Curl Inspiration: Our Q&A with Ouidad

Ouidad, Founder and Entrepreneur, shares her unique curl story and what inspires her after 30 years in the curl business.

When did you know you wanted to be a hairdresser?

I'm curly...a free spirit! I did not know what I wanted to do. I started playing with hair at a very young age and women loved what I was doing. It made me feel good, so I pursued it.

How did you discover the Rake and Shake technique?

It was a no brainer. I have curly hair and always styled my hair with my hands. I used my fingers to position my curls, raking the gel into my hair and shaking the ends to spring my curl back - easy and quick! So, I just gave my actions a name. My tools are my fingers!

What advice would you give to other women who want to start their own business?

"Whatever you do, believe in yourself." That was the advice my mother gave me and I can't think of better advice for an entrepreneur. If you believe in yourself and have passion for what you do, with determination and hard work, no matter how different you are, you will stand out and blaze a place of your own.

Who do you most look up to/admire?

My greatest inspiration is my mother, the bravest person I have ever known. She overcame incredible odds. She came to a new country in her late thirties, didn't know the language and needed to work for the first time in her life while raising four teenagers. She made it all look incredibly simple and always had her kids' best interests at heart. She always fought like a champion, even in her final days succumbing to cancer.

What is your biggest achievement?

I have a few....

1. Being a wife and a mom.

2. Bringing and infusing the curly hair segment to our industry. Empowering our community with knowledge on curls. Leading the march freeing people from the anxiety of their curly hair for not being taken seriously or not looking professional and giving them confidence to stand strong and tall!

What keeps you inspired every day?

My inspiration comes from giving back, paying forward and the array of things I encounter daily. Mentoring young women entrepreneurs continuously inspires me. I love their energy and passion. Last but not least, my walks on the beach keep me whole.