In an interview with Esther Ijewere, the 24-year-old part-time mass communication student recounts her determination and how she’s convincing male customers she is good at her job. She also talks about how she aspires to be one of the most celebrated female barber in Nigeria.
‘I can’t really say because it was not planned.. as at the time, I usually pass time in a barbershop, so I thought, it won’t be nice just sitting here without helping out. So I started helping out by washing a customer’s hair and applying aftershave.I started finding it interesting and wanted to do more, that was how it began, ‘ the Akwa-Ibom born female barber said.
About balancing school and work, Gift said it has not been easy. She said:
‘Combining school and work is really not easy, it can be extremely stressful and tiring but it’s worth it.. when I’m at work, it’s all about work but whenever it’s time for school and studying, it’s a very important time that I try to make sure every minute counts.. still pushing it.’
‘The harsh reality is that, no matter how good you are, there are people who will not take you seriously because of your gender. I have had customers who won’t allow me touch their hair because I’m a woman and have had others’