News Summary
Teens Slay University is a summer program in East Memphis focused on teaching hairstyling and braiding skills to girls aged 9 to 17. Founded by Donna Carol, the initiative promotes personal growth, professionalism, and community building. Participants gain valuable skills while boosting their confidence and social skills. The program, which encourages camaraderie among peers, also prepares girls for potential careers in the beauty industry. New applicants are welcomed as the official opening of the East Memphis location approaches.
East Memphis: Teens Slay University Empowers Young Girls through Hairstyling and Community Building
This Fourth of July, nearly 30 girls aged 9 to 17 are participating in Teens Slay University, a summer program dedicated to teaching hairstyling and braiding skills. This initiative is taking place in a newly renovated space at the Mendenhall Center in East Memphis and is aimed at helping young girls discover their talents while laying the foundation for potential careers.
Founded eight years ago by entrepreneur Donna Carol, Teens Slay U emphasizes personal growth through the lens of faith, encouraging participants to build, create, and serve one another. The program seeks to instill a sense of purpose in the participants, helping them grow into their best selves.
A key benefit of the program is that it not only equips young girls with hairstyling skills but also teaches them about client relationships, professionalism, and basic business practices. This multifaceted approach helps participants prepare for future careers in the beauty industry while also fostering personal confidence.
Among the young girls is 12-year-old Azariyah Freeman, who views the program as an opportunity to gain valuable experience in hairstyling, aspiring to turn it into a full-time career. Additionally, 17-year-old Addison Campbell, who has experience in braiding for four years, reported a significant increase in demand for her hairstyling services, pointing towards the program’s effectiveness in honing practical skills that can be directly applied in the community.
Participants highlight a strong sense of belonging and community within the program. Dereani Bowen, another participant, noted the uplifting positive energy created by being surrounded by peers who encourage and support each other. This sense of camaraderie is an essential aspect of the program, fostering connections that extend beyond hairstyling skills.
Teens Slay University not only aims to teach technical skills but also strives to enhance the self-esteem and social skills of its participants. The program currently has room for new applicants, encouraging more young girls to join and experience the supportive environment that it offers. In addition, it is available for booking hairstyling services from its participants, thereby allowing them to practice their skills in a professional setting.
The official opening of the East Memphis location is scheduled for August 9, 2025. As the program continues to expand and evolve, it remains committed to empowering young girls by providing them with the resources and support necessary for personal and professional growth.
Teens Slay University exemplifies a community-driven initiative, showcasing how youth programs can play a crucial role in shaping the lives of young girls by fostering skills, confidence, and connections that can last a lifetime.
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Additional Resources
- Local Memphis: Braiding a Future
- Local Memphis: Braids and Business
- KATV: New DNA Testing
- Action News 5: Teen Pleads Guilty
- Commercial Appeal: Store Clerk Guilty
- Wikipedia: Hairstyling
- Google Search: Teens Slay University
- Google Scholar: Hairstyling Education
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hair Salon
- Google News: Memphis Youth Programs
