In May 2025, Mary Kay Inc., one of the most iconic brands in the direct selling industry, reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and scientific innovation by awarding ten young individuals at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).
This gesture highlights how multi-level marketing (MLM) companies are contributing to the development of new generations of leaders with social and scientific awareness.
Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair 2025
The Regeneron ISEF 2025 is one of the largest global events for high school student scientists, attracting more than 1,600 participants from 70 countries. In this edition, Mary Kay Inc. participated as a sponsor and awarded 10 scholarships to students who presented innovative projects in key areas such as sustainability, health, technology and social empowerment.
The scholarships were part of the Young Women in STEM Grant program, an initiative that seeks to close the gender gap in science and technology. According to Mary Kay representatives, this collaboration aims not only to reward academic excellence but also to promote leadership, entrepreneurship and social awareness, values shared with their community of consultants and distributors around the world.
Innovative Proposals from the Brightest Young Minds
One of the awarded projects came from María N., a young Colombian student who developed a low-cost water filtration system using agricultural waste.
Her proposal stood out for its impact on rural communities and its sustainable approach. As part of the award, María and the other winners will receive mentoring, guidance in social innovation and global visibility.
This type of initiative reveals a lesser-known side of MLM companies: their investment in corporate social responsibility. Mary Kay is not only positioned as a cosmetics brand but also as a platform for personal and professional development.
In the words of Deborah Gibbins, COO of the company: “We believe that the leadership of the future begins with investing in the leaders of today, even if they’re only 16 years old.”
Source: MaryKay
