In the world of hair, there are stories that go beyond fashion and style. Thelma Jackson's tale is one of empowerment, determination, and freedom, all intertwined with her decision to embrace the art of locs. Her journey is not just about her unique hairstyle but also about her path to entrepreneurship and an unwavering commitment to being true to herself.
Starting the Lock Journey
When asked about the origins of her lock journey, Thelma Jackson recalls, "I started locking my hair in 1989. And I did so because I made a decision to leave my job and to keep me on the path going. I knew they wouldn't accept my locked hair. And so I was like, okay, this will keep me going the way I want to go."
Thelma's decision to embark on the path of locks was more than just a style choice; it was her way of staying true to her dreams.
The Entrepreneurial Dream
Thelma's path was clear; she wanted to venture into the world of entrepreneurship. Leaving her job was a daunting and risky move, but she needed something to keep her motivated.
As Thelma explains, "I wanted to go into business for myself. And it was kind of scary, it was risky. But I said I just need something that can keep me motivated in any way I want to do." Her locks became her source of motivation, symbolizing the freedom to create her own destiny.
The Birth of "4W Circle of Art Enterprise"
Thelma's entrepreneurial journey took her through a winding road. It took a few years, but she finally opened the "4W Circle of Art Enterprise," a haven for artists who worked from their homes. Her enterprise aimed to provide these artists with a retail setting where they could showcase their creations and open their own spaces.
Interestingly, nestled within this artistic haven was a hair salon, primarily specializing in locks.
Unlocking "Locksmith"
The name of the hair salon? "Locksmith." The fusion of Thelma's entrepreneurial spirit and her iconic locks was born, showcasing her unique journey and her commitment to nurturing the creativity of others.
Challenges Along the Way
Thelma's lock journey was not without its challenges. Being left-handed and having her hair grow in the opposite direction made twisting her locks a puzzle. She had to seek assistance from others who could work with her unique hair growth pattern.
Additionally, her locks had a reputation for unruliness, causing some to doubt her choice. In fact, a former boss once offered her $200 to tame her hair.
The Beauty of Freedom
What Thelma cherishes most about her locs journey is the freedom it brings. "The freedoms just happen," she says. With locs, she can wake up in the morning and focus on her passions, not on styling her hair. The simplicity and ease of her locks grant her the freedom to be herself, unburdened by societal beauty standards.
The Love for Locs
When asked why she loves her locs, Thelma's eyes light up. "I can wear it in any style. Be stylish. It's an amazing freedom," she exclaims. Her locks have been a constant companion for over 30 years, and the flexibility they offer means she can change her style every day if she wishes. It's a love story that transcends trends and embraces the enduring beauty of self-expression.
Thelma Jackson's journey is a testament to the idea that our unique choices can empower us to follow our dreams. Her locks are not just a hairstyle; they represent a lifetime of entrepreneurship, resilience, and unwavering self-love.
Thelma's story reminds us that, in the pursuit of our dreams, we should never compromise our authenticity and that sometimes, the road less traveled leads to the most extraordinary destinations.
