Meet Shana Kersey of Zahara’s Artistry Hair Salon in Northeast Atlanta

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shana Kersey.

Shana, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My story began many years ago in my bedroom playing with my baby dolls. At the age of eight, I thoroughly enjoyed lining my dolls up and providing what I believed to be an exquisite salon experience. Cutting and styling my doll baby’s hair, all while mimicking the conversations of the salon. As a preteen, I began looking to make some money and what better way than to braid the hair of my sister’s friends! That was my introduction to what would become my staple in life. My desire to serve people comes from my relationship with God. I am thankful my gift allows me to help people feel good on the outside and somehow speak life on the inside. This journey has certainly been a rollercoaster; however, it has shaped me into the businesswoman, I am today.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Absolutely not. As my high school career ended, I made the decision to start my journey as a cosmetologist, or so I thought. My parents had other plans. Like most parents, they wanted what they believed was best for me, college. So, that’s what I did, but not for long! I moved to Atlanta, GA to attend a community college that I was not a fan of at all, but fate would have me right across the street from my alma mater. After attending community college for a year, I did it! I put my big girl pants on and followed my dream.

I applied for cosmetology school and was on my way to becoming this successful hairstylist in Atlanta, GA. I had just entered this very rebellious state of young adulthood and thought I was successfully “grabbing the bull by the horns,” a quote I heard many times to describe life. Shortly after committing what seemed to be a cardinal sin, I met a young man that appeared to be as free spirit as I was. This relationship became toxic and abusive, shifting my priorities. After what felt like a lifetime, my parents stepped in and moved me back to Maryland, literally saving my life. I had to quit school. Once I moved back home, I quickly started attending another Cosmetology school full time while working two jobs. It didn’t take long before life would throw its next curve ball. Living as an adult in your parents home can be very difficult. I had experienced life away from home and had a challenge readjusting to the rules of my parent’s home. My father uses to say, “If you don’t like my rules, you can leave.” That is exactly what I chose to do. I was determined to do things my way… I worked several jobs trying to survive and create this dream with very little success. Eventually, I decided to move back to Georgia. Again having to leave yet another school. I reapplied to the cosmetology I attended in Atlanta; surprisingly they accepted me. Three is a charm, or so I’ve heard. I made it my intent to complete school no matter what. In June of 2009, I graduated from Atlanta Technical College. It had been a long time coming.

Throughout the process, I’ve certainly battled my share of demons. If I can shed light on anything, it would be the constant desire to push forward. It was almost never easy, but life has taught me, it’s not what you go through but how you respond when you’re going through. I am thankful that God kept me through it all. In 2014, I partnered up with a close friend in efforts to learn and grow our business. That experience taught me so much about myself, my business, and my friendships. I am genuinely thankful for those lessons because they helped guide me to the path I’m on now. On February 1, 2019, with much love and support, I officially opened Zahara’s Artistry Hair Salon.

Please tell us about Zahara’s Artistry Hair Salon.
Zahara’s Artistry is not your typical hair salon. My mission is to provide healthy hair transformations while educating my clients on the proper hair care needs. I am similar to a hair doctor. I offer complimentary consultations and follow up plans for your hair goals. Zahara’s Artistry is a safe space where my clients can come to take off their armor, decompress, and lay their insecurities at rest. They often times leave with healthy bouncy hair, a drop of self-confidence and dose of inspiration.

If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
If I had the opportunity to do this over, I would have been more intentional about starting my journey sooner. I would have focused on my needs and developing a stronger foundation for discipline and consistency. Finding balance has been pivotal on this quest. Instead of attempting to be everything to everyone, I’d find solace in being unapologetically who I am, determined.

Contact Info:

• Address: 2176 Henderson Mill Rd. Atlanta, GA 30345
• Website: www.salonlofts.com/shana_kersey
• Phone: 202-492-6765
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: zaharasartistry
• Facebook: zaharasartistry

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