Meet Jayme Navarro | Hair therapist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jayme Navarro and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jayme, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I’ve always believed in, high risk, high reward. We are our biggest investment, if we don’t bet on and believe in ourselves, who will? That was my motivating factor in opening my business. Every risk I’ve taken has resulted in a reward or lesson. But if I’m going to spend time building my career somewhere, I’d rather do it in my own business. It’s a huge risk to start your own business, but it’s never a loss when your invest into yourself!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’ve been a licensed cosmetologist for 9 years now. From a very young age, I’ve always been into the beauty industry. In high school I was doing hair and make-up for my friends. I knew this is what I wanted to do, but it was a challenge coming from a Hispanic background. My family wanted me to go the traditional route, and go to college. After having my daughter, I went to cosmetology school, and loved it! It was a bumpy road, the salon industry can be very catty. I’ve done everything from hourly, to commission, to booth renting, and finally owning a salon with 2 of my friends. Making the decision to leave my business in New Mexico of 6 years, and start over was the hardest decision. I spent years building up my business, but New Mexico isn’t where I wanted to make roots. I decided the best thing for me to do is, move while I’m still young enough to hustle and rebuild. You can start over at any age, but it does get harder the longer you wait. My best friend once told me, “the best time to start over is when you’re at your most successful point”. And its true, it sets the bar of what you know you’re capable of. So in opening my salon here in Florida, I may not have the cliente, but I have the experience! In doing hair, I’ve made so many beautiful connections, and relationships. I’ve learned that I’m able to make people feel better, not just with doing their hair, but just listening to them. That’s what made me love my job even more. It’s one thing for people to trust you with their hair, but for them to trust you with their person life, is incredible. I take great pride in that. I get one of the best feelings after doing someone’s hair, and they say, “not only does my hair look beautiful, but I FEEL so much better!”. That’s my motivative force, helping people not only look good, but feel good too! Beauty starts from the inside, that’s something my dad taught me at a young age. I also love to keep up with all the trends, and take lots continuing education classes to learn new skills. My number one goal as a hairdresser is, keeping the hair healthy! I make sure to use top of the line products, and make sure to maintain the integrity of the hair. I absolutely love what I do! I know I have a tough road ahead of me, building from the ground, but I also know I can do it. My goal is to inspire other young women of color to stick to what they love and are passionate about, open businesses, be their own boss. My favorite quote is, “The greatest human act is to inspire.”

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m still discovering new places, but so far my favorite thing to do is go to Peanut Island. It’s a short fairy ride, and you’re in paradise! The water is so blue, and there’s so many beautiful fishes you can see. The snorkeling is amazing there!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My mom is actually one of my biggest supporters. When we moved to Florida, I left my business behind. I tried to work at some salons, and she saw how unhappy I was. She encouraged me to open my business, even with little to no clients. She always believed in me, and taught me to be strong, and fearless in the things I’m passionate about . My daughter too, of course. I want to show her she can do anything she sets her mind to. She’s my motivation in everything I do, I want to make her proud!

Instagram: @getwavywithjayme

Facebook: Geywavywithjayme

Image Credits
Enrique Navarro