Mary ‘Sparrow’ Agyapong’s path to success in the hair braiding industry in the United States of America was not an easy one. When she first arrived in the United States several years ago, she faced a major hurdle – finding a salon that could accommodate her hair braiding needs.
In an exclusive interview with Doreen Abanema Abayaa in The Bronx, New York City, the 27-year-old shared her initial struggles. She and her father were taken aback when a braider they approached demanded a staggering $140 for the service. To make matters worse, even the discounted rate they eventually received was higher due to their Ghanaian heritage.
Determined to overcome this obstacle, Mary decided to take matters into her own hands. She promptly instructed her father to gather the necessary tools for hair braiding and embarked on a journey to learn the craft. She began by braiding her own hair, then moved on to braiding her friends’ hair, eventually expanding to braiding her mom’s hair. This marked the beginning of Mary’s venture into the world of hair braiding in The Bronx, culminating in the establishment of her own business.
Reflecting on her journey, Mary expressed her firm belief in her abilities: “When I touch your hair, you’re not going anywhere else; you’re staying because the magic happens here.” She also highlighted the gratifying nature of her work, boasting a clientele of over 500 individuals whom she serves diligently from Monday to Saturday.
In addition to her success as a braider, Mary also discussed the importance of patience in the industry. According to her, success in the business hinges on the ability to deal with customers tactfully, as they come with varied attitudes and moods. She emphasized the need to understand and cater to the needs of each client, regardless of their demeanor.
Prior to venturing into hair braiding, Mary received training as an electronic engineer. She aspires to further her education once she completes her current building project. Despite her success in the hair braiding industry, Mary remains grounded and focused on her goals for the future.
Mary ‘Sparrow’ Agyapong’s story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and passion in achieving one’s dreams. Her unwavering dedication to her craft and commitment to excellence have propelled her to great heights, inspiring others to pursue their goals with the same fervor and drive.
