Today we’d like to introduce you to Aissa Valdy.
Hi Aissa, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up in Cincinnati, surrounded by strong women, my mother’s braiding skills left an amazing mark on me. Watching her, an immigrant from Senegal, raise four children while mastering her craft was so inspiring. From a young age, I was drawn to the art of braiding, practicing on my dolls, and assisting my mother by the age of 13.
As I grew older, I embraced braiding as not just a skill, but a connection to my Senegalese heritage. In Africa, braiding is more than just a hairstyle; it’s a cultural tradition, a form of self-expression, and a means of community connection. I carried this significance with me, infusing each braid with pride and reverence for my roots.
By 16, I seized the opportunity to braid my classmates’ hair for a fee, stepping into the role of an entrepreneur with excitement and determination. With each braid, I celebrated my heritage and empowered those I braided, embodying the resilience and tradition of African hair braiding.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Building a clientele in Ohio was tough, especially as I worked to separate myself from the negative stigmas surrounding African hair braiders. I had to prove my professionalism and worth, showing that my braids were not just hairstyles but works of art rooted in tradition.
Unfortunately, I also had more than one experience with theft, which was disheartening and frustrating. It taught me to be vigilant and to take necessary precautions to protect my business.
Moving to a new city was another hurdle. I had to leave behind the clientele I had worked hard to build and start over. Rebuilding from scratch in a different environment was tough, but it also pushed me to adapt and grow as a braider and as a businesswoman. Despite the challenges, each obstacle I faced only made me more determined to succeed in my craft.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in both traditional and trending braiding styles, drawing inspiration from the rich heritage of African braiding while staying in tune with the latest trends. Whether it’s classic cornrows or intricate feed-in braids, I aim to create styles that are not only beautiful but also culturally meaningful.
I’m known for my efficiency and quality. Clients appreciate my attention to detail and my ability to deliver amazing results in a timely manner. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve honed my craft to ensure that every braid I create is a masterpiece.
What sets me apart from others is my commitment to community. Instead of gatekeeping my knowledge and skills, I strive to uplift and support other braiders. I believe in the power of collaboration and mentorship, and I’m always willing to share my expertise to help others succeed in the industry.
As for what I’m most proud of, it’s the sense of empowerment I see in my clients when they look in the mirror and see themselves transformed by my braids. Knowing that I’ve helped them feel confident and beautiful is truly rewarding and fuels my passion for what I do every day.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I love most about Austin, Texas, is the vibrant culture and diverse community. There’s always something happening, from live music events to cultural festivals and opportunities, and the city has a unique blend of creativity and innovation that’s truly inspiring.
However, one aspect I find challenging is the rapid growth and development, which can sometimes lead to traffic congestion and affordability issues. As the city continues to expand, it’s important to prioritize sustainability and inclusivity.
Contact Info:
- Website: Beautybyaissa.as.me
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beautybyaissa?igsh=MTF3dG90M2FueXNqdw==
Image Credits
@beautybyaissa
