Meet Trailblazer Javonda Jackson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Javonda Jackson.

Javonda, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started doing hair at the age of 13, I’m now 29 so I’ve been involved in the beauty industry well over a decade. I was the neighborhood stylist back in my hometown Pompano Beach, FL doing hair for about $15-$25. Then, once I got to high school, I started doing more hair like my friends and family. They would refer other people to me. I was always that friend or family member everyone would run for either beauty or fashion tips. It was a necessity that I looked good anywhere I go. I don’t care if it was the local grocery store. I just feel every woman deserves to look and feel good in her own way you know? So, I could help achieve that why not? I believe that’s what I was put on earth to help other women feel confident. After graduating high school, I wanted to attend cosmetology school, however, my family wasn’t going for it. They just didn’t see a career for me in the hair industry being at that time, it wasn’t as popular as it is today. I was afraid to let my family down so I went off to college but that was the worst two years of my life. I wasn’t happy. I became resentful on top of becoming severely depressed and dealing with anxiety. I felt my world crashing. I was going against my purpose. I started to ditch class to do hair in my dorm. I moved off-campus and went through a major breakup with my ex-boyfriend. I wasn’t in a happy place at all. I promised myself that I would put myself first and follow my vision. College just wasn’t for me. I eventually end up moving back home with my grandparents. I was doing hair in my grandparent’s utility room while attending cosmetology school.

After graduating from cosmetology school, I passed my state board test and I became a licensed cosmetologist. No more “Kitchen Beautician” I moved up to working in different salons. Some worked out for me some didn’t but I just always knew I wanted to be my own boss. I started working & building my own brand GlamNovaj. My brand consisted of hair extensions. I was selling hair bundles, wigs, closures, frontals, etc to my clients as well as installing the hair for them. Eventually, things started to seem limited and boring for me. I wanted more. I wanted growth. I needed a new environment. I wanted to expand my brand. A year later, I stepped out on faith. Here I am today In Atlanta currently building and expanding my clientele as well as my brand. I also have my own salon suite where I service clients. I also travel to Los Angeles, California to do hair. Since I’ve moved to Atlanta, I’ve worked on sets and photoshoots with local artists and social media influencers. I’ve accomplished a lot in very little time here in Atlanta. I’m very proud of myself because had I not followed my vision I wouldn’t be where I am today. This is just the beginning. I’m not done yet.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I’d be lying if I said it’s been a smooth road. No way! I’ve faced many challenges along the way. I lost a couple of so-called friends. I battled depression and anxiety. I had days where I didn’t have any money to eat. There were times I couldn’t go on vacation with friends because I chose to invest that money in my craft. I had to roll with the punches of being laughed at and criticized for giving up what others thought was best for me to do vs what I wanted for myself. This journey wasn’t easy and still isn’t I still have my struggles, however, I know it’s only for the better. I sacrificed a lot to be where I am today and if I could do it all over again I most definitely would.

What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I’m pretty much a jack of all trades, to be honest. I can do hair, makeup & lashes which I’m certified in all three, however, my primary specialty is hair. I do sew-ins, quick weaves, lace wigs/frontals, micro links and I also make custom wig units. I also love coloring hair extensions which give hairstyles more flavor and I like for clients to step out of their comfort zone. What I love most about my brand being diverse. I offer services to any race, sex or gender. There’s no discrimination and there’s never too little or too much hair for me to work with. Anybody’s entitled to a SLAY. My number #1 goal is to be international. GlamNovaj will be all over the world.

Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
Finding a mentor is highly recommended. You don’t know everything and it’s ok not to know everything. A mentor can help steer you in the right direction even when you’re feeling discouraged. Networking is very vital when it comes to building your brand. Networking with others on or off social media can open up many doors. Your network determines your net worth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=13592871
• Phone: 5616748759
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glamnovaj/

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