Bringing Beauty from Jamaica to Dunbar with Kerry-Ann Wilkinson
I am chatting with Kerry-Ann Wilkinson in Dunbar to talk about her new venture, the Fab Institute of Beauty. Kerry tells me her hustle is all about beauty, a passion she’s had since childhood. Now, she’s channeling that passion into a beauty school where she plans to train future hairstylists, makeup artists, and wax specialists.
We’re in front of her new building, which will soon be a hub for beauty education. Kerry has been in the industry for over 20 years, running her own salon for the past eight. Now, she’s transitioning into education, with students already signed up from across the U.S.
Kerry shares her story with me, explaining that she’s originally from Jamaica and came to the U.S. on a scholarship to the University of Charleston. She studied business and marketing, worked in banking, and eventually pursued her dream of going to beauty school. After graduating, she opened her salon and never looked back.
She encourages people to just start when pursuing their passions. Kerry admits that starting her beauty school has been challenging, but she emphasizes the importance of making mistakes and learning from them. Mentors are valuable, she says, but if you can’t find one, your own experience can guide you.
Kerry’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to start small and build up. She began by selling small amounts of beauty supplies and has grown her business step by step. She understands that financial setbacks can be an obstacle but encourages people to seek out grants or other resources.
The Fab Institute’s curriculum is designed to provide students with state-accredited licenses in hairstyling, waxing, and makeup artistry. The program is set apart by offering specialized kits and training on “money-making techniques,” helping graduates find success in the beauty industry without having to rely on side jobs.
Kerry’s goal is to elevate the industry and provide her students with the tools they need to succeed. The school is set to be fully operational soon, and she is eager to start marketing once the doors officially open. The Fab Institute of Beauty promises to be a place where students can learn, grow, and ultimately build empires of their own in the beauty world.
As we wrap up, I’m struck by Kerry’s drive and focus. She’s a perfect example of what it means to hustle—working hard, making sacrifices, and always striving to improve.