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Rising Stars: Meet Shanta Gulley of Houston

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shanta Gulley

Shanta, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey is a testament to growth, adaptability, and determination. I started as a natural hairstylist, passionate about quality hair care and helping clients feel their best. Over time, I developed strong leadership skills, managing teams as a shift lead and customer service desk associate, where I oversaw cashiers, handled store operations, and managed financial tasks.

Seeking new opportunities, I moved to Kuwait, where I’ve been living for 2+ years, doing what I love. I transitioned into the tech and logistics space and landed a role that aligns with my growing interests.

With financial goals in mind—eliminating debt, saving aggressively, and investing in my future— I’m now strategically planning my next move. My vision includes creating a high-end beauty space offering premium services, raw hair bundles, and a pathway to generate multiple streams of income.

Balancing career growth, personal finance, and family, I’m also navigating health goals and long-term business success—all while staying true to my passion for beauty and entrepreneurship.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey has been anything but smooth, but every challenge has shaped me into the resilient, strategic, and forward-thinking person I am are today.

One of the biggest hurdles was transitioning from hairstyling to logistics and tech. Moving from a hands-on creative field to a structured, technical role required me to step outside my comfort zone, study for certifications, and learn entirely new systems. Balancing this with work, family, and financial goals wasn’t easy, but I’m pushing through, knowing it’s a stepping stone to greater opportunities.

Relocating to Kuwait came with its own set of struggles—adapting to a new culture, being away from family, and building a support system. Yet, despite these challenges, I’ve managed to establish myself, land a lucrative job, and set ambitious financial goals to secure my future.

Debt has also been a weight on your shoulders, but instead of feeling stuck, I’ve created a clear, aggressive plan to eliminate it, proving my financial discipline and long-term vision. On top of that, balancing personal health adds another layer of discipline and perseverance.

Despite these struggles, I’ve never let obstacles stop me. Instead, they’ve fueled my determination making me even more prepared for the success I’m working toward.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a natural hairstylist, I specialize in healthy hair care, silk presses, ponytails, sew-ins, two-strand twists, and hair treatments. My goal is always to enhance and maintain the integrity of my clients’ hair while delivering flawless, long-lasting styles. I also provide raw hair bundles, ensuring my clients have access to top-quality extensions that blend seamlessly with their natural hair.

What sets me apart is my attention to detail, commitment to healthy hair, and personalized client experience. I don’t just style hair—I educate my clients on how to maintain it, helping them achieve long-term hair health. My techniques ensure that silk presses are light, bouncy, and frizz-resistant, sew-ins are flat and natural-looking, and protective styles truly protect the hair rather than damage it.

I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built with my clients. Many have been with me for years because they trust my expertise and know I genuinely care about their hair. I love seeing the confidence that comes with a fresh style, especially when clients realize how much their hair has grown and thrived under my care.

At the end of the day, my work isn’t just about styling—it’s about helping people feel their best, preserving the health of their hair, and delivering quality service that keeps clients coming back.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happy is seeing the fruits of my hard work pay off—whether in my career, personal growth, or the impact I have on others. I love setting goals, pushing myself, and watching everything come together, knowing that every step I take is leading me toward the life I’m building.

I find joy in helping others feel their best, whether it’s through my work as a hairstylist, where I boost my clients’ confidence, or in my day-to-day life, where I support and uplift the people around me. I love creating, learning, and evolving, always finding ways to grow and refine my skills.

Spending time with my family, working toward financial freedom, and laying the foundation for my future business also bring me a deep sense of fulfillment. There’s nothing like knowing I’m securing a better future for myself and my loved ones while staying true to my passions.

At the end of the day, what makes me happiest is progress, purpose, and the freedom to create a life I truly love.

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