I AM NOT MY HAIR? - CONNECT, A YANASISTERS PUBLICATION

A CONVERSATION WITH STYLIST NINA WINSTON

BY IMANI MONICA MCCULLOUGH

The first time I walked into Growing Seasons Hair Salon about 15 years ago, I was excited to meet the legendary Nina Winston — a stylist who came highly recommended for her reputation of doing incredibly beautiful braids and other extensions, while also caring for the health of your hair.

Nina was the stylist who worked tirelessly to help me feel beautiful through braids, twists, weaves, wigs, and everything in between. She was the healer who worked miracles on my scalp and hair. And, when despite our best efforts the alopecia kicked into high gear, she was my counselor, cheerleader, and friend.

Nina, thank you for speaking with me today. So, let’s start at the beginning... how long have you been a stylist?

I’ve been doing hair since I was 3 years old. Actually, I would say that my hair was my best friend while growing up. (lol) I started doing hair professionally about 27 years ago and have been a salon owner for 22 years.

Wow, it’s wonderful that you recognized your calling so early. Can you remember what prompted you to turn your passion into a thriving business?

Doing hair, and eventually owning a salon, came naturally to me... It’s a passion that has been with me all along... It was a gift, which led to a hobby, and finally turned into a business.

I thank God that I have been able to do the three things that I love the most: (1) hair, (2) share with others, and (3) talk. :)

It’s clear from our time together, and from what I’ve seen you do for other clients, that you truly love what you do. What do you love most about doing hair – your own and others?

I love wearing my natural hair — sometimes with add-ins to make it look fuller and longer. I believe women should follow their heart’s desire (when considering extensions, relaxers, and other non-natural styles) as long as there is love for self.

For my clients, I love sharing deep, meaningful conversations (connecting) while bringing out the beauty from within.

I know that even with our passions, there are always things that can be challenging. What do you like least about doing hair?

When clients don’t trust themselves, that causes them not to trust me. I find that this doesn’t allow God to bring the creativity through me for them.

With all of the clients that you’ve seen over the past 27+ years, I’m sure you’ve heard it all. Can you share what you’ve learned about women and beauty?

I’ve learned that there’s something unique and beautiful about every woman. We all want similar things, like love, connection, security, inner peace, appreciation and respect. Our beauty is how we express it. Women are most happy when they feel love and share love.

OK, one last question, inspired by my own journey. Many of us have been taught that hair is where our beauty comes from. What would you say to women who are suffering from hair loss — or otherwise struggling to love their hair (or other parts of themselves)?

I would remind my sisters that our beauty comes from God – the inner soul and inner light — not from our hair. And, for hair loss in particular, I think it can help bring out the inner light - like confidence, trust, and faith.... I would also remind my sisters that becoming is a process.

Thank you, Nina, for the gifts you’ve given me over the years and for sharing with us today!