Woman of the Month - October, 2009

Past 2009 Awardees: [Sep] [Oct]

Name: Karaine Smith-Holness

Occupation: Founder and CEO       

Employer: Sistahs Jammin' and Hair's Kay Beauty Salon

Location: New Haven, CT

Education:

State Academy of Cosmetology, Orange CT

Professional development courses at Dudley Cosmetology University in Kernersville, NC

Woman of the Month Interview

Q: What is the mission of the Sistah’s Jammin’?

For women to have one week for themselves; where they are free to be whatever and whoever they want to be. 

Q: Why did you start Sistah’s Jammin’?

Sistahs Jammin started as an event at Hair's Kay Beauty Salon. In 1999 I invited Debrena J. Gandy, author of “Sacred Pampering Principles: An African-American Woman's Guide to Self-care and Inner Renewal” to an event where we focused on empowering women to take care of themselves, guilt free.

The event was very well received and I decided to do it again in another country. I chose Jamaica, my native country and we have had a women empowerment event there ever since.

Q: How does Sistah’s Jammin promote the development of women?

Sistahs Jammin' essentially gives women permission to say "I am woman, hear me roar!"  We women often wear so many hats and a woman-only event provides a much sought after opportunity to express themselves without limits.

Q: What hurdles/setbacks that you faced in your career? How did you overcome it/them?

As an entrepreneur, I’ve faced many hurdles, including the requirements and expectations of family, clients, friends and associates.  However, a hurdle that every woman must face and overcome is a belief in self.  Women often do not believe that they are deserving of time for themselves or they do not see the true value of Sistahs Jammin’: To be served or ministered to.  During Sistahs Jammin' we make it a point to stay at 4 and 5 star resorts where we are pampered.  Sistah’s Jammin’ is an excellent opportunity to overcome this hurdle by trying something for yourself.

Q: Given a chance, would you choose a different career? Why (not)?

No.  I love what I do; challenges and all. I get to meet amazing and dynamic women that I learn from. From my experience, I have learned that no matter age, money or background, as women, we all face the same issues and fears. If I were doing something else, I would miss out on that.

Q: Describe yourself in three words... 

Patient, caring and non-judgmental

Q: What are you best at?

I am best at connecting people.  In order to do that I have to listen and truly understand a person’s needs.  It's about recognizing that it is not about me; these people come into my life seeking direction and help and I am happy to provide it.

Q: How do you achieve work/life balance?

I have a wonderful husband and a great support team. I don't believe there is such a thing as work/life balance. At some point or another, one takes over. You deal with it the best you can.  However, understanding that you need to eat right and exercise consistently goes a long way to staying healthy.

Q:  Do you have/have you had mentors/role models? What role have they played in your personal/professional development?

Yes. I have a mentor who is also the owner of a salon.  My clients are also my role models. I share everything with my clients; even this interview. My entire life is comprised of learning opportunities regarding my clients. For example, one of them taught me how to use a computer, another provides financial/investment advice, and still another assists me with my business development opportunities. They are much like an extended family and are very important to me. 

Q: What is your favorite quote and by whom? 

"You can get it if you really want." -- Jimmy Cliff

Q: What are your interests in your leisure time? 

Q: Are there any goals/ dreams that you are yet to fulfill?

I would like to have the ultimate salon. It would be in an old Victorian house with a garden and sunroom. I would serve tea and clients would be able to enjoy the sunroom even when it's snowing. It would be an overall escape for clients.

Q: Networking – What tips can you suggest for successful networking?

My suggestion is to have an open mind. You never know where your help is going to come from.