Dalanda Diang is a 37-year old single parent who lives in London. Dalanda always loved styling hair from an early age, and so after starting at the bottom of the hair trade in the UK 15 years ago, Dalanda was soon working for central London salons. Before long, Dalanda was tending to the hair of celebrities, models and other women who led exceptional and demanding lives – and their hair had to be exactly right. Having perfected her trade and honed her customer service skills at the top, Dalanda quit her high-end salon role and worked from home before the pandemic hit. Over the last six months, demand has been such that Dalanda has just opened a salon in Fulham on an appointment-only basis catering to busy women that require one-to-one salon attention.
Can you tell us a little about your background and the company?
I am a mum of two daughters and am originally from Guinea in Africa. I came to London 15 years ago when I barely spoke any English, but was determined to make a career out of hairdressing, my passion.
How did the idea come to you for the company?
I learned at some of the best salons in Central London, but while there, I decided I could work more effectively for myself.
How did you achieve awareness?
I worked from home before the pandemic hit, slowly building up my client base through online reviews and word of mouth referrals.
How have you been able to gain funding and grow?
I am self-funded
What are the key successes?
Opening my London salon this March after several years of working from home
What were/are the challenges and how have you overcome these?
Juggling all the requirements on being a company owner as well as a mum of two!
What are your plans now/for the future?
Growing my London customer base is key, but I’d like to open several salons across the UK in a few years.
What would you like to share with others to encourage them to start their own entrepreneurship journey?
If you have a dream, just go for it. It’s hard work but worth it. You will succeed eventually.
Can you share you top tips for entrepreneurial success?
Work hard, be determined – and keep going!
Who are the people who inspire you the most and why?
My two children – to give them the best start in life I possibly can
What are your favourite inspirational /motivational quotes?
Dream big or go home!
What are your Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn social handles and also website links so our readers can connect with you?
Instagram – @dalandahair
Facebok – @dalandahair
Linkedin – www.linkedin.com/company/d-l-d-hair
Website – www.dalandahair.co.uk
TSF Reporters
The Successful Founder Magazine is the go to feature-rich magazine for founders on all stages of their entrepreneurship journey .
