"Hairstylist"

BY ANNA GUROVA

She is a person who knows what it means to start again. To land in America with skill but without a place to put it, with confidence that flickers in and out like a weak signal. She’ll tell you about those early days, how she felt small at first, unsure of her English, unsure of herself…until the first brave step, the first new client, the first time someone insisted on paying more because they saw something in her she couldn’t yet see in herself.

Ever since I was young, I loved my hair and experimenting with different styles. I always knew I wanted to become a hairstylist, and I wanted to get to know people and help them find their style. I went to cosmetology school in Ukraine but never worked at a salon there. Instead, I just took loyal clients into my home like family and friends. 

When we made the hard choice to move to America, I didn't know if I was going to find the support and community I had in Ukraine. At first, it was tough, and I lacked the confidence for a new job. But then, I finally decided I was ready to start taking clients. I started off small, and I quickly learned just how generous and kind people could be when I started gaining popularity, and people gave me more money than I asked for. 

As I grew confident, I decided to further my education, and I started attending a cosmetology school. It was hard at first: I faced many challenges and kept to myself. Over time, I began to connect with my classmates, and their support made a huge difference. They helped me overcome obstacles, including challenges with my accent, and they encouraged me as I learned the material. Through their kindness and teamwork, I grew not only in skill but also in confidence. My experience there taught me the power of community, and it inspired me to seek out and contribute to a supportive environment just as amazing as that one.

Eventually, my hard work paid off, and I found a job at a salon. Even though I had to stop taking my loyal home clients, I quickly found a community that welcomed me and supported me. My new clients and I built meaningful connections; we learned to listen and understand each other. Through those relationships, I gained confidence not only in my skills but also in my ability to bring people together through my passion.

When I was diagnosed with cancer, the support I received from my coworkers and clients deeply moved me. They brought meals to my family and visited me during treatment. Through that experience, I realized that my work is about so much more than earning money: It’s about connection, care, and community. Being a hairstylist isn’t just my job; it’s my passion and a way to bring people together.