THE STORY BEGINS WITH DUKEBKILLNEM

Dukebkillnem’s relationship with hair began long before he knew it would become his purpose. As a young boy, he was deeply fascinated by texture—especially curls. Whether playing in his cousin’s doll hair or experimenting with straight and curly styles, hair was always calling him, even when he didn’t yet have the words for it.

As he grew older, that curiosity evolved into passion. He spent hours in salons alongside his cousins, quietly observing, absorbing the energy, the artistry, and the transformation that happened in those chairs. At home, he practiced constantly—learning by doing, guided by instinct.

In high school, his path tried to divert him. Placed in a different program instead of cosmetology, he walked past the cosmetology classroom and felt something undeniable: this is where I belong. With determination, he advocated for himself—convincing his mother and teachers to let him transfer. He could only see one future, and it was in that room.

Once enrolled, his journey truly began. He worked tirelessly on his mother’s and aunt’s hair, transitioning them from relaxed to natural, ultimately growing their hair to over 26 inches of healthy natural length. That success lit the spark that would define his career.

While traditional academics never inspired him, beauty school did. Every moment felt aligned. Through assisting, hands-on practice, and working with natural hair, he learned not only technique—but people. Their stories. Their confidence. Their vulnerability.

It was there he discovered the most powerful truth of all:
hair has the ability to transform confidence in an instant.

That realization made his purpose clear. Hairstyling wasn’t just something he enjoyed—it was who he was meant to be. What started as curiosity became passion, and passion became purpose.

This is not just a career.
This is the beginning of a legacy.