Amour Thon, owner of Pan Africa Hair Salon Shop Five, Kilian’s Walk.
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What's your job?
I am a hair stylist, specialised in African hair styling.
We do braiding (cornrow braids, single braids and single box braids) and hair extensions (loop and weave). We also sell African hair products, natural hair extensions, African jewellery and sandals.
How long have you been doing that for?
I completed my certificate in hairdressing in Canada 15 years ago. When I moved to Melbourne, I did further training in African hair styling and established my business in Canberra in 2012.
It’s been two and half years since I opened the Pan Africa Hair Saloon in Bendigo.
What are you doing today?
I have a few bookings today. I am doing cornrow braids now. Teenagers are interested in single box braids. We have two girls coming in the afternoon.
Why did you decide to become a hair stylist?
My grandmother used to do our hair when we were young and we had many other people from our community coming to our home for styling their hair. She had a unique style and did it diligently, quietly and beautifully.
I started the styling when I was a young girl because of her influence.
What do you enjoy about your job?
I like doing hair. That’s my talent. This gives me opportunity to play with hair, make a beautiful style for each client, and I am very happy to see new faces every day.
My family also help to support me with my business. My shop is a place where friends and family from my community can come and spend time together.
What’s your passion? What do you really care about?
Doing hair is my passion. This gives me the opportunity to meet new people.
I believe the people whom I am working with are here for a reason. I care about their happiness and satisfaction. I also care about promoting a positive and vibrant outlook about African culture and traditions.
I have worked hard to grow my business, and have worked two jobs to support establishing my shop. It’s not always easy running your own business, but it’s what I love to do.
What’s your Bendigo story?
I moved to Bendigo three years ago. Initially I was working from home. I opened this business two and half years. We are the only business in Bendigo that is specialised in African hair styling and products.
My customers are from all cultures and across all ages. Last week I had customer who came all the way from Swan Hill! Teenagers and young girls have special interest in braiding.
What do you do on your Saturday morning?
Saturday is the busiest day for my work and I take appointments from 8am.
What’s your guilty pleasure? Favourite tv show?
Being a sole parent to my wonderful daughter, I get very little time to watch TV. If I get a bit of time I love watching African Music on You Tube.
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