Meet Kenya J

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kenya J.

Kenya, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Growing up, I loved to get my hair done and look pretty. I would go to salons to get my hair done but it seems like it was always something I didn’t like about my hair. I’d go home and change my hair to the way I preferred the stylist to do it. After being able to continuously create the looks that fit me, is when I learned that doing hair came very natural for me. It was something I enjoyed, it became a hobby. I even started doing my friends hair. I wanted to learn more about what it takes to become a hairstylist. In addition, while in high school, part of my daily schedule was attending Maxwell High School of Technology. Maxwell High School is a school for a career and technical education, there I studied Cosmetology for one year and earned college credits.

Later, not right after high school, is when I discovered that creating a different look with hair is more than a hobby, that it’s my natural talent. Being able to create a look without being fully educated about it amazed me. I then decided to turn my talent into a career. January 2015 I launched my very own hairline, KenyaJ Hair, I created an online hair store to shop for my products. I offered four different textures of hair and also Lace front closures. Because I specialize in doing weaves, I wanted to provide a “one-stop-shop” to clients by not only doing their hair but providing the hair as well. After launching my online hair store I felt that if I was going to start a business I needed to do it the right way and go to cosmetology school to get licensed so I can obtain a business license. I applied for a cosmetology school in May 2015 and started in August 2015. I graduated in May 2017.

Since wigs were very popular again, and I am a person that wears them often, after graduation, I taught myself how to make a wig and added both Mink lashes and wigs to my collection. Now, it’s not just KenyaJ Hair anymore, my business has grown to KenyaJ hair extensions, wigs, and 3D Mink lashes. That is where I stand today within my career and business.

Has it been a smooth road?
This journey has been very tough for me yet rewarding at the same time. Attending cosmetology school was like having a full-time job. Monday-Thursday 9AM-3PM. So, I wasn’t able to work a full-time job during the day. I lived and fully supported myself. To make ends meet, I waitressed at night while still attending school. I also worked in a hair salon as an assistant to a stylist after school to help as well. It had its ups and downs and I would get frustrated at times; didn’t think I would get through, however, I stayed focus to achieve my ultimate goal.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with KenyaJ Hair – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
KenyaJ Hair stands for Kenya (ME), Jenkins is my last name. When people think of me, they think of Hair Extensions, Wigs and Hair Stylist. I named my brand after myself because it is a representation of me. I specialize in weaves, hair extensions, wigs, and Mink lashes.

My most proud moment as a company is others asking to work with me and being complimented on my presentation. I receive many of DM’s on Instagram from a lot of other women asking if I need an assistant or can I provide any knowledge on how they can get started in this Industry. I’m always complimented on my presentation and professionalism.

What sets me apart from others is my knowledge and my experience. I’m actually licensed and I have a lot of experience in the industry outside of my brand. I’ve had great opportunities to worked with very successful people in the industry that has aided me tremendously along my way. By networking and meeting new people, I’m a participant in the majority of the hair shows in the U.S. I’m an educator and Sales Representative for a popular hair tool company. I am able to connect with all markets whether It be Caucasian, Spanish, African American, Asian, etc. in this industry. So, my brand expands beyond KenyaJ Hair.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
Likes…

Atlanta is a great place to build an incredibly strong business or start a career. There is also always something to do, such as eating at great restaurants, activities/festivals and the nightlife is unmatched. The cost of living is very inexpensive. Atlanta is also very diverse.

Dislikes…

The traffic is terrible and you need a car to live here. The hair industry is oversaturated with hairstylists.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.kenyajhair.com
• Phone: 4049322406
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @kenyajhair

Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.