Life & Work with Katrina Samuels of Wake Forest, NC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Katrina Samuels.

Hi Katrina, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
First and foremost, I give all honor to my Lord and Savior, who guides every step of my journey. My path into entrepreneurship began later in life, but it began with purpose.

At 58, I found myself reflecting on what the next chapter of my life would look like. I had built a stable career working full-time as an IT Support Specialist, but deep down I felt there was something more I was being called to do. During that season of reflection, I felt a clear conviction that it was time to use the gift I had been given — natural hair care.

With faith and determination, I applied for my business license in North Carolina, and K’Natural Locs, LLC was born. I wanted to approach this new chapter with excellence, so I enrolled in the Natural Hair Care program at Durham Tech’s School of Cosmetic Arts. For six months, I attended evening classes while continuing to work full-time. In June 2022, I graduated with honors, and shortly after, I earned my North Carolina Cosmetic License for Natural Hair Care.

After becoming licensed, I transformed the sunroom in my home into a professional salon studio. Today, I specialize in traditional locs and microlocs, with a strong emphasis on healthy hair practices and scalp wellness. As my business grew, I expanded into product development and launched my own line of natural rose water hydrating mists and nourishing oils designed to support healthy loc maintenance.

What began as a step of faith has grown into a thriving, purpose-driven business. My journey is proof that it is never too late to walk boldly in your calling and build something meaningful.

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?
definitely has not been a completely smooth road — but every challenge has helped shape me into a stronger business owner.

One of the biggest hurdles was starting a business later in life while still working full-time in IT. Balancing evening classes, studying, family responsibilities, and maintaining excellence at my job required discipline and sacrifice. There were moments of physical exhaustion and times when I questioned whether I was taking on too much.

Another challenge was building credibility in a competitive industry. I wanted to ensure I wasn’t just passionate, but properly trained and licensed. Investing in education, equipment, and creating a professional salon space required both financial commitment and faith. As with any new business, building a consistent client base also took time, patience, and persistence.

There were moments of doubt — but never defeat. Each obstacle strengthened my confidence and reaffirmed that I was walking in purpose. I’ve learned that growth requires stretching, and success requires consistency. Looking back, I’m grateful for the challenges because they refined both my character and my business.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a licensed Natural Hair Care Specialist and founder of K’Natural Locs, LLC, I specialize in traditional locs and microlocs with a strong emphasis on healthy hair and scalp care. My work focuses on maintaining the integrity of the hair while helping clients achieve a polished, well-groomed look that reflects confidence and pride in their natural crown.

I am known for my attention to detail, consistency, and gentle approach to loc maintenance. Healthy locs require more than styling — they require knowledge, patience, and a commitment to proper technique. I take time to educate my clients on moisture balance, scalp health, and long-term maintenance so they can sustain healthy hair between appointments.

One of the things I am most proud of is launching my own natural hair care line featuring rose water hydrating mists and nourishing oils. These products were thoughtfully developed to address dryness and scalp concerns while supporting healthy loc growth. Expanding into product development has allowed me to extend my care beyond the salon and provide solutions tailored specifically for the loc community.

What sets me apart is that I combine professionalism, licensed training, and purpose-driven service. I entered this field later in life with intention, discipline, and faith — and I treat it as both a craft and a calling. My goal is not just to style hair, but to create an experience rooted in excellence, education, and empowerment.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
truly believe mentorship and networking are essential for growth in any industry. I have been blessed to connect with some incredible women in the natural hair community who have poured into me in so many ways — from refining technique and improving speed to setting business goals and operating strategically.

My advice for finding a mentor is to first remain teachable. Be willing to learn, receive feedback, and invest in your own development. Sometimes mentorship doesn’t always begin formally — it can start through attending classes, workshops, industry events, or even engaging respectfully on social media platforms where professionals share their expertise.

What has worked well for me is intentionally placing myself in rooms — both virtual and in person — where growth is happening. I’ve attended trainings, asked questions, observed others who were operating at a level I aspired to reach, and built genuine relationships rather than transactional ones.

Networking, in my experience, is about community, not competition. When you approach others with authenticity and a willingness to learn, doors open. Surrounding yourself with knowledgeable, purpose-driven professionals accelerates both skill development and confidence.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knaturallocs/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KNaturallocs