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

Stasha, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you tell us about a time where you or your team really helped a customer get an amazing result?

Meet Tiffany Anderson, my accomplished client. Tiffany faced emotional challenges during her interview for the Magic Fingers Studio apprentice program in 2021. Despite familial expectations centered around traditional education, Tiffany’s passion for hairstyling led her to take a chance on herself. Graduating at the top of her class, she excelled in both the stitch and knotless competitions. Tiffany’s journey continued as she rented a chair in a salon with dreams of owning her studio suite. The missing piece was her natural hair styling license. When Magic Fingers Natural Hair Institute opened enrollment, Tiffany, eager to advance, faced financial obstacles. After a strategic conversation, she enrolled and graduated at the top of her class once again.
Post-graduation, Tiffany secured her suite, relaunched her hair oils, and collaborated with brands, showcasing her exceptional talent.

Stasha, 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?

Establishing the Magic Fingers Natural Hair Institute stands as a source of immense pride for me. Though the journey was challenging and filled with bumps, achieving this feat is a testament to my determination. This institute is licensed by the state of NY, allowing graduates to take the natural hair styling exam for their license. I am grateful to provide employment opportunities, elevate careers, and boost confidence by sharing knowledge. Having our own products available for personal and professional needs adds to the fulfillment. The institute offers hands-on experience, allowing students to service clients and jumpstart their careers.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Facing a sudden drop from 10 stylists to just one was a significant challenge. While working on opening Magic Fingers Natural Hair Institute, the thought of closing my salon loomed. To adapt swiftly, I initiated an apprenticeship program, filling stations and gaining teaching experience. The brilliance of this idea unfolded as I graduated three classes before launching the school, even offering some apprentice positions at the salon. After opening MFI, graduates found opportunities in the salon when vacancies arose.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I pivoted during the pandemic by adapting my business model. Instead of facing challenges, the closure became an opportunity. Within a week of closing, I added salon products to my website, creating bundled kits for quick styles. Hosting paid online classes via Zoom, I connected with attendees globally, keeping my business afloat despite being unable to serve clients directly.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.magicfingers.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magicfingersstudio?igsh=MXFmazdibjVhMjZtcw==
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/Magicfingersstudio
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@Magicfingersstudio?si=h7sJBztvOuFWg977