Interview with Keisha Harris

We recently caught up with Keisha Harris, the serial entrepreneur, to talk about entrepreneurship.

UTM: Who is Keisha Harris?

When you asked me Who is Keisha Harris, that was one of the hardest questions I’ve ever had to answer in my life. I am a woman, and one who comes from a family of primary strong Black women. Today, I am a 40-year-old mother of 2 beautiful and talented young adult daughters, and a licensed cosmetologist/business owner who knows what I want and goes for it no matter the risk, struggle, or time it takes to complete my mission.

UTM: Now girl, we see you are a serial entrepreneur!! You have your hands in beauty, wellness, interior design and photography. What inspired you to start a Diamond Kutz empire?

The thing that inspired me to build an empire is making sure that I’m the 1st but not last of my family to create ongoing generational wealth. I don’t see many men or women who are business owners within the black community setting up to leave legacies for the next generation to continue. I want to make sure that mine are taken care of and I hope that this can be a form of inspiration for our community to start setting these opportunities for their families.

UTM: When did you first realize you wanted to become an entrepreneur? Explain.

Since middle school, I always knew that id own my own hair salon, but I never thought that I'd be working in it. My dream job was to be an orthodontist and own a salon on the side. I entered and serviced the dental field for 10 years as I continuously ran away from hair. That was until I finally decided to attend cosmetology school for the 3rd time and stepped out on faith to open my 1st salon back in 2011. I wouldn’t say it was an easy journey, but it was well worth it. I now aspire to create an all-things beauty empire. I feel that beauty from head-to-toe increases confidence, self-esteem, and self-love.

UTM: Being an entrepreneur at times their comes rejection or disappointment, what keeps you motivated?

First and for most, I do everything I do for my kids. It may be cliche, but my biggest goal is making sure I’m able to leave a legacy behind for them and those after. I would also say that I do it for the naysayers. When it comes to putting yourself in any type of debt, for example, purchasing a home or a car, it’s always congratulations. I find it amusing that when it comes to investing in yourself and starting a business it’s the total opposite.

UTM: What has been the best advice anyone has given when it comes to business?

I’ve never received any direct advice from others in my industry, but I’ve paved my way through watching and observing. My uncle once told me that I should always stay true to myself no matter how well or bad the business is doing, while learning to maintain my character, integrity, and loyalty towards clients.

UTM: If you could have anyone, dead or alive, as a client who would it be and why?

I've never been the typical starstruck individual, but if we’re talking celebrities, I'd be grateful and honored to give a transformation to anyone willing to sit in my chair. I would love for the next chapter of my career be to venture out into celebrity styling, sitcoms, and movie productions, in which I’ve already started my journey working on set with Sheen Magazine.

UTM: Any words of advice for future entrepreneurs?

I believe that God gave everyone a talent or more which should be used to provide your everyday living. You have to step out on faith and once you take that first step, God will take the rest.

UTM: Where can people find you on social media?

@diamondKutzbeauty or Keisha Harris on all social media platforms

Photos by: Jeremiahs Photography