2025 Students of Distinction

Izzie Biseto: A resilient spirit finding strength in beauty

Gig Harbor Now is posting profiles featuring the Students of Distinction being honored by the Greater Gig Harbor Foundation. Peers, teachers or parents nominate students, who must be a graduating senior at a Peninsula School District school. A panel of community leaders selects students to be honored in one of seven categories: academics; athletics; career and technical excellence; community service; music, arts and drama; overcoming adversity; and science and technology.

These students will be celebrated during a banquet from 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Ocean5, 5268 Point Fosdick Dr.

School: Henderson Bay High School

Category: Overcoming Adversity

For Izzie Bisesto, resilience isn’t just a word – it’s a way of life. Growing up, Izzie faced more than her fair share of adversity. From navigating the pain of her parents’ divorce to the heartbreaking loss of her older sister to bone cancer, she experienced challenges that could have easily derailed her future. Struggling with identity, grief, and bullying during her early high school years, Izzie reached a breaking point. But it was in that moment, after running away from home and choosing to return, that she realized she was ready for change.

Transferring to Henderson Bay High School was a turning point. With smaller class sizes, deeper connections with teachers, and a more personalized approach to learning, Izzie began to believe in her own potential. Slowly, the rebellious girl with failing grades transformed into a student who embraced growth, showed up with purpose, and earned straight A’s. She reconnected with her family, rebuilt trust, and found the courage to dream.

Izzie Bisesto

That dream took shape when Izzie discovered her passion for nail art. After watching a tutorial online, she decided to try it herself. She saved up for supplies, practiced on a fake finger, and offered free nail services to her friends. What started as a hobby quickly became a calling. Today, Izzie continues to build her skills with precision and pride, preparing to enroll in Evergreen Beauty College to pursue her license as a professional nail technician.

Her journey — from academic struggles and personal loss to high achievement and newfound direction — is a testament to her strength, focus, and emotional maturity. “I’ve learned that I am strong and capable of being a great person that can reach my goals no matter how difficult it is to get there,” she says.

With a calm, collected approach to adversity and a heart full of empathy, Izzie has not only rewritten her own story – she’s begun inspiring others through it. And as she steps into a future shaped by beauty, creativity, and compassion, there’s no doubt she’s just getting started.