When I reflect on my time in cosmetology school, there’s a recurring frustration that comes to mind.
I spent 11 months in a predominantly white institution, where I was underrepresented along with many others from different cultural backgrounds. As someone deeply passionate about textured hair care, it was disheartening to realize how little attention was given to the unique needs of textured hair. While we spent countless hours on techniques for straight, fine hair, the textured hair community was barely acknowledged.
This experience cut deep for me. I was often asked to assist my classmates with textured styling—something the curriculum barely covered. Yet, I was never compensated or even given a discount on my tuition for essentially helping to fill the gap the program should have addressed. The frustration built over time, especially when the school’s owner would pick students for demonstrations, and never once did he choose a Black student. Not only did he fail to engage with students like myself, but he never acknowledged his own lack of knowledge or even showed interest in learning about textured hair care.
Imagine paying $22,000 to an institution that doesn’t see you, that doesn’t value the cultural diversity you bring, and that certainly doesn’t prioritize inclusion in its teaching. I am still furious at how that particular program operates to this day.
Learning from a Broken System
Despite my anger, this experience shaped my resolve. I am passionate about ensuring that my future students will never feel invisible the way I did. If I ever open my own cosmetology school, I know exactly what not to do. I won’t just take money from students without providing a state-of-the-art education. I will create an environment that is inclusive of all textures, races, and cultural backgrounds—because that’s what every cosmetology student deserves.
Offering Textured Hair Education in My Salon
That’s why I’m proud to offer textured hair courses within my salon suite. I know firsthand how the needs of textured hair are often overlooked in formal education settings, so I’ve made it my mission to bridge that gap. I provide one-on-one training, both in person and virtually, to share the knowledge and skills that most cosmetology schools aren’t legally required to teach.
These sessions are designed to give students practical, hands-on experience with textured hair—something I wish I had received more of during my time in school. Whether you’re a cosmetology student, a stylist looking to expand your skillset, or simply someone interested in learning how to care for textured hair, I’m here to teach you the techniques and knowledge you need to thrive in the beauty industry.
The beauty industry must evolve to truly represent and serve everyone, and continuing education in textured hair is a vital part of that growth. I’m committed to creating an inclusive learning space where every student feels seen, heard, and valued—because that’s what every future stylist deserves.
With love:
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