Karen Dupiche never set out to make history but she did. The four-time Emmy Award-winning makeup artist became the first Haitian-American to take home the trophy for Outstanding Makeup. In doing so, she carved a path not only for herself but for generations of Black and immigrant creatives who had never seen their stories reflected in the spotlight. Her work has helped shape how powerful women are seen on screen from The View to the White House. But Dupiche’s mission today is about more than glam. It’s about grace, healing and legacy.
As Haitian Heritage Month comes to a close, Dupiche is sharing her journey behind the makeup chair. It’s a path that includes breaking cultural expectations, creating wellness spaces for women, and leaning into the rituals that have sustained her.
From Nursing School to the Emmys
Raised in a traditional Haitian household, Dupiche was expected to follow the secure path of medicine, law, or nursing. In fact, she was in her final year of nursing school when she made the bold decision to walk away and pursue her passion for makeup. It wasn’t a decision her family initially understood.
“My mother was very upset,” Dupiche said.
But her father gave her his blessing with a reminder.
“Respect your name. Your integrity is all you have. Do what you’re supposed to do, mind your business, and get out,” she recalled
That mantra carried her through the grind of being a self-taught artist in an industry that doesn’t always make space for outsiders. But through discipline, punctuality, and a commitment to craft, Dupiche broke through.
“To be rewarded by God in that way, as the first Haitian Emmy Award-winning makeup artist—it still humbles me,” she said. “It wasn’t just about me. It was about representation.”
The View from Behind the Scenes
For more than 20 years, Dupiche has worked as the lead makeup artist on The View, helping to shape how influential women are presented to the world. But the job isn’t just about contour and concealer.
“It’s about presence,” she said. “It’s about having confidence. It’s about owning your voice.”
Watching the co-hosts navigate public discourse each day has inspired her to do the same in her own way.
“Sometimes, in television, women are afraid to say certain things,” she explained. “But being in those rooms showed me the power of energy, conversation, and being unapologetically yourself.”
Creating Glow & Grace
Out of that same spirit, Dupiche launched Glow & Grace, a beauty and wellness event designed to honor the women who so often pour into others. The event focuses on mothers, aunties, godmothers, and caregivers.
“Women do everything,” she said. “But they rarely take time for themselves.”
The event featured massages, discussions about fibroids and wellness, and even a surprise guest appearance from Sherri Shepherd. The TV host spoke about her own motherhood journey and raising a child with special needs.
“Some of the women cried. They hugged. They felt seen,” Dupiche said. “It was about celebrating them and reminding them they’re worthy of care too.”
Haitian Pride, Power
Dupiche speaks with unshakable pride about her Haitian roots.
“The strength, the resilience, the excellence. It’s who we are,” she said. “We were raised to be respectful, to never compromise, to take care of our communities. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
That sense of identity has infused not only her career but her broader mission of representation and service. She wants young Haitian girls and all Black girls to know that they are enough.
“You’re exactly who you’re supposed to be,” she said. “Don’t dim your light. Walk in the room like you belong.”
Rituals for Longevity Beauty from Within
With nearly 30 years in the industry, Dupiche has learned that true beauty isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.
“When I first started, beauty was all about the outside. Makeup, lashes, glam,” she admitted. “But now? It’s about energy. It’s about confidence.”
She credits prayer, meditation, and nourishing food as the rituals that have helped her stay grounded over the years.
“Before I pour into others, I pour into myself,” she said. “As a makeup artist, we’re not just artists. We’re therapists, stylists, energy holders.”
Looking Ahead
Though she couldn’t reveal too much, Dupiche hinted at new projects on the horizon.
“You’ll be seeing more of me,” she said with a smile in her voice.
Whether it’s backstage at The View, speaking to young women, or hosting Glow & Grace, Karen Dupiche’s legacy is already unfolding. One that’s rooted in resilience, shaped by service, and glowing with purpose.