Prior to becoming an Entrepreneur, I studied IT, Information Systems Development to be precised, with over 10 years of experience in the industry with a Masters degree in Information Systems Development & Mathematics. Specialized in databases and have worked for Housing associations, London Borough of Camden and Hackney. I was also doing network marketing on the side with a bit of hairdressing as a hobby since I’m very creative and like to take on challenges.

In January 2006, I travelled to Sierra Leone for an introduction as my boyfriend at the time asked me to marry him, coming from a strong family, he was advised to meet my parents and family to seek properly for my hand in marriage but our joy was turned bitter when we all encounter a fatal accident where I lost my dad.

Since then I suffered shock, memory loss, pain, severe trauma, depression, stress, broken heart, broken engagement, broken ankle, self pity, to name a few. It took me first 2 years not able to discover myself and I was also very broke. What kept me going were constant prayers, good friends and neighbours that check on me daily and weekly.

Strength came one day after I just had my quiet time and a little voice inside me said snap out of it fast and turn your pain to gain, it won’t be easy but you will conquer. I became so determined and so I got very busy and very serious in the word of God. I began using my hairdressing skills to keep my mind focus and in so doing, it birth out Anaya Hair & Beauty. I gained a lot of clients from all nations and this pushed me to go back to College and studied all types of hair gaining level 2&3 Diploma Women’s Hairdressing Afro Caribbean, European and Asian hair. I later studied Beauty Therapy and understanding all skin types level 2 Diploma.

This was how I was able to beat the ugly side I went through. I changed my way of thinking and circle of friends (Connect MIE), I don’t watch too much TV. I fell in love with the word of God over again, reading inspirational books, attending events, meeting people who also have gone through hard times; I also became a Mary Kay Beauty Consultant in 2008 until 2016, gain good mentors and friends. I joined Mary Kay again when the pandemic hit the world so o could do something from home since my hairdressing platform was paused for over 5 months due to the covid-19 that caused us to loose 40% of our clients.

I’m still work in progress and so excited now than ever as we have grown to a team of stylists’ and barbers in different locations and the best is yet to come.

I’ve been featured on Pearl Woman Issue 4volume 2 cover page with other influential women, the 6th annual women4Africa Award UK cover, a feature of our hair care oil Alpha Sisters on C.Hub magazine/online, various blogs such as the top 30 mobile hairdressers in the UK, Loretta reveals (TED’s speaker) blog The Anaya Kamara Story, Leadership minds Ambassador’s blog, latest All Shades Covered ASC Ambassador (Hair extensions & hair care), etc
Being an Entrepreneur I also support and promotes others by showcasing their businesses and talents which gives me joy in seeing them succeed and I use my social media platforms and blog to achieve this.

My growing team Anaya Hair & Beauty and I, are also in the process of launching ASMOK Foundation, in memory of my parents and loved ones, we aimed to bring hope and make a change to the youths that are less privileged in furthering their education, skills/talents and to also mentor, empower and innovate them so that they can reach their potentials and give back to the community.

I’m so grateful that I overcame the challenges and hardships where it seems almost impossible to breakthrough. Anaya Hair & Beauty has been a therapy that has helped me to appreciate second chance and to be focused not just on myself but learning to work with others and in so doing it has create a new world in inspiring and encouraging others.

My story as of to date has been published on some well known blogs, radio stations and magazines. I’m currently mentoring others on overcoming trauma, hardships and using your gift and talent to contribute to the community whilst developing and changing your mindset for growth and empowerment. I’m also in the process of completing my first book on my journey so far and also launching an App soon to connect other hairdressers across the UK taking it National.