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

Jakkia , appreciate you joining us today. Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?

As a business owner I am Very Happy! The freedom of making my own schedule and working for myself is a blessing. It’s been 11 years since I’ve been my own boss. A long tough journey , I’m not completely where I wanna be but I’m exactly where I need to be and I’m proud of how far I’ve come. The risk ,the losses, the lessons. I’m grateful for it all.

Jakkia , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’ve been braiding hair since I was 15. It’s always been a way for me to make money for myself. I remember being fired from my last job in 2012. And I didn’t know how I was going to make it with providing for my sons. I had no other option but to do what I knew best. I started braiding hair from my apartment in the kitchen. Over the years Ive transitioned from renting chairs in salons to my own private suite and having a store front. Naming my business “Passion With Purpose Braid Studio and Beauty Supply LLC “. I provide natural protective styles services for women, men and kids ages 3 & up. I Teach braid classes for beginners and advanced learners. Anyone looking to learn the basics of braiding and/ or enhancing their braid skills. I’ host group classes and one-on-one lessons. Classes are for little girls ages 6 & up and Adults from 15 & up.
I specialize in covering up thinning and bald areas for women who suffer from hair loss due to illness medications or genetics. Providing braid styles that fit their needs. I make and sale natural hair growth oils and what I call my “Stay Ready Hats” – hats hand made with hair extensions for on the go styling.
I’m most proud of my work and how I continue to stay consistent and professional in my business making sure my clients are always happy , informed and confident about their hair.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

When I first started my storefront I didn’t have the money or the good credit to get funding. I got help from my ex boyfriend at the time for my deposit to get the building and start a 3 year lease. The buidling wasn’t ready so I worked 7 days a week about 12-14 hours taking 5-7 clients a day to invest in revamping the inside. New paint pulled up carpet and put in flooring. I even used the money I was making doing clients hair to invest in equipment and inventory for my store. Before I moved out of my private studio and had my soft opening. I was determined to have my store so I shut down all fun and didn’t go out to Party or anything for a whole year to work and invest in my store.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I started and opened my storefront in 2018. I had a beauty supply asking products and extensions clients needed. I had 3 others renting a booth and teaching my classes at the time. When the pandemic happened I had to shut down so nobody could work. I couldn’t make sales or anything. Once things were lifted and ok to work it was tough getting things back to normal so I worked until my lease was up. I had a big closing sale of inventory. And to cut the overhead cost I transitioned to my home based braid studio and travel services.

Pivoting my business after a tough time, I’ve created a safe space to provide a peaceful and relaxing experience for my clients as well as started my Podcast. ( The M.O.M – Moving Over Mountains) podcast sharing stories from experiences. To give a little inspiration and motivation from myself and guest to help others along their journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.mskiastudio.com
• Instagram: @passion_w_purpose
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PWPBeautyBraids1
• Linkedin: MsKia
• Youtube: TheM.O.MPodcast Moving Over Mountains