Kathleen Dos Santos - Toni&Guy Hairdressing Academy

This year has been a significant journey of growth and accomplishment for me. At the start of the year, I was working part-time as both a hairstylist and an assistant. I lacked confidence and often felt shy and nervous, unsure of my place in the salon world. However, as time passed, I began to feel more comfortable in my role, and with each passing day, my clientele grew. Seeing the joy in my clients’ faces when they left made me realize I was truly making a difference. This pushed me to become more confident in my skills, and I started offering additional services, such as color, highlights, styling, and even chemical treatments. When summer arrived, it was just Maggie and me running the show. I transitioned to full-time stylist, taking on more clients and helping out in the front whenever I could. Initially, I struggled to manage the time, but as the summer progressed, I found my rhythm. I quickly learned to juggle multiple appointments and keep up with the growing demand. This summer was the busiest I’ve ever been, but I wouldn’t change a thing. Looking back, I realize that the years of training and mentorship under Maggie had truly prepared me for this fast-paced season. Reaching this point, where I can manage a full schedule and feel accomplished at such a young age, has been an incredibly fulfilling experience. It’s rewarding to know that I am achieving one of my goals, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to make it happen. I am also deeply thankful to MVYouth for providing the support and resources that opened the door for me to pursue my dream. Their assistance has been invaluable, and I look forward to continuing my journey in this field.