Brendnetta Ashley talks with PBA what Black History Month means to her as a beauty professional
Coming from a family of hairstylists, Brendnetta Ashley was born into the fun, inspiring, and passionate energy of hair salons. With both of her grandmothers, aunt, and cousin setting her in the path of the beauty world, Brendnetta was inspired to make others feel good about themselves. To celebrate Black History Month, we reflect with Brendnetta to discuss what the month in observation means to her.
WHAT DOES BEING A BLACK BEAUTY PROFESSIONAL MEAN TO YOU?
It means to be skilled in all hair types, to understand the culture, to know and understand the roots of where our hairstyles come from, and to see the beauty in all hair types.
“Texture education should not be considered additional or specialty education but more about the standard of learning all hair types.”
WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU FEEL THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY NEEDS TO FOCUS ON OR LEARN TO CONTINUE TO WORK TOWARDS DIVERSITY OR INCLUSIVITY?
To have cosmetology schools focus on education of all hair types. In today’s times, it is so important for all hairstylists to be educated in working with all hair types. Texture education should not be considered additional or specialty education but more about the standard of learning all hair types.
WHERE DO YOU HOPE THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY CAN GO IN THE FUTURE?
I hope to see the beauty industry grow into a more inclusive space where we celebrate the beauty of all hair types created by all artists. A place where black beauty professionals are known for more than just textured hair but any hair type or style.
WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU WOULD WANT TO SAY TO FUTURE BLACK BEAUTY PROFESSIONALS?
Let nothing and no one hold you back from pursuing your dreams!
“See the beauty in all hair types.”
BRENDNETTA ASHLEY
Follow Brendnetta Ashley on Instagram @edgybgirl.
