Today we’d like to introduce you to Susy Oludele
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey started in the Bronx, where my Nigerian roots and the city’s energy shaped the person I am today. Growing up, I always had a creative spark, and as a teenager, I began experimenting with hair. What started as a passion quickly turned into a career. But the road wasn’t always smooth—there were tough moments, including periods of homelessness, that forced me to get creative not just with hair, but with life itself.
I didn’t let adversity define me. I enrolled in cosmetology school while juggling the hustle of city life, and from there, I started to build my vision. I was determined to turn my talent into something bigger. I began creating intricate, sculptural hairstyles that got noticed by those in the entertainment industry, and before I knew it, I was behind some of the most iconic looks in Hollywood.
But it wasn’t just about personal success. My community has always been at the heart of what I do. I’ve worked hard to uplift and support others, and as my career grew, I felt it was important to give back. That led me to create my own line of hair products and extensions, pushing the boundaries of innovation and offering something that felt personal, yet accessible.
In 2023, I had the honor of bringing my talents to the Broadway stage with Jaja Hair Braiding, a Tony Award-winning production. It was surreal, yet another dream realized. Today, I run a thriving salon in Brooklyn and have a location in downtown LA, where I continue to create, inspire, and empower through my art.
Every step of this journey has been a testament to resilience and the power of creativity. And just like the hair I style, the possibilities continue to grow, with no end in sight.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been an easy road at all. I’ve faced homelessness, and there were times when people didn’t believe in me or my vision. On top of that, I struggled with fibroid issues that took a major toll on my health, making it hard to keep going. But through it all, I refused to give up. Those challenges taught me resilience and strength, and they shaped me into the person I am today. Despite the setbacks, I’ve learned to appreciate every victory even more.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Hairbysusy?
My business, HairbySusy, is all about celebrating natural beauty and creativity through hair. We specialize in natural hair, braids, and protective styles, offering a range of services that cater to every texture and need. What sets us apart is our ability to create unique, artistic hairstyles that are both functional and stunning. I’m incredibly proud that we’ve built this brand from the ground up, starting in my bedroom, to now having two locations—one in Brooklyn and another in downtown LA.
We’re also known for using our own high-quality products, including braiding hair, edge control, and hair oil, ensuring that our clients get the best from start to finish. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of styling some of the biggest names in the industry, like Beyoncé, Solange, Zoe Kravitz, Chris Rock, and Meg Thee Stallion, to name a few.
What I’m most proud of is how far we’ve come. It’s been a journey of resilience, creativity, and pure hustle. I’m different because I bring my unique artistic vision to each client. Hair isn’t just about styling for me; it’s about creating wearable art with every look. My brand is about empowerment, self-expression, and showing the world what true beauty looks like in every strand.
In addition to our salon services, we’re excited to announce that HairbySusy will be hosting workshops! These workshops will focus on teaching the art of natural hair, braiding techniques, and protective styles, empowering others to master their craft. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, these sessions will offer hands-on experience and expert guidance. It’s another way for us to share our passion and creativity with the community while giving back to those who want to learn and grow in the industry.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Something surprising that most people might not know about me is that before I fully dove into the hair industry, I was deeply involved in photography and fashion. I used to own a brand called Susy’s Closet, where I sold vintage clothes, and I also ran a modeling agency. I spent a lot of time capturing nature, events, and working on personal photo projects. Those experiences really shaped my creative eye, and I think that’s part of what makes my work with hair unique, it’s all about telling a story and creating art, whether through a photograph or a hairstyle.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Hairbysusy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hairbysusy/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/hairbysusyteam/
- Youtube: https://YouTube.com/africancreature
Image Credits
Photography: Oye Diran
Photography: Canvas Photography
