Jacqueline Schaffer: Healing, Giving, and Growing in California, USA

Jacqueline Schaffer is a successful business owner, medical doctor, and philanthropist. With a career dedicated to holistic wellness and community impact, Jacqueline seamlessly integrates her medical expertise, entrepreneurial ventures, and charitable initiatives. After graduating from medical school in 2014, she founded A Sandwich A Day, a charity focused on feeding the homeless and demonstrating how small acts of kindness can create lasting change.

As an entrepreneur, Jacqueline made her mark in the wellness industry by launching Schique Skincare, a vegan and ethical beauty brand celebrated for its innovation and integrity. Featured on TVSN and available in over 300 stores, including Macy’s, Schique exemplifies Jacqueline’s commitment to creating products that prioritize both quality and sustainability.

Jacqueline’s work is driven by her passion for wellness, pilates, and nutrition, inspiring her mission to empower others to lead healthier, more compassionate lives. Through her achievements, she continues to set a standard for impactful leadership and meaningful community engagement.

What first inspired your passion for wellness and community care?

Growing up, I always felt a deep sense of purpose whenever I helped others, even in small ways. But it was in medical school where I realized that healing isn’t just about medicine; it’s about meeting people where they are and addressing their core needs. The foundation of my approach lies in recognizing that wellness is multifaceted. When I started my charity, A Sandwich A Day, I wanted to address something so fundamental: hunger. Providing a meal might seem small, but for someone who’s struggling, it can mean everything. That initial inspiration has kept me going, both in the wellness industry and in my charitable efforts.

How did your medical training shape your approach to entrepreneurship?

Medical training instills a sense of responsibility and thoroughness that has permeated everything I do. When I created Schique Skincare, my understanding of how the body functions and the importance of clean, effective ingredients shaped every decision. I always considered how each product could genuinely improve someone’s well-being. Moreover, my background has taught me to prioritize transparency and ethical practices. Just like a doctor needs to gain a patient’s trust, an entrepreneur should respect and uplift the consumer. It’s about integrity, whether you’re prescribing a treatment or formulating a skincare product.

Why do you believe small acts of kindness, like feeding the homeless, can have a significant impact?

I’ve always held the belief that no act of kindness is too small. When I started A Sandwich A Day, I wanted to prove that consistent, simple efforts could change lives. The people we serve often express that it’s not just about the food; it’s about being seen and valued. The impact goes beyond the physical nourishment—it’s a gesture of human connection and care. I’ve witnessed how communities become stronger when people look out for each other. It’s a ripple effect, and I’m grateful to be part of it.

How do you balance your entrepreneurial ventures with your charity work and personal wellness? 

Balance is an ongoing journey, but my personal wellness practices, like pilates and mindful nutrition, keep me grounded. I schedule time for self-care with the same importance as a business meeting. Being well helps me give more effectively to others, whether it’s through my skincare line or charity work. And honestly, the fulfillment I get from A Sandwich A Day gives me a sense of purpose that fuels everything else. Each area of my life supports the other, like a well-choreographed dance.

What challenges have you faced in the beauty industry, and how have they shaped your philosophy?

Navigating the beauty industry as a brand rooted in wellness and ethics was a challenge. Early on, I faced skepticism about whether consumers would embrace vegan, plant-based skincare. But I stood by my vision, believing that beauty should enhance our well-being without compromising the planet or ethical values. It was an uphill battle, but the success of Schique, especially being featured on TVSN and carried by major retailers, validated my philosophy. The industry taught me to stay true to my principles, even when it meant taking a more difficult path.

Why do you emphasize the importance of ethical and sustainable practices in your skincare line?

Our planet and our well-being are intertwined, and I can’t separate the two. Creating Schique with vegan, sustainable ingredients wasn’t just a branding choice; it was a moral one. The idea is to offer beauty solutions that people can feel good about, knowing they’re not harming the environment or using unethical practices. We deserve to care for our skin without compromising our health or the health of our planet. It’s a small but essential step toward a more compassionate, responsible way of living.

What advice do you have for others looking to make a difference in their communities?

Start small, and start now. Sometimes the scale of societal issues can feel overwhelming, but impactful change often comes from simple, consistent actions. Find a need that speaks to your heart, as I did with A Sandwich A Day, and commit to addressing it, even in seemingly small ways. Don’t underestimate the power of compassion and consistency. Also, remember that your own well-being matters. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so take care of yourself as you work to uplift others.

I’m excited to expand my focus on wellness beyond skincare and into broader lifestyle practices. I want to bring more resources to people that empower them to live healthier, more connected lives.

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