Meet Ashley Duffus | International Student-athlete, Student-worker, Intern & Hairstylist
We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Duffus and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ashley, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I believe that risks are scary, but in a good way. In my opinion, risk has a lot to do with having faith because faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). If you think about taking a risk, most times you do not know what the outcome is going to be. All you do is hope for the best outcome, a outcome that you nor anyone has seen. So when I think about risk and the role it has played in my life and career so far, I would have to say, I enjoy the thrill of taking risk. I could be so scared sometimes, but then I remind myself to have faith and just say to myself, “it’s always better to try and see how it turns out than to not try and then live under and umbrella of ‘what ifs’ and regrets.” After reminding myself that if God brings me to it, He will bring me through it and if I try and it does not work out then it was not His plans, but how will I know unless I try. This mindset has shaped me into a braver and better faith-walker, business owner and just a better person every single day because I only get one life, why live in a bubble of regrets? Taking risk has opened more doors for myself and people around than I ever imagined, so I will continue to have faith and take risks.
What should our readers know about your business?
I started braiding hair in the summer of 2020. However, ever since I can remember I was always interested in hair. Whenever my mom sent my sister and I to get our hair done, I was always asking the stylists a whole bunch of questions and I would observe them thoroughly then try to do my own hair. When covid hit and I was at home, I had more time to watch videos, do my hair and practice on other people. I remember begging my sister to try knotless in her hair and when she finally let me, it was not giving knotless, but that did not stop me. I am a perfectionist and if I have my mind set on something, I am going to stop at nothing to achieve what I want. So, that pushed me into watching more videos, getting a mannequin, shadowing other stylists and asking lots of questions. I believe that’s what set me apart from others, I am not afraid of constructive criticism. I want the corrections so I can know how to do better next time. The most proud or exciting thing for me will have to be my slogan, “Glorifying God Through The Art Of Hair.” I live by that through and through, it drives me to put my best foot forward all the time. When I challenge myself just to exceed my expectations and to see my clients reactions is the thrill I live for. And that is how I got to where I am today, by embracing who Ashley is. It was never easy, and I am still facing challenges but I can safely say I am nowhere near where I used to be back in 2020 and seeing that growth only makes me excited to get to where God is taking me. To overcome my obstacles I cry, I pray and I lean on my community but I never give up. I try until I run out of options because I do not want to make excuses. I have learned that closed mouths don’t get fed, do not be afraid to ask for help, do not shy away from putting yourself out there and even if you are shy or afraid, do it anyway. I also learned that no one can be you, and you cannot be anyone, so stop trying to fit in. Do the thing you think is crazy, pray over it and put that idea into the world. I’ve also learned that you do not have to accept others opinion, but if you ask for it then you determine how you react. Do not be afraid of criticisms nor not getting support from people you really wish you were getting it from. I want the world to know that I am my biggest supporter. I cannot afford to give up on Ashley because if I can’t believe in me how do I expect others to do it.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Sunday – Go to Ihop for breakfast, then to front street for dinner.
Monday- Make breakfast from home, chick Fil A for lunch and mamas for dinner.
Tuesdy – Drive to front street and go for a walk.
Wednesday – Breakfast from IHop, lunch from southern classic, Dinner from El Nopal.
Thursday – Drive to shreveport for lunch and go to game arcade.
Friday – Breakfast from Chick Fil A, go by the pool, Go to Johnny’s for dinner.
Saturday – Breakfast from home, go picnic by the river for lunch, go to Louisiana sports Hall of Fame downtown to explore then have dinner from papas.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Firstly, I want to thank God for always reminding me that even when it does not look like it, He’s got me and He loves me. Also, I want to thank Amoy Lawrence for this opportunity. I prayed hard for covenant friendships, a sisterhood and group of friends that would PUSH me outside of my comfort zone and I have that. I cannot name them all but my sisters and my close friends know themselves. Iron sharpens iron and I am grateful that we do not allow each other to get complacent. Also, to my mother Nadisha, sister Deancya, father Anthony, brother Romardio, and best friend Iesha, who supports me, and reminds me that I am doing a good job even when I do not feel like I am. To my friend Chevelle who has helped me design my website, create my logos, and brand myself, a superb shoutout to her for aways helping me put my best self out there. To my clients who trust me and believe in me so much, I love you guys endlessly for the support and love that you show me! Last but not least, to my best friend and partner Malik, you have uplifted me more times than I can count, I will never get used to the motivational quotes that you send me during my appointments. Sometimes I am so tired trying to balance all the hats I wear in this life but then you remind me of my why, you pray for me, you listen to me, you support me, and you wait for me. I am immensely grateful for you. Thanks to you all and thank you Atlanta shoutout.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invites/contact/?i=19xfhttbnzk6f&utm_content=mecflrm
Image Credits
photocredits: zoenelson photocredits: Eric Wilson from real views newspaper
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