Kayara and his friend Milton Ngirazi (21) have discovered their talent in plaiting women’s hair and have started their own beauty salon.
“Things have changed; in this modern day there is no job that is reserved only for women or men. We are doing what earns us a living. If it meant kuruka madhoiri (knitting) for me to put food on the table for my family I would do it,” said Kayara.
Ngirazi added: “These days one will find women taking up jobs traditionally reserved for men such as repairing electricity cables. My parents advised me to find anything to do that is not illegal to earn some money and nothing can stop me from hairdressing.”
Kayara took over the idea of hairdressing in 2010 from his brothers who left for South Africa after several customers came asking for them. He initially started by helping his brothers with arranging, handing and finishing up braids, which he considers the basics of hairdressing.
Like many kids of his age, Kayara grew up with the hope of a white collar job. But when his Ordinary Level results did not go well, the hairdressing business chose him and he did not ignore the call.
“Many people of my age are too selective when it comes to jobs. We need to be prepared to take anything that comes, even making tea or cleaning,” said Kayara.
The young men have been encouraged by many women. Their customers say they do an excellent job and are destined for a bigger salon.
Kayara, a married man with one daughter, hopes to grow his business. He operates from a stall at the corner of Patrenda Road and Glen View Way, a bus stop where his work has advertised itself to commuters.
“It is in my hope that in five years’ time I will have at least two of these stalls. I don’t like working in a big building because I don’t want my work to be hidden in there. I believe something that is good should be displayed in an open space. That is how we will get more customers,” he explained.
Sylvester Mandenge, a professional accountant, spoke highly of men who work for their families.
“I respect these youngsters and any man who would do anything for their family. These boys are earning money in a respectable way and I see them as real men,” he said.
Post published in: News