauty and culture. Growing up, Hanne was drawn to the arts, particularly fashion and makeup. As a young girl, she often experimented with makeup, discovering her passion for transforming looks and enhancing natural beauty.
Her early career began in modeling, where she appeared in commercials and print ads in the UK. However, Hanne soon realized her true calling was behind the scenes. She moved to London to pursue a career as a professional makeup artist, a decision that would set the stage for her future success.
Breaking into the Makeup Industry
Hanne’s big break came when she joined the makeup teams for popular British TV shows like Absolutely Fabulous and Birds of a Feather. These opportunities allowed her to hone her skills and build a reputation as a talented and reliable artist. Her work on these shows opened doors to more high-profile projects, including collaborations with major networks like the BBC, Channel 4, ITV, and Sky.
Some of her most notable projects include:
- The X Factor
- Britain’s Next Top Model
- Cash in the Celebrity Attic
Hanne also worked with celebrities like Thandie Newton and Angie Stone, further solidifying her status as a sought-after makeup artist in the entertainment industry.
Marriage to Idris Elba
In 1998, Hanne met Idris Elba, the acclaimed actor, at a party in London. Despite their different backgrounds, the two quickly connected and married in 1999 in Las Vegas. They welcomed their daughter, Isan Elba, in 2001. At the time, Idris was rising to fame with roles in shows like The Wire and Luther, and the couple seemed to be living a dream life.
However, their marriage faced challenges, and they divorced in 2003. Despite the split, Hanne and Idris have remained committed to co-parenting their daughter. Hanne later remarried in 2009 to a man named Gary, and together they raised Isan along with their two sons, Kai and Mingus.
Building a Legacy
In 2016, Hanne took a bold step by launching her own cosmetics brand, Kim Elba Cosmetics. The company focuses on creating high-quality makeup and skincare products specifically designed for multi-ethnic skin tones. Hanne’s inspiration came from her years of experience in the industry, where she noticed a lack of inclusive products for women of color.
Kim Elba Cosmetics has been praised for its commitment to diversity and representation. By addressing this gap in the market, Hanne has not only built a successful business but also empowered women to feel confident and beautiful in their skin.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Beyond her professional achievements, Hanne has been open about her struggles with mental health. She has been diagnosed with chronic anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, and has spoken candidly about her battles with suicidal thoughts. Her willingness to share her story has made her a powerful advocate for mental health awareness, particularly within communities of color where these issues are often stigmatized.
Hanne’s transparency has inspired many to seek help and prioritize their mental well-being. She has also expressed plans to launch formal foundations to support mental health organizations, further solidifying her commitment to this cause.
Hanne Norgaard’s Impact on the Beauty Industry
Hanne’s influence on the beauty industry is undeniable. With over two decades of experience, she has worked on countless projects, from television shows to fashion campaigns, helping to shape contemporary beauty standards. Her work with brands like M∙A∙C Cosmetics and Avon has left a lasting mark on the industry.
Her most significant contribution, however, is her role as a trailblazer for women of color. Through Kim Elba Cosmetics, Hanne has championed inclusivity and representation, ensuring that women of all ethnicities have access to products that cater to their unique needs.
A Role Model for Women of Color
Hanne Norgaard’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. As a mixed-race woman, she has broken barriers in modeling, makeup artistry, and entrepreneurship. Her success in these fields serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and business owners, particularly women of color who often face additional challenges in these industries.
Her advocacy for mental health further cements her status as a role model. By sharing her struggles and triumphs, Hanne has shown that it’s possible to achieve greatness while also prioritizing self-care and mental well-being.
Hanne Norgaard’s Legacy
Hanne Norgaard’s legacy is multifaceted. As an artist, she has shaped the way we perceive beauty. As an entrepreneur, she has redefined industry standards by promoting inclusivity. And as an advocate, she has sparked important conversations about mental health.
Her story reminds us that success is not just about professional achievements but also about the impact we have on others. Hanne’s willingness to be vulnerable and share her journey has touched countless lives, making her a true inspiration.
Conclusion
Hanne Norgaard’s life and career are a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and advocacy. From her early days as a model to her success as a makeup artist and entrepreneur, she has consistently broken barriers and inspired others. Her openness about mental health has further solidified her legacy as a role model and advocate.
FAQs
What are some of Hanne Norgaard’s notable works as a makeup artist?
Hanne has worked on popular British TV shows like Absolutely Fabulous, Birds of a Feather, The X Factor, and Britain’s Next Top Model. She has also collaborated with celebrities like Thandie Newton and Angie Stone.
How did Hanne Norgaard transition from modeling to makeup artistry?
After starting her career as a model, Hanne moved to London to pursue makeup artistry. Her big break came when she joined the makeup teams for BBC sitcoms, which helped her establish herself in the industry.
What inspired Hanne Norgaard to become an entrepreneur?
Hanne noticed a lack of inclusive beauty products for women of color during her years as a makeup artist. This inspired her to launch Kim Elba Cosmetics in 2016, a brand dedicated to serving multi-ethnic skin tones.
