Today we’d like to introduce you to Lynda Davenport.
Hi Lynda, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My introduction into the hair industry began out of a need. Back in 2005, while in college, I decided to go natural. At the time there were limited resources and knowledge about natural hair. Finding a salon that could treat and style my hair in a healthy manner was nearly nonexistent. As a result, I had to do it myself and became self-taught in natural hair care. Friends and classmates liked what I was doing with my own hair and wanted the same. They became my first “nonpaying” clients. It wasn’t until 2008 that I discovered I could make a career of caring for natural hair.
I left my job of working with middle & high schools to work in a natural hair care salon full time. During this 7-year period, I was able to hone my natural hair care skills and add braiding and loc/dreadloc care to my wheelhouse. I was quickly drawn to locs and would eventually focus my attention only to locs.
My story includes time as a classroom teacher. I loved teaching and exposing my students to knew content. Seeing students discover their “ah-ha” moments and creating a safe space for my students to learn and engage brought me much joy.
After much encouragement from my family, friends, and clients, I would birth LYNLOCS in 2021. Starting my own business would come with its challenges and barriers; however, it would be one of the many rewarding things in my life. Six months after starting my business, I would leave traditional teaching for full-time entrepreneurship.
Now, over a year in business, I have been able to combine my love of teaching and locs to educate, cultivate and service many on the importance of healthy locs. I love that I get to be a part of their loc journeys and share the knowledge needed to maintain the beauty of their locs. I am able to educate other stylists and loc enthusiasts on correct techniques and loc care. I endeavor to create an environment where I can continue to educate and service locs.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
My journey of entrepreneurship has not been without its challenges. That included overcoming the fear that of failure and educating people on proper loc care & maintenance.
While I have been confident in my abilities to service loc clients, it was the imposter syndrome in thinking I was not going to be successful in this industry. This new season of juggling all of the things came with some anxiety and the constant fear of potentially comprising other areas of my life. Being a wife, mother of three and entrepreneur has required a unique ability to split my time and effort in all areas with care. During those moments of doubt, I am reminded of my foundation and circle. It’s a constant internal reassurance to push past those thoughts and continue to become all that God has purposed me to be and do. I’m truly thankful for my circle of friends and family that continue to encourage me to be great and press on.
In addition, there is a lot of misinformation when it comes to locs. It’s been my mission to educate the masses in healthy loc care and maintenance.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I have worked in the haircare industry for nearly 15 years. In that time, I have worked as a natural hair care specialist, braider, and loctician. For the last eight or so years, I have specialized in and exclusively service loc care needs. I am known for my styles, loc care education, and customer service.
My unique ability to combine humor and education has allowed me to bring comfort and ease to those new to the industry and hair journey; this is what I am most proud of doing.
I believe my gift of humor, education, and hair care sets me apart from most. My clients and students rave about my wealth of knowledge and care for hair. I would love to share my gifts with the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.LynLocs.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/iamlynlocs/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lyn-Locs-105603264809286/
Image Credits
Lee Shooter
Alexander Francois
Charlott Rhymes
@dlowstudio
