Brenica Lewis, a 30-year-old from Calder, never imagined that her childhood hobby of plaiting hair would one day become a thriving business. Sitting in her cozy home salon, she reflects on the journey that brought her here.
“I started plaiting hair when I was just a teenager,” she recalls. “At first, I did it for free—just for fun and to practice. But my family and friends kept telling me, ‘You’re really good at this! You should start charging.’”
Encouraged by her mother, father, sister, and other close friends, Brenica decided to take the leap. Without any formal degrees or training, she turned her natural talent into a business. Working mostly from home, she also offers house calls, bringing her services directly to clients who need them. Over the years, her clientele has grown to include students, teachers, doctors, lawyers, and other professionals.
“It wasn’t easy at first,” she admits. “There were times when I doubted myself, but I kept pushing. I learned everything through experience—trial and error. And now, looking back, I’m proud of how far I’ve come.”
However, Brenica’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. One of her biggest struggles is the difficulty some clients face in reaching her in Calder. “Sometimes, people tell me they would love to get their hair done but feel like it’s too far to travel. That’s why I do house calls when I can, but I know I need a more central location,” she explains.
Her ultimate dream is to own a salon one day—a space where she can welcome clients comfortably and even provide employment opportunities for others. “I want to build something bigger than just myself,” she says. “A salon where I can train and employ young stylists, give them opportunities like I had to create something for themselves.”
Through all the ups and downs, there is one thing that keeps her going, even when she feels like giving up—her son, a Form 2 student at St. Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua.
“He’s my biggest motivation,” she says softly. “I don’t want him to struggle the way I did. I want to give him a better life, more opportunities. That thought alone keeps me pushing forward, even on the hardest days.”
With her skill, determination, and the love she has for her son, Brenica Lewis is proof that passion and perseverance can turn a simple talent into something truly life-changing.
For bookings, contact Brenica at (784) 526-0150
https://www.instagram.com/bre_the_hair_slayer?igsh=MWVyeDRkYmVrams0cQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr.
