Daily Inspiration: Meet Sharteria Long

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharteria Long.

Hi Sharteria, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Growing up in the projects, you don’t just learn how to survive; you learn how to create something beautiful out of necessity. As the oldest of four girls, my sisters & a few of my childhood friends were my first “clients” and my constant inspiration.

In our household, hair wasn’t just about vanity; it was a bonding ritual. Being the eldest, the responsibility fell on me to make sure my sisters stepped out looking polished. Those hours spent braiding on the living room floor were where I discovered that I had a natural gift for transformation.

Every experience—from the lack of resources to the vibrant culture of the projects—fueled my ambition. I realized that my love for hair was more than a hobby; it was my ticket to building a legacy. I took that “project-taught” grit and applied it to professional training, refining my raw talent into a craft.

I don’t just style hair; I carry the stories of those four girls and every woman in the neighborhood who taught me that beauty is a form of resilience.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
They say the oldest child is the first draft, but in a house of four girls in the projects, I had to be the blueprint. My journey wasn’t paved with easy opportunities; it was paved with the responsibility of being a second mother and a shield for my sisters.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a hair stylist and transformation specialist. I am highly skilled in lace installs, traditional installs, and restoration of natural hair. I’m known for my precision and my ‘Big Sister’ energy. In my chair, you aren’t just a client; you’re someone I’m looking out for also. I am most proud of my resilience. I’m proud that I took the responsibility of being the eldest of four and turned it into a career. Turning a survival skill into a thriving business is my greatest achievement. What sets me apart is my perspective. I didn’t learn to do hair by anyone nor took a class; I’m self taught, I learned it in the trenches of a busy household where time was short and expectations were high.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Like: everyone is working toward a dream

Least like: they’re afraid there isn’t enough room at the top

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thasha.experiencee?igsh=MWxsdWhoYTFuZnFrag%3D%3D&utm_source=qr