Life & Work with Kimberly J. Stevens of McDonough

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly J. Stevens.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m not just building a career—I’m building a legacy.

As a mother of two, I have been moving through life with purpose stitched into everything I do. I have been a Braider since the age of 14. In 2017, I became a licensed cosmetologist, not just to style hair, but to uplift confidence, restore identity, and remind people of their worth. By 2019, I stepped into ownership, creating more than a salon—but creating a space where transformation happened from the inside out.

My passion didn’t stop there. In 2021, I became a licensed cosmetology instructor, pouring knowledge into the next generation. Not only to just teach technique—I taught discipline, self-belief, and excellence. My students saw more than an instructor; they saw a leader who had walked the path and was reaching back to bring others forward.

To my children, I am proof that dreams require work, faith, and resilience. Without a doubt I lead by example, showing them what it means to stand tall, serve others, and never settle.

As a servant leader to my church—quietly impacting lives, giving, guiding, and showing up where I am needed most. Understanding that true leadership isn’t about recognition, but about service.

And one day, the world will recognize what those closest to me already know: my impact is undeniable. Through the gift in my hands, my strong voice, and big heart, shaping lives, building confidence, and leaving a mark that will reach far beyond my community.

Again I am not just building a name—I am and will be a legacy of service, strength, and purpose.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Quotes I enjoy reciting when faced with life challenges:

“Storms don’t come to break you, they come to reveal your strength.”

“Diamonds are not made in comfort- they’re formed in adversity.”

“The harder the pressure, the brighter you Shine.”

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a Licensed Cosmetologist, I specialize in:
•All Natural Hair Care
•Well known as an Advanced Braider
•Award Winning Fastasy Hair Competitor
•Soon to be a Hair Loss Specialist

I am mostly proud of how far I have come in this industry of Hair. Also taking a leap of faith & orchestrating Hair Shows at Paul Mitchell The School Atlanta. Allowing students to express their creativity and to think outside the box of everyday Hairstyling; it fills my heart with a great amount of joy to see it all come to reality.

It’s quite hard to answer what sets me apart from others. When my focus is only the vision & gifts God has given me. I am my own competition.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Growing closer to God is everything to me, seeing my kids grow into becoming young adults; whom will be great leaders of their generation, gaining knowledge & continuing to grow in my business & career – last but not least speaking life into everyone I come in contact with (my clients), gaining their trust & gifting them a boost of confidence after every service.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Hairbymzkim
• Facebook: Hairbymzkim
• Twitter: Hairbymzkim