Jekia Latham

I've been in the cosmetology field for 30 years, but professionally for just 10. Before becoming a salon owner, I worked as a social worker for about four and a half to five years after earning my Master's degree in social work from Rutgers University in Camden in 2013. A family tragedy completely shifted my life trajectory, and I wanted to do something that would keep me alive, happy, well, and safe - something that would provide as close to financial freedom as possible. I've always loved doing hair. I actually still have Barbies with hairstyles I gave them over 20 years ago. So at age 30, I quit my job as a social worker and enrolled in cosmetology school full-time, completing the program in 11 months. While in school, I worked at various salons, honing my craft and learning new skills, specifically with textured hair, Afro-textured hair, and natural hair. I fell in love with the technique, the styles, the environment, the music, and the camaraderie between the stylists and the clients. I passed my practical and written exams and began my career professionally with a license in 2018. I've been a salon owner since 2021, and now I work for myself and contract out, teaching classes right inside my salon suite. I've been able to do what I said I wanted to do, which is something that keeps me happy. As a texture artist, I work with all textures of hair - from the tightest coils to straight hair. I can create texture by adding curls to straight hair or straighten really curly hair. I'm also skilled in locking hair, which is my favorite. My specialty is micro-locks, and I've developed exceptional speed - I can complete a full micro-lock installation in 8 to 10 hours and maintenance appointments in 90 minutes or less. I jokingly tell people I'm the Chick-fil-A of hairstyling in the area - you're going to get fast, friendly service from me. I'm passionate about urging women, specifically in my community, to wear their hair natural or to lock it, creating a freedom I didn't initially realize would be so impactful. I have clients who are now going back to the gym, enjoying amusement parks with water rides with their children, and not running from the rain or water anymore. It's given me the opportunity to really be an integral part of people's families.