THE CHANGE-MAKERS
It’s Black History Month, and the perfect time to meet four change-makers who are truly inspiring in their communities, as well as in the beauty industry as a whole. Building their businesses with savvy, drive, plenty of heart, and a true passion for hairdressing, these women are setting an example of excellence and influence. In Joico’s continued commitment to see change and not just elevate but celebrate diversity and under-represented voices, this first installment of this two-part series, you’re going to hear exactly how they’ve climbed to the top.
Artist: Shannon Michea
Shannon Michea Studios in Webster, TX @shannonmichea
With a passion for healthy hair and books that are filled weeks in advance, this talented community advocate has a true commitment to fostering other local Black-owned businesses.
HER SALON’S CLAIM TO FAME
“Shannon Michea Studios is known for healthy hair. I love working with my clients to get their hair to a healthy place, so they can meet their goals for length, fullness, color, or all of the above! I communicate about the styles, products, and home care that are needed, in addition to the services I provide.”
HER SECRET TO SUCCESS
“I would like to say my personality, professionalism, and care make me successful. In this industry, the most important thing is to create a trustworthy relationship with your clients. I feel that being personable, consistent with professionalism, and demonstrating genuine care for the health and well-being of my clients allows me to build the trust that makes for a great relationship.”
ON GIVING BACK TO THE BLACK COMMUNITY
“When I grew up, those who supported me made a positive impact on my life and — in a way — shaped my perception of myself. I give back by supporting other Black-owned businesses … including the hair products I use in the salon, the clothes I wear, the re
SHE KNEW SHE’D “MADE IT” WHEN
“I was booked a whole month in advance!”
BIGGEST INSPIRATION
“My Dad. He’s such an amazing person…he’s caring, has a great work ethic, and he’s dedicated his life to taking care of his family and fulfilling his responsibilities.” In ten years…
“I see Shannon Michea Studios as a successful salon staffed with creative, professional, fun beauty artists. I envision it being a safe place for women and men to come and receive beauty services that uplift them and that check their “self-care” box.”
MY FAVORITE JOICO PRODUCT
“Moisture Recovery Conditioner. I love the way it detangles natural, thick, and curly hair like a breeze. It also leaves moisture in the hair, even after rinsing.”
Kendra Hodge Khroma Hair Studio
Pearland, TX @ms_kendra_
Empowering and mentoring colleagues is everything to this driven beauty entrepreneur. Especially to other women of color.
HOW IT ALL STARTED
“I’ve always known I would become a hairstylist. Even at a young age, I felt this passion for hair seeping out of my pores. I started taking clients in my room during high school; offering simple styles. In 2009, I started cosmetology school, and shortly thereafter became a receptionist at a well-known salon in the mall. In March of 2011, I officially became licensed. There is no greater feeling than seeing my clients eyes light up at the sight of a new hairstyle. To this day, I genuinely love what I do.”
HER SALON’S CLAIM TO FAME
“Our number-one service in the salon is the silk press, our custom color, and our customer service. I believe that treating people with respect and love is what makes Khroma so successful. We also love to share our expertise with clients on how to care, maintain and love their hair; while providing a healthy atmosphere for our stylists to learn and grow as an individuals.
ON GIVING BACK TO THE BLACK COMMUNITY
“As the owner, I love mentoring all women — but especially women that look like me. I love sharing all the knowledge I have learned over the years, especially when it comes to the business side of being a hairstylist/salon owner. Some Black salon owners tend to have a “crab in the barrel” mentally and are not willing to share information. My goal has always been to empower and give knowledge to help someone become better and not make the same mistakes that I did.”
SHE KNEW SHE “MADE IT” WHEN
“The day I got licensed. The joy it brings in allowing me to do what I absolutely love is amazing. Every day, I work towards expanding my dream so that I may create generational wealth for my family.”
BIGGEST INSPIRATION
“My 87-year-old Grandma and my Dad. Their drive, experience in business, hustle, and never-give-up mentally are the qualities that I will always take with me.”
In ten years…
“I see my business as a franchise salon and spa located on the outskirts of major cities all over the world. I see all of the beauty professionals that I have helped blossoming in their careers. I will no longer be behind the chair, but I will be thriving as a business consultant helping other beauty professionals be successful in this industry.”
MY FAVORITE JOICO PRODUCT
“It’s hard to narrow it down but I would have to say that it’s the LumiShine Copper tones: I love the NC’s, NRG’s, and the 7CC. The color is so vibrant and the hair still looks healthy and feels amazing. Coloring hair takes me to my happy place where I become Picasso with my canvas of hair strands.”
Joico is committed to its three pillars in diversity equity and inclusion: change from within, champion diversity, and teach + learn through our channels. Keep connecting with us here, on web, and on social, as we work to show you our true colors.
