LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) -- Shanyqua Palfrey, a local hairstylist, is using her talent as a licensed cosmetologist to offer a free hairstyle to those who can't afford to get one done.
"I have been in the same situation where I couldn't afford to do my hair and I know around this time, around the holidays, some people are less fortunate and I just want to help uplift them and turn their frown into a smile,” Palfrey said.
She said she learned how to do hair at a young age and knew it was her destiny to make it a career choice. Working in the hair industry for nearly five or six years, she said she does multiple hairstyles and loves what she does.
“When I help someone I feel great, especially to see the smile on their face after we are completed with the style and the services and they see how beautiful they are,” she said.
"Doing hair helps bring out our confidence. It helps us feel like a better person. When our hair isn't done sometimes we may feel down and out. Hair plays a major role in our everyday lives.”
Through a social media post, Palfrey was connected with two women in need. News Ten got a chance to see the behind-the-scenes of one client. All the material for the hair was provided and Palfrey did the hairstyle of the client’s choice for free.
She explained the woman wanted a quick weave bob.
“The process of installing it is we are going to braid it down. Mold the hair. Put her sitting under the dryer so it gets hardened and then glue it on top and straighten it and then cut,” said Palfrey.
“It was a good experience, it made me feel good about myself,” the client said.
Palfrey adds that in the Black community, hair is viewed as the crown.
“It is a part of our culture. It brings us joy and it expresses who we are as a person, and the styles are limitless,” she said.
She hopes to inspire the next person.
“Around this time of the year, things may be a little hard, so if you're able, whatever it is, whether it's hair, food, or clothing, lend out a helping hand and bless someone in need,” she said.
More information on her services can be found here.
