Story & Lesson Highlights with Wileen Johnson of Gwinnett County

We recently had the chance to connect with Wileen Johnson and have shared our conversation below.

Wileen, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I believe one of the biggest struggles people carry quietly is their mental health. Anxiety, depression, and burnout are more common than most of us realize, yet they’re often hidden behind smiles, achievements, or busy schedules. Many people feel pressure to appear strong, so they mask their pain instead of admitting they’re overwhelmed. Stigma plays a huge role in this silence—no one wants to be judged as “weak” or “unstable.” But the truth is, mental health is just as important as physical health, and pretending everything is fine only makes the weight heavier. If more people felt safe to speak openly about their struggles, we’d realize just how many of us are fighting similar battles, and that vulnerability could actually become a bridge for connection and healing.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Wileen Johnson, and I am a licensed master cosmetologist, wife, mother of three, and founder of WJ Hair Extension. I specialize in custom wig design, natural hair care, color transformations, and extension services. At WJ Hair Extension, my brand is all about blending artistry with authenticity—I don’t just style hair, I create looks that allow people to feel more like themselves, whether that’s through a bold new color, a protective style, or a custom glueless wig.

What makes my work special is the personal connection I build with each client. I truly believe hair is more than just appearance—it’s tied to self-expression, healing, and even identity. Being able to play a role in that journey is what inspires me every day.

Right now, I’m working on expanding my bridal and custom wig collections, while also building an educational side of WJ Hair Extension to help others learn techniques that empower both stylists and clients. My goal is to not only transform hair but also to uplift the people sitting in my chair and those who follow my work.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
I would say I learned the most about work from both of my parents, but in very different ways. My dad showed me the value of a strong work ethic—he worked a traditional 9-to-5 and taught me the importance of discipline, consistency, and showing up every day with integrity. On the other hand, my mom inspired me entrepreneurially. Watching her build and run her own business gave me the courage to pursue my own path and showed me what it looks like to create something that’s truly yours. Together, their examples shaped the balance I carry today between hard work, structure, and the freedom to dream bigger.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that has held me back the most is the fear of failure. For a long time, I worried about not being good enough or making mistakes, and that kept me from taking certain risks or stepping fully into opportunities. Over time, I’ve learned that failure is part of growth, and every misstep teaches you something valuable. I’m still a work in progress, but now I try to see fear as a sign that I’m pushing myself into new territory—and that’s where the real growth happens.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies in the beauty industry is the idea that “one look fits all” or that beauty has a single standard. For too long, the industry has pushed narrow definitions of what’s considered beautiful, often overlooking the diversity of hair textures, skin tones, and personal styles. Another lie is that quick fixes or trendy shortcuts can replace healthy, consistent care—true beauty and confidence come from embracing authenticity, not just following the next viral look.

At WJ Hair Extension, I push back against those myths by focusing on individuality. Every wig, every style, every color transformation I create is meant to highlight the uniqueness of the person wearing it. Beauty isn’t about fitting into a mold—it’s about expressing who you are.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Absolutely. I believe in giving my best no matter who’s watching or if praise ever comes. For me, excellence is about integrity and pride in my own work, not outside validation. Whether it’s with my business, WJ Hair Extension, or in my role as a wife and mother of three, I’ve learned that the real reward is knowing I showed up fully and gave my all. Praise may come and go, but the standard I hold myself to will always remain.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://wjhairextensions.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wjhairextensions?igsh=MTB6YTlxa2lwMTlwMg==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1G8TKigmm5/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Image Credits
Adaja White

AWshotme LLC