Miya Hair: A testament to love, resilience, and success
For Candacy Benjamin, the path to success has been paved with determination, challenges, and unwavering dedication. Originally hailing from Guyana, Benjamin’s journey as a hairstylist began with humble beginnings but has since blossomed into a thriving career in the bustling city of New York.
With a career spanning over a decade, her journey into the hair styling world started in her homeland before she ventured to the Bahamas to hone her skills further. Upon arriving in New York, she pursued other avenues to support her daughter. She soon realized her passion for doing hair could be her ticket to financial stability and personal fulfillment, so she created Miya Hair, named after her beautiful daughter.
Miya, a beacon of light in Benjamin’s life, was born with special needs, requiring constant care and attention. Despite their challenges, Miya was her mother’s biggest motivation and driving force to succeed in a daunting world.
Photo courtesy Candacy Benjamin
In 2017, Benjamin boldly decided to immerse herself fully in the hair styling world. Despite facing stiff competition and self-doubt, she invested in herself, acquiring products, appliances, and marketing strategies to establish her brand. Her perseverance paid off, and she quickly gained traction in the industry in Queens and beyond.
She explained, “Doing hair is something I became more passionate about because when the women whose hair I would style tell me how amazing they feel and how much their confidence was boosted after getting their hair done, I started taking it more seriously. So I started investing in myself to improve my skills, and the word got around, and things just took off for my salon.”
Miya Hair, located in Richmond Hill, Queens, stands out not just for its exceptional service but also for the story of love and perseverance behind its name. It is more than just a business — it is a tribute to the unwavering love and determination that inspires and drives a mother.
Photo courtesy Candacy Benjamin
“Watching my daughter fight seizures, fighting her disabilities, undergoing numerous surgeries and doctor’s appointments, and she has made it through all of it; she is the one person who made me continue to do what I am doing,” Benjamin shared.
Professionally, Benjamin encountered numerous challenges, navigating through a competitive landscape while juggling the responsibilities of being a single mother to a daughter with special needs. Benjamin envisions expanding her business, building a solid clientele base, and collaborating with celebrities to elevate her brand. Despite the challenges that lie ahead, she remains steadfast in her determination to succeed and provide exceptional service to her clients.
“I will continue to put my best foot forward and build my brand one day at a time, and I want to thank everyone for their support, including my family, friends, and amazing clients who trust in me,” she noted.
As she continues her journey, Benjamin’s story inspires aspiring hairstylists and entrepreneurs alike, proving that anything is possible with passion, perseverance, and a steadfast belief in oneself. You can support Benjamin by following her on Instagram @miyahair1 or call her at 929-592-0160