Although it is not uncommon to see people stay in the same field for decades, it’s impressive how one can dedicate years remaining committed to a single overarching purpose. Nowadays, jumping ships and shifting tracks are considerably easy feats, considering that the rise of digital technology has blown the doors of opportunities wide open and offered a wide array of options. However, for celebrity hair artist and educator Lana Kurayeva, leaving behind the very same profession that powered her through all of life’s challenges is unimaginable.
With nothing on her back but dreams of securing a better life, Lana Kurayeva and her family moved from Uzbekistan to America when she was a teenager. Her mother and father braved the uncertainties of starting anew on foreign soil, sacrificing everything they had to give their children a chance at the future they deserve.
A week after finding a new home in the United States, Lana Kurayeva landed a job as a volunteer in a salon, a milestone that would herald the beginning of her journey toward the cosmetology industry. In the months that followed, the hard worker poured time and effort into gaining the knowledge and experience she needed to rise above her circumstances. While she had to learn the ropes in about forty salons within her first year of work, she continued to set her eyes on one goal: to be a professional in her field and open her own salon.
Through sheer determination and fueled by a deep-seated passion for her craft, Lana Kurayeva managed to translate her vision into reality. Today, the public figure and beauty and hair expert holds the honor of standing as the only board-certified hair colorist in the City That Never Sleeps. Additionally, the Hair Color Academy creator serves as one of the most in-demand hair colorists in the space, armed with knowledge collected from twenty-five of practice and training.
Lana Kurayeva is also the mind behind “Balayage & Airtouch in One.” This masterclass, which is designed for beginners and practicing masters alike, focuses on the theory and analysis of two advanced hair coloring techniques – Balayage and Airtouch – and helps students not only understand the A to Zs of achieving stunning hair but also gain insights on growing a social media platform to boost one’s brand.
It is undeniable that the reputable standing that Lana Kurayeva has been able to secure and cement throughout her career can be attributed to her expertise and experience. But, deserving of credit, as well, is her emphasis on the welfare of her people.
“My salon is my second family, so I treat each employee with care,” shared Lana Kurayeva. “I work according to the principle ‘Treat people the way you want them to treat you.’”
Lana Kurayeva may have already dedicated close to three decades to the hairdressing and cosmetology industry, but she does not plan to leave anytime soon. Instead, in the years to come, she hopes to educate hair colorists worldwide and highlight the profession as a sought-after and highly fulfilling career.