Ana James, 24, and Sunday Chol, 23, have defied all odds to become the most sought-after hairdressers in Malakal, South Sudan. Both have no formal training in the beauty industry. But their natural talent and joie de vivre have made this dynamic duo’s salon the must-visit destination for all things related to hair and make-up. In this short interview, Ana and Sunday speak about their passion for entrepreneurship and everything related to fashion.

How did you become interested in fashion and beauty?

Ana: I was obsessed with styling hair from the time I was very young. I would try out different styles on my friends and they would love it. When my father abandoned our family, it was a difficult time. The only escape from reality for me was when I was styling someone’s hair or doing their make-up. I would be transported and wouldn’t know where the time went. In the absence of a primary breadwinner, my family were in dire financial straits and it was then that I started charging a fee for styling people’s hair. I started making enough money to pay for my schooling and, since I’m the eldest child, also contributed to my siblings’ education.

Sunday: I think my journey is very similar to Ana’s. Maybe that’s why we are in business together [laughs]. I’m the eldest of five siblings and a single parent to a 4-year-old daughter. I’ve always loved the idea of styling and grooming somebody so that they can look their best. As a young person, I know that the way you look makes all the difference in how other people perceive you. So, if you want to be noticed, if you want people to pay attention to the issues you’re raising, you’ve got to look the part.

What made you decide to become a hairdresser and fashion designer?

Ana: Many people find it difficult to run a salon; it’s hard work and you must be on your feet for long hours. Plus, you need to always be very client-focused and cater to their whims. But I love meeting people and styling them. It gives me the ability to make good money. I also encourage other young girls to pick up skills from me—I teach them hair styling, face and body make-up and also, manicures and pedicures.

Sunday: In Upper Nile state, we don’t have any training centers or courses for people who want to go into the beauty business. I initially completed a three-year course in midwifery. But I always had more fun and received much more encouragement when I would style my friends. I shared my ideas with Ana and together we established this salon. We have very good facilities, we’re organized about scheduling appointments with our clients and offer them a wide variety of hair and make-up options. My priority is to make sure our customers leave the salon happy and satisfied with the services we provide.

Were your respective families supportive of your career choices?

Ana: When my mother saw that my talent in hairdressing was helping her make ends meet, she did her best to support my dreams.

Sunday: I still live with my parents and we are very close. They’re wonderfully supportive and look after my daughter because I’m away for long hours every day. They’ve helped me chart my own course.

Can you give us an example of the positive impact/reaction you have got from people?

Ana: My clients appreciate my fashion and style sense and they are happy with the services I offer to them. They have encouraged me with kind words. This motivates me and makes me much more confident.

Sunday: As I’ve said earlier, I build very strong relationships with my clients. They are the backbone of our business and we have gained new patrons because of recommendations from our regular clientele. We are often fully booked at the salon. That always makes me think that we are on the right track.

Do you have a message for other young people across South Sudan?

Ana: I think young people are influencers and have great power in this country. My advice to every young girl in South Sudan would be to follow your dreams. Nothing is impossible.

Sunday: To add to what Ana says, I want to urge every young person in South Sudan to become an entrepreneur. Running your own business is hard, but very, very rewarding. Youth need to do what they love and love what they do for a prosperous and peaceful future.