Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Chatwaka Jackson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Chatwaka thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your creative career sooner or later?

This is something I’ve often reflected on, but I truly believe that God’s timing is always perfect. Looking back, if I had started my career earlier, my drive, passion, and even the path I’ve taken might have looked completely different.

I actually began my journey into cosmetology while I was still in high school. I made sure my grades were in order so that during my senior year, I could enroll in the cosmetology program. But, unexpectedly, family issues arose and I missed that opportunity.

After high school, I moved to St. Louis to join a program called Job Corps. They had promised to send me to school, but that never came to pass. Instead, I completed a business certificate. Even then, I never stopped doing hair—it was always something I was passionate about.

After finishing the program in St. Louis, I moved back home and enrolled in beauty school. However, it didn’t feel like the right fit for me. I later returned to St. Louis and began working at St. Louis Job Corps. I stayed there for 10 years, continuing to do hair for friends and family out of my home on the side.

After being let go from that job, I took a leap of faith and enrolled at Paul Mitchell The School St. Louis. That’s when my official journey as a full-time entrepreneur in cosmetology truly began.

I honestly wouldn’t change a thing about my journey because even pursuing my career when I did, it allow me to be aligned. I believe with the amazing people that I have a chance to work with and continue to work with, and it led me to relocate to California, where I continue to pursue my career and film in television, and now that I am part of the Local 706 Union , my career continues to grow, and I am so grateful for that.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Chatwaka Jackson, and I’m a licensed hairstylist, licensed instructor, and proud member of Local 706—the film and television hair and makeup union based in Los Angeles, California. With over a decade of experience, I specialize in working with all hair textures and types, offering services in cutting, coloring, male grooming, makeup, and healthy hair care.

My passion for hair began early and has only grown stronger throughout my journey. Whether I’m behind the chair, on set, or teaching in the classroom, my mission remains the same: to help people feel confident and empowered through intentional, customized beauty experiences. I take pride in helping clients begin and maintain their healthy hair journeys, and I approach every service with care, professionalism, and a deep understanding of how hair can be a form of self-expression.

In addition to working in film, TV, and fashion, I’m deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of beauty professionals. Through my Master Pro-Folio (Portfolio ) Building Class, I help hairstylists and makeup artists, models, stylists, nail tech etc. develop strong, industry-ready portfolios that open doors to new opportunities across entertainment, fashion, and editorial work. My goal is to not only share technical skills, but to offer guidance and support as artists navigate their careers.

I believe in the power of community and the importance of pouring into others. I’m an open book and always willing to share what I’ve learned. Whether you’re a client or an aspiring artist, my hope is that you walk away from any experience with me feeling seen, supported, and inspired.

I truly believe in evolving and shifting your career when the time calls for it—and that’s exactly what I’ve been embracing recently. I’m now growing alongside an incredible group of talented women at Tookie Did It Salon in Los Angeles, led by the amazing Tookie herself. Continuing to grow in film and television production projects and see what this year holds. I’m excited and ready for it.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

I would say seeing other grow. This is definitely something that warms my heart to see students that i have taught push limits and encourage me in my career.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Being from the Midwest (Missouri) the schools or resources that we have don’t or should I say our demographics is not geared in Film and Television. I was blessed to work with my Mentor at the time Marie Simone who took me under her wing and introduced me to an entire world of this industry working NYC fashion week and the amazing entity of HFR HARLEM FASHION ROW started by Mrs Brandice Daniels who created this platform for the inclusion and diversity of Minority Designers in NYC fashion week. This allowed me to see this incredible innovation of the industry in a whole different light.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://chatwakajackson.com
• Instagram: Chatwakaj_
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