Meet Ginette Nean of CONYERS

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ginette Nean.

Hi Ginette, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m Ginette Nean, originally from the Ivory Coast, West Africa. At just 16, I moved to New Jersey with dreams of creating a life that mattered. I started as a braider and, through hard work and determination, earned my cosmetology license through an apprenticeship. Over the past 24 years as a stylist and 14 years as a salon owner, I’ve encountered countless challenges and made my share of mistakes. But I’ve learned that mistakes aren’t failures—they’re stepping stones to growth and success. Each lesson shaped me into the person I am today, living and working with purpose.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No — it hasn’t been a smooth road.

I started in 1999 as a braider when I first moved to the U.S. I met my then-husband, moved to Georgia, and kept working in salons, building my name one client at a time. I earned my cosmetology license through an apprenticeship, and for a season I even ran my salon out of my house—doing what I had to do to keep growing.

Then life got real. I went through a divorce, and I still had to show up, provide, and keep building. In 2010, I opened Djea, but stability didn’t come easy. After four years, I had to move because the building was sold. The next location came with a dishonest landlord, and I had to leave again. After two more years, I found another space—but by then I was determined to stop building my dream in places I didn’t control.

When I tried to purchase my own shop, I ran into a bad contractor and lost my savings. It hurt, but I kept going and opened anyway. Then in May 2025, I walked into my salon on a Sunday and saw water pouring from a suite—damaging the entire floor. Half my business has been under construction for 10 months, but we stayed open because the other side was still functional.

So no, it hasn’t been smooth. But I’m still here—because I didn’t let the setbacks define me. I let them build me.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Ginette Nean is a master cosmetologist with 20 years of experience in the hair industry. Her commitment to excellence is evident through her ongoing education and training, including programs with Inspiring Champions, Kolor Kulture, @Leysahairandmakeup and CutItKinky, as well as guest styling at the renowned Paul Mitchell School. Currently, she is enhancing her expertise in trichology at The American Academy of Hair & Scalp Diseases, ensuring she remains at the forefront of hair health and care.

Originally from the Ivory Coast, Ginette is multilingual and has owned salons both internationally and in the U.S. for over 11 years. Her passion for her craft and dedication to her clients make her a standout in the hair industry.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
feeling buried alive never die by karol k truman, The Attributes by Rich Diviney, Boundaries by Henry Cloud, atomic habits by james clear

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ginettenean.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ginettenean/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djeagigi
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginette-nean-6a2b699a/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ginettenean