Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiana Doan
Hi Kiana, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Becoming a hairstylist has been a dream of mine since I was in middle school. At that age, YouTube videos were revolutionary. I would watch a tutorial and eagerly go to school to practice my latest finding on my friends. I became obsessed with braids and quickly became known as a braid specialist among my classmates. This carried on throughout high school but came to a pause once I graduated. My parents and I came to an agreement that I would attend a 4-year university and earn my degree before pursuing any passions, so that’s what I did. I graduated from San Diego State University (SDSU) with a degree in psychology and minor in cultural proficiency, went into cosmetology school, and now I am using my background in psychology as a hairapist (hair + therapist)!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My road to get here definitely could have been smoother. However, everything I encounter along the way taught me to be more resilient and adaptable. I discovered my passion for hair at a very young age, and I have always known that this is what I wanted to do in the future. Even then, I dealt and still deal with imposter syndrome as a young hairstylist. There are days where I ask myself am I good enough? Do I deserve to be here? Should I be working in this industry? I have to remind myself that there will be good days and bad days but regardless, I worked hard to get where I am today and I am exactly where I need to be. The struggle is temporary and it ultimately makes me a better artist and a stronger version of myself.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Being patient and meticulous sets me apart from others and has led me to create some of the pieces I’m most proud of. Intricate braiding and specialized color is something I really enjoy doing. Although these projects may take hours to complete, they feels therapeutic to me. The time really does fly when you’re having fun.
Being versatile is another thing that sets me apart from other. I want to be a stylist that has something to offer to everyone, whether that be color, cutting, braids, styling, perms. I love working with hair for that reason. Everyone has different needs so I have the opportunity to challenge myself and adapt to what’s in front of me. I would consider myself a Jack of all trades because I want to learn everything!
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I am so grateful to be surrounded by the most supportive people. My friends and family have been there since the beginning. They were there when I was cutting hair in the garage, experimenting with different colors, trying new techniques. They witnessed my failures, my successes, and my growth. I also owe a lot to my mentors and my coworkers. Tommy and Jodi saw potential in me as a young stylist that was still navigating a big and intimidating industry. They welcomed me into a safe salon space surrounded by other talented and inspiring artists that I can continue learning from. Lastly, I want to thank every client that has been in my chair and that I have yet to meet. Thank you for being a canvas for my art.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Lourn Selga
