Today we’d like to introduce you to Janean Del Valle.
Janean, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
It’s crazy how life comes around full circle…..I can remember when I was around 8-9 years old, I walked in on my Father cutting his own hair. He had asked me to help him with the back of his head, to make sure everything was nice and even. I didn’t know what I was doing but through his guidance we got it done! That very memory would change my life for good. A few years later my Dad suddenly passed away when I was 13. As we were going through his belongings I came across the same clippers I used to cut his hair and that memory came to mind. I remember rushing into the living room to watch the VHS tape it came with and decided to practice on my little brother. I began to understand how a clipper works and continued practicing my craft on other family members as well. I never thought I would become a full time barber but as I got older I decided I wanted to be my own boss and work for myself. So I enrolled in Fortis College and received my license in Cosmetology. As a little girl my dream was to become an artist, little did I know I would master the art of hair.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I believe, in life, nothing worth having comes easy. This journey hasn’t always been smooth. From building a clientele, to learning how to connect and communicate with people, to becoming disciplined enough to work through those slow challenging days. I’ve learned through my experience over the years that obstacles/ challenges are what molds you to become a better version of yourself. It’s through the trials and tribulations that our testimonies come from. You can achieve anything in life through consistency, hard work, and dedication.
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?
Although I’ve always wanted to be an artist. I learned a different form of art through my clippers. From the fading techniques to , using symmetrical lines to create the perfect hairline. Adding fun colors, enhancements and designs for an artsy edge. I’m known for having a passion for my art and I enjoy working on my craft everyday but I get the most satisfaction by being able to give back! Every year since I’ve enrolled in school, I have taken the opportunity to use my gift for good and give away free back to school haircuts for the past 15 years and volunteer my time throughout the years to give back to those who are less fortunate, especially children. What sets me apart from others would be the fact that I don’t fit in because I was made to stand out. I was blessed with a gift and I believe it has been good to me because I use it to bless others.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I’m so blessed to be apart of an industry that has little to no fear of AI taking over and is also recession proof. Having the ability to make people look good allows them to feel good. It gives them the confidence they need to feel like they’re able to conquer the world. The hair industry is constantly evolving and constantly expanding new heights. Through our personal, daily connections, this industry will and always be an important and reliable presence in every community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://FRESHLYFADED.net
- Instagram: @mean_nean
- Facebook: Janean Del Valle
- Other: https://MeanNean.booksy.com
