March Influencer: Gurnaz Sandhu

Our featured influencer this month is Gurnaz Sandhu, who’s making a splash on social media with her makeup tips and comedic bits. We met this heart-of-gold gal on a flight to Paris in the fall, and can tell you that, despite a massive online following, she’s as down to earth as it gets. —Vita Daily

Hi Gurnaz! Tell us a little bit about you and what do you do.

I’m a South Asian actress and lifestyle content creator currently residing in Vancouver. I make videos on the Internet ranging from beauty reviews and tutorials to relatable rants, comedic skits, trendy transitions and travel vids! Anything that’s fun and entertaining is my forte. I’m primarily active on Instagram and TikTok, and I’ve been creating content for around eight years (since the Vine days)! I’m so grateful to have built such an amazing family online, which has grown and learned with me, and has allowed me to become the person I am today.

How do you use your platform to impact those who follow you?

My message has always been to be kind and spread love. My digital diary is a fun place to laugh and learn. If my skits can bring a smile to someone’s face, or my vulnerability makes someone feel seen and heard, then my work is done. I try to keep everything as real as possible, and share what I think #unfiltered. I truly believe that representation in the media can change peoples lives, so I strive to be the person I never saw growing up. A Punjabi, South Asian, Desi, Brown, Canadian from an immigrant family. A simple girl with big dreams and a cha addiction. I hope that one day people will be able to look at me and say, “If she can do it, then I can do it.”

What’s your personal beauty/style mantra?

Keep it classy. And remember to stay true to you. Your style really impacts your mood, and when my fits look cohesive and I feel comfortable in them, I know I’ll feel confident. I keep my outfits simple so I can go crazy with my makeup!

Pantone’s Colour of the Year is Viva Magenta, a pinkish-purplish-red hue. Love it or hate it?

Love it! I’m so happy brighter colours are making a comeback because they just bring everything to life! Black and white can get a little boring. Magenta really makes a statement. It’s such a fun colour, and it really makes you the life of the party!

Any top beauty picks in that colour for us?

The Live Tinted Huestick in the shade Free is an ultra-creamy face multistick with natural pigments and skin-loving ingredients. Swipe some on your cheeks, eyes and lips for a flush of colour. If you’re feeling brave, add a few layers for an even bolder lip! This brand is so inclusive, and is founded by a South Asian woman.

What’s your actual favourite colour, and why?

Although I love my neutral colours, I think my favourite colour at the moment has to be green. It’s scientifically the most easy and relaxing on the eyes (nature, duh), but I love it because it complements my brown skin and really makes it pop.

Follow Gurnaz on Instagram.