April 26, 2022
Today we’d like to introduce you to Alisha Hinton.
Hi Alisha, 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?
As an educator and mentor, I spent most of my time with at-risk adolescents. Taking time to learn them, I understood some of their issues and family situations. Having a side hustle as a braider, I found ways to create a safe learning space and incorporate braiding as part of my mentor sessions. I later realized these kids needed an outlet and I wanted to help more. My business began to thrive more during the pandemic. I purchased a journal & decided to write ways I could help families. I decided to quit my job as a teacher and pursue my business full time. My vision led me to create programs to help build stronger families. I have a program where I teach braiding to youth. I also have a program at the local jail where I teach incarcerated women entrepreneurship & braiding with hopes of reducing the recidivism rate in the future. I incorporated a program where I help adoption and foster families better understand hair care of brown children and how to do their hair.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
The struggles have been building the presence to make people know about my business & the ways I can help. Also, setting a strong foundation for business and getting the mindset of treating business like business was a struggle in the very beginning.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Lisha Lou?
What I specialize in is creating beautiful braid styles for individuals who desire a protective style. Alongside that I educate families on hair care and how to create protective hair styles themselves.
What sets me apart is the overall professional experience and expertise. Clients and students feel as though I’m relatable.
I’m most proud of the fact that I created a vision and stuck with, all while doing several things in my business that I love dearly. What I do not only helps me but impacts the masses.
I want readers to know that I’m available to help them, outside of just providing braid services. I’m able to help familes as a whole.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I truly believe if you aren’t able to bet on yourself, you can’t expect anyone else to. I know people have fear but I can attest to having faith and making moves while trusting God in the process. I use to say I “fake it til I make it”… but now I say “I FAITH it til I make it… and then I keep going”. You never lose, you only win and learn. I heard that somewhere and it stuck with me.