We were lucky to catch up with Troi Brown recently and have shared our conversation below.
Troi, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
I’ve learned to just believe in myself. Know that I belong regardless of what my surroundings look like. Whether they think I deserve to be here or not, I’m here. I’m extremely humble yet so confident in my craft. I may not be the best but I thrive in everything I set my mind to. There’s no giving up, no quitting, no starting over, I’m in the midst of greatness, really following my true passion of life. This is what I set out to do and there will be nothing but illustriousness to follow.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m a 27 year old Florence SC native. For me, hair has always been the name of the game, but initially, it was strictly women’s hair. The braids, silk presses, quick weaves, rod sets, I was in awe I loved it all. At a young age, going to the salon was my favorite thing to do. I adored watching each style be created and just come to life, I knew instantly this is what I’d be getting into. I worked from home during the pandemic, so I had a lot of free time. My mind was always racing, trying to figure out what’s next. What can I put in place for the long run? Where do I start? It was time for a career I was serious about, something that motivated me. I was all over the internet, social media, YouTube, contemplating on what route to take, when eventually, barber videos took over my screen more than anything. Falling in love with it was an understatement. The technique, the form, the interaction, the sound of the clippers, and the atmosphere were all new, but I was locked in. Months following, I ran across my previous instructor promoting his new school, it was fate if you asked me.
Today, I am formally known as The Female Barb(her). Professional and fully licensed. I specialize in all clean and detailed cuts, children’s cuts, eyebrow shaping, facial steams, and scalp treatments. I’ve been in customer service all my life and I take that knowledge with me everywhere I go. I’m big on first impressions and how I come off to others. I make sure all clients are comfortable and feel that they’re in a safe space when they’re in my chair. I’m most proud of the progress I’ve made in this industry. It’s male dominated, but I didn’t let that stop me. I thrive more and more every day and continue to be true to myself and my craft. I want all potential clients to know they’re in good hands with me. I am my brand, and I’ll do anything to make sure I represent myself well.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Consistency, Passion, and Drive. You have to keep going no matter what. Quitting is never an option. You will have slow days, low income days, no client days, none of that matters. I learned to use that time to invest in myself. Learn more about my craft and strive to become better than I was the day before. You have to love what you do to thrive at what you do. Staying committed is really the force that will help you in the long run. Don’t give up, never second guess, and go after what you want. Claim that it’s already yours, and the rest will fall into place.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
I pray. It’s just that simple. I ask God to help me cope. Help me see the stress I endure and allow me to hand it all to him. I ask for a renewed sense of hope, faith, and mostly gratitude. That I may not grow discouraged but find comfort in his presence. I read, I find quiet time for myself, and take self care days seriously. We all need a break from this thing called life, my suggestion is to look for different outlets and find what works best for you.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tb.dub?igsh=MWo1YXRjY2QxN2lkbA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/troi.brown.7?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
Troi A. Brown
