— says Linden beauty, Tatum Grenville

TATUM Grenville is one of the few young women, who, at the age of 23, already has her own business: A hair and nail salon. Despite being beautiful, Tatum does not subscribe to the theory that beauty is all a woman needs to survive. As a matter of fact, she does not subscribe to the theory that an education is the only key to success either, but rather that following your dreams can do it equally, providing one with an even bigger key to unlock material success and financial security.
Not that this young woman is not an advocate of academic achievement; she did that successfully in the six years she spent at Linden’s premier secondary school, Mackenzie High.
Having done well in the sciences at both the Caribbean Secondary Education Council (CSEC) and its advanced level (CAPE), Tatum had always wanted to be a surgeon but because of certain constraints, she’s had to put her aspirations on hold.
“After I wrote CAPE, my intention was to attend the University of Guyana but things didn’t go according to plan,” she revealed.
NOT AN OPTION
But that was not the end of the world for Tatum; and settling for any old office job was not an option either, so she at stayed home for two years, contemplating her next big move.
And that’s where her mother came in, as, realising that her forte was in being creative, she decided to enroll her in a nail technician’s course. And today, she has no regrets.
Said Tatum: “You see, while I attended the Mackenzie High School, when I had nothing to do at home I used to do my own nails. I had the acrylic powder, and liquid and everything that was needed to get them done. I think that’s what made my mother push to get me to do the nail technology course.
“And, honestly, I didn’t mind, since it’s something I enjoyed doing in my spare time. A while after I got my certificate, I was employed at Sharmane’s Golden Touch Salon for over a year, where I got the opportunity to improve my skill and even learn a new one: Doing hair!
“Eventually, I said to myself, ‘I want to work for myself.’ And I did.”
With the help of her mom, Tatum was able to establish, a few weeks back, her very own hair and nail salon, “Ebony’s Creative Hands Beauty Salon”, where she also sells other items.
“My mom was the one who came up with the name, and gave me a start; I’m so grateful for her,” Tatum said.

BIGGER DREAMS
Being able to achieve this dream has allowed for bigger dreams to evolve in Tatum’s mind, as her future should be much greater.
“Five years from now,” she said, “I see myself owning a much bigger salon and spa; that is a dream right now.
“I want people to be able to come and get their makeup and massages done there also.”
And despite the many challenges, Tatum is proud of herself for what she has accomplished, but continues to be humble as the road to success has just started.
She’d like to encourage other young women who may have similar dreams. “I advise you to not give up. If this is what you have a passion for, stick with it, and make it work for you!
“Be creative! Add your own touch and style to what you’re doing; don’t try to imitate anyone! And, be the best you that you can be!
“It’s okay to grasp ideas and so on, but be sure to put your own spin on it; have a signature, so that when people come into contact with your work, they’ll know for sure that it’s you!