Success Stories
Our graduates are building thriving careers and businesses in hair braiding. Discover how LYS School helped transform their passion into profession.
Featured Stories
Meet some of our remarkable alumni who are making waves in the industry.
“LYS School gave me the skills and confidence to open my own salon within a year of graduating. The hands-on training was exactly what I needed.”
“The hands-on training was incredible. I felt prepared from day one in my new career. Mrs. Yolande truly cares about each student's success.”
“Flexible evening classes let me work while getting licensed. Best decision ever! Now I have my own shop and a growing team.”
“I went from braiding as a hobby to running a team of 4 stylists at my own studio. LYS School changed my life.”
More Graduate Stories
Every graduate has a unique journey. Here are more stories of transformation and success.
Jasmine Thompson
Class of 2023 | Chicago, IL
Jasmine's Braiding Studio
“LYS School gave me the skills and confidence to open my own salon within a year of graduating. The hands-on training was exactly what I needed.”
When I first walked into LYS School, I had been doing hair informally for years but wanted to make it official. The program taught me not just technique, but business skills too. Now I run a studio with three chairs and just hired my first employee. My dream came true faster than I ever imagined.
Michelle Robinson
Class of 2024 | Evanston, IL
Locs by Michelle
“The hands-on training was incredible. I felt prepared from day one in my new career. Mrs. Yolande truly cares about each student's success.”
I chose LYS School because of their specialized locs program. What I found was so much more than technique training - I found a community. The support I received helped me launch my mobile styling business, and I now serve clients across the North Shore.
Tanya Williams
Class of 2023 | Oak Park, IL
Twisted Elegance
“Flexible evening classes let me work while getting licensed. Best decision ever! Now I have my own shop and a growing team.”
As a single mom, I needed a program that worked with my schedule. LYS School's evening classes made it possible. I graduated, got licensed, and within 18 months opened Twisted Elegance. We specialize in family-friendly braiding services.
Kendra Davis
Class of 2022 | Chicago, IL
KD Styles Studio
“I went from braiding as a hobby to running a team of 4 stylists at my own studio. LYS School changed my life.”
I always loved braiding but never thought I could make a career of it. LYS School not only taught me to perfect my craft but also how to run a business. Three years later, I have a studio in Bronzeville with four stylists on my team.
Monique Harris
Class of 2024 | Chicago, IL
“After graduating from LYS, I found my passion wasn't just braiding - it was teaching others to braid. Now I train the next generation.”
LYS School didn't just teach me to braid - it showed me my calling. After working in salons for a year, I realized my true passion was education. With LYS's teacher certification program, I'm now helping train the next generation of licensed braiders.
Find a Graduate Stylist
Looking for a skilled, licensed braider? Browse our graduate directory to find professionals near you.
All LYS School graduates are Illinois-licensed professionals trained to the highest standards. Support our alumni by booking their services.
Browse DirectoryReady to Write Your Success Story?
Join the LYS School community and start your journey toward a rewarding career in hair braiding.