Youth Braider Mentorship Program
There are several adolescents in need of mentorship, and Knot Your Average Academy (KYAA) has implemented a unique way to offer that support. As part of our programs, we have the Knot Your Average Braider Youth Braid Camp, where we provide braid training and mentorship for children. Together, the class discusses life, school, careers, goals, and much more. Students also learn the skill of braiding. It has been a phenomenal experience to see how they are gaining more confidence in their ability to braid, to the point where they are now accepting new clients of their own.
The skills our students learn will help them gain financial independence over time. As braiders, they can earn money to purchase school clothes, create savings, and/or do some things they'd like on their own dime. Knot Your Average Braider Youth Braid Camp is dedicated to serving the community & has partnered with local Nonprofit organizations to provide braid camps, supporting youth empowerment.
"I learned how to do knotless braids. Also, how to feed in weave as well as how much money you want to charge per hour...We learned about if our future business offerings were tangible or intangible. We talked about different ways to make money and how much to charge for it. Ms Lisha taught us about entrepreneurship and self employment."
- Anmariya (KYAA Student)
"I learned to do knotless. It was very hard at first but I got the hang of it and it was easier. I learned how to do portion sizes and I learned how to part. I also learned how to manage money."
- Shugg (KYAA Student)
"Ms. Lisha taught me how to underhand braid, braid with weave and do cornrows and knotless braids. I also learned what entrepreneurship is, what tangible and intangible means, and how much money I will make with my future business. I learned not to give up on my work. "
- Hannah (KYAA Student)
"With Ms Lisha Lou I learned how to do knotless braids on a mannequin. I learned about how much money I need to buy an iphone and how to never give up on my dreams because you will succeed in whatever you want. I learned how to manage the money I make and how many dollars I want to make an hour."
- Gabrielle (KYAA Student)
