A YOUNG entrepreneur from Linden is expanding her small salon business after completing training offered through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) programme.
Minister of Human Services Dr Vindhya Persaud visited the salon on Monday as part of the ministry’s ongoing outreach to beneficiaries of its skills-training initiatives. The visit highlighted the progress of salon owner, Collina Johnson, who has used the programme’s courses to develop services and products for her business.
Johnson, a graduate of the WIIN décor course, has begun producing her own beard oils, locs serums and other hair-care items while also retailing hair extensions. She is currently working on outfitting and upgrading her salon using skills gained through the ministry’s training.
According to the ministry, Johnson had previously discussed her ambitions with Dr Persaud, who encouraged her to take advantage of available training. Johnson said the programme allowed her to pursue formal skills development and move toward financial independence.
The entrepreneur is also preparing to launch a mobile beauty service aimed at taking hair-care services directly to clients, a model that has grown in popularity across the country as small businesses explore new markets.
The WIIN programme, launched in 2021, offers training in technical and income-earning skills to help women secure employment or start small businesses.