Ruth Laviera Sánchez is an Afro-Puerto Rican hair, makeup, and fashion stylist who has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. She has collaborated with numerous iconic figures, including Celia Cruz, Cicely Tyson, Diana Ross, and Donna Summer. Born in Santurce, Puerto Rico, Ruth moved to the Lower East Side of New York City in 1960, where she began to build her illustrious career.

Ruth was Celia Cruz’s personal hair stylist for over 40 years, creating the legendary hairstyles that became synonymous with Celia’s image. She was responsible for nearly all of Celia’s album covers from the early 1980s until Celia’s passing in 2003. Ruth traveled the world alongside Celia and her husband, Pedro Knight, and was more than just a stylist; she was like a sister to Celia, sharing countless unforgettable moments both on and off the stage.