Biblical Streets: Mark Lane mom and daughter form hairdressing team

Cynthia Grant-Miller and her daughter Kay-Ann Miller are two of the more sought-after hairdressers in Mark Lane in western Kingston.

They operate from their home and said their talent offers them a form of independence, enabling them to be their own bosses.

According to Grant-Miller, she has been styling hair for more than three decades and it was only fitting that she introduced her daughter to the field.

"I can do all types of hairstyles, you know, and living in the inner city, I knew it was important for my daughter to have a skill. I didn't want her to fall by the wayside. I realised that she had the potential and she liked doing hair, so I taught her all I know, and she is a very quick learner," she said.

A mother of three, Kay-Ann said she always had an interest in cosmetology, and like her mother, earned her first dollar at age 16.

"I used to watch her work when I was a child and sometimes she would allow me to help her plait out the braids when she was with a client, and that is how I practised. It's natural for teenagers to also comb each other's hair, so I also hone my skills on my friends' hair," she said.

Miller told THE STAR that the bulk of their clients are from the community, but they also attract persons from other areas.

"The place peaceful most of the time, but sometimes the stigma will prevent a person from coming in. I pray for the

day when I will see more opportunities being handed down to the youth in the area, as there are some idle hands who are there - not by choice, but because they don't see a way out," she said.