Today we’d like to introduce you to Janet Jackson.
Janet, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Originally, it all started with a part-time job in a salon. I was hired to do general duties, such as assisting hairstylists, answering phones, keeping the space tidy, etc… Eventually, my duties there began to include shampooing and preparing clients for the stylists, etc. Next thing I knew I had a small clientele of my own! My journey in hair started off as a part-time job, to collect a check! Today, I am an international Beauty Expert and Celebrity Hairstylist. Now, I’m into a career that not only did I become extremely passionate about; but now dedicated and invested to change and make my imprint in the Canadian Beauty Industry!
Today, I’m the Owner and Creative Director of JouJou Hair Studio for the past 12 years and counting; where I lead and mentor a team of artists. With over 20 years in the industry, I also share my beauty expertise on various television platforms. I get the opportunity to educate viewers and to do makeovers; where I transform individuals into the best versions of themselves.
I am the Brand Ambassador for Maui Moisture, Dannyco and Denman. I represent these brands in various events across North America – such as Essence Festival, ABA’s (Allied Beauty Association), etc. Most recently, I just spoke as a panelist alongside a dynamic group of personalities, at the We Rise Brunch, sharing topics on female entrepreneurship, empowerment and inspiration.
Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to have opportunities to work closely with celebrities at the BET Hip Hop Awards, The JUNO’s and Much Music Video Awards. In addition to being on CTV/The Social (https://www.ctv.ca/TheSocial), The Marilyn Denis Show, and CityTV/Cityline as a Beauty Expert, I’ve made numerous appearances on TV; worked on So You Think You Can Dance Canada seasons 1,2,3 ; as the lead hairstylist for Canada’s Next Top Model, Season 2 and Iman’s personal hairstylist for Project Runway Canada Seasons 1 & 2. Aside from being blessed to work with one of the world’s most recognizable Supermodels, I’ve also worked with more notable celebrities such as Winnie Harlow, Rita Ora, Keshia Chante, Kreesha Turner, Usher, Miguel, Black Eyed Peas, Deborah Cox, and the list goes on…
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Journey on what particularly? I can say that I’ve been through many journeys…
From a business aspect… it’s not smooth because you’re forced to deal with various personalities. Not only from staff but with clients; and juggling that while running a business can be mind-boggling. With the business aspect, it’s about taking those chances — it’s really based on taking risks. You never really know if things are gonna go quite the way that you planned it too, but it’s about taking these risks and either learning from your mistakes or soaring through it as a winner.
The journey from an artist standpoint… it’s a bit frustrating not seeing myself represented, especially within the Beauty Industry. The journey has been somewhat discouraging because you’re taking all these changes and trying to be INCLUDED in the industry as much as possible and um… how would I put this? I was basically going after something that I didn’t know existed if that makes sense. This journey has not been smooth… but my intentions are to make it smoother for the new/younger hairstylists that intend to follow this journey.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about JouJou Hair Studio – what should we know?
Using my education from various schools in Toronto and the U.S., I’ve grown the ability to groom, cut, color and style all hair types. I’m recognized for my specialization and experience working with wigs and hair extensions which inspires me to pass on my craft by helping people understand the creative potential of hair.
What differentiates myself and JouJou Hair Studio from others in our field; and has aided in the success and longevity of my career is my expertise in working with all hair types and textures. I believe those hair barriers are meant to be broken and it’s my passion (and calling) to use my craft to help people understand the artistry of ALL hair.
Most recently, I was recognized as a Women of Influence, in Salon Magazine’s November/December 2019 issue. This is a proud moment for myself because it illustrates that the Canadian industry is actually beginning to recognize my hard work and dedication in this field.
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well-positioned for?
Well, not only am I a woman, but I’m also a woman of colour. Period. Being both of those, I feel like the biggest barrier has been having to work x10000 as harder to be recognized for my talent and effort like my counterparts. The fact that I’m yet to see someone else like myself at the top of the Canadian Beauty Industry is very discouraging but I’m not going to let that stop me from continuing to climb.
Contact Info:
- Address: 855 Browns Line
Etobicoke, ON
M8W 3V7 - Website: www.joujouhairstudio.com
- Phone: 416-255-4247
- Email: joujouhairstudio@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/janetjacksonhairstylist.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/janetjacksonhairstylist
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/joujouhair
- Other: www.instagram.com/joujouhair
Image Credit:
Photographer: Desiree Thomas @adesiredjourney
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
