From Setbacks to Success: How Jade Kisnorbo Built a Diverse and Resilient Makeup Career.
Jade Kisnorbo
In the ever-evolving world of makeup artistry, there’s no single path to success—and that’s exactly what makes Jade Kisnorbo’s story so inspiring. Known professionally as Jade K, this Melbourne-based artist has carved out a diverse and fulfilling career spanning editorial shoots, live events, wellness campaigns, and even major gigs like the Grand Prix. Her secret? A powerful mix of resilience, humility, and unwavering self-belief.
A Career Built on Variety and Passion
Jade’s portfolio is as dynamic as her personality. From working on Wellness Australia campaigns to glamming up celebrities and contributing to runway shows, every day on the job looks different. And that’s just the way she likes it. The variety keeps her inspired, constantly learning, and evolving as an artist.
But her success isn’t just about talent—it’s about mindset. In her podcast interview, Jade shares how crucial a positive attitude has been in navigating the ups and downs of the beauty industry. She talks about how focusing on mindset has helped her overcome hurdles, bounce back from criticism, and build a career on her own terms.
The Power of Persistence and Support
Jade didn’t start in makeup. She began her professional life with a degree in health science and later worked in HR and sales overseas. But her natural flair for hair and makeup couldn’t be ignored—especially by her husband, who encouraged her to pursue her true passion.
Taking a leap of faith, Jade enrolled at a prestigious makeup school in London. Surrounded by top-tier artists, she realised she wanted more than just bridal bookings—she was hungry for creativity, variety, and the fast-paced world of fashion and media.
Still, success wasn’t immediate. Jade worked tirelessly, often unpaid, pushing through exhaustion and self-doubt. What kept her going was sheer determination and the unwavering support of those closest to her. Jade is the first to say she wouldn’t be where she is today without a strong, supportive team around her.
Keeping Ego in Check
One of the biggest lessons Jade shares is the importance of managing ego. In the beauty world, where your last job often defines your reputation, it’s easy to get caught up in comparison and judgement. Jade admits that even she has to work on keeping her ego in check, focusing instead on collaboration, learning, and kindness.
She believes that criticism often comes from a place of insecurity and that true growth happens when you stop comparing and start focusing on your own journey. That mindset helped her through some of her darkest moments—including a painful experience where an unfinished makeup look was shared and judged by others in the industry.
Overcoming Judgement and Rebuilding Confidence
That incident, where a group of artists circulated an incomplete makeup look of Jade’s, was a turning point. As a self-proclaimed people-pleaser, Jade was devastated. But instead of letting it break her, she distanced herself from negativity, doubled down on her goals, and eventually received apologies from those involved.
Jade’s ability to rise above judgement and keep moving forward speaks volumes about her character. She learned to focus on what she could control—her reaction, her attitude, and her energy. That experience also reinforced the importance of a strong, supportive network in an industry that can sometimes be unkind.
Be Smart and Protect Your Ideas
Another crucial takeaway from Jade’s journey is the importance of treating your artistry like a business. As she puts it: “You’re the CEO of your brand.” That means being smart about who you share ideas with, protecting your intellectual property, and understanding the legal side of your work.
While sharing ideas and collaborating is a big part of being a creative, Jade warns against being too open with those who may not have your best interests at heart. She encourages fellow artists to do their homework, learn about contracts, and protect their creative concepts—because in this industry, ideas are currency.
Final Thoughts: Success Is a Journey, Not a Destination
Jade Kisnorbo’s story is proof that success in the makeup industry is about so much more than just technique. It’s about mindset, resilience, and surrounding yourself with the right people. Her journey is a reminder to be patient, persistent, and protective of your dreams.
For any aspiring makeup artist out there, take a page from Jade’s book: believe in your abilities, stay open to new experiences, and never let judgement or ego hold you back. Because with the right mindset and support, there’s no limit to where your artistry can take you.