Tekena JW

Licensed Cosmetologist with over 10 years of experience delivering exceptional hair care services and achieving top-tier retail sales performance. Passionate about building meaningful client relationships and staying current with emerging trends and techniques. Proven track record of exceeding sales targets and ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction. Adept at managing multiple client needs while maintaining a positive and welcoming atmosphere.

• Licensed Cosmetologist, State of Illinois

Chapter Co-Lead / Board Secretary
Burners Without Borders (BWB) Chicago
2023 – Present

• Co-led chapter initiatives, fostering community engagement and mutual aid efforts.
• Oversaw operations, managed volunteer teams, and coordinated large-scale events.
• Spearheaded fundraising efforts, increasing financial support for community programs.

Program Lead
Shaving Lives, Chicago, IL
2017 – 2019

• Provided free haircuts to the unhoused community, creating a welcoming and empowering environment.
• Managed volunteer coordination, event planning, and partnerships with local organizations.
• Grew the program’s impact by expanding service locations and volunteer outreach.

• Increased client base by 40% within the first six months through targeted marketing strategies and exceptional service.
  
• Achieved a 95% client retention rate by delivering personalized consultations and fostering strong relationships.
  
• Boosted product sales by 30% by curating and recommending specialized hair care products tailored to client needs.
• Consistently exceeded monthly retail sales targets by an average of 20%, contributing to overall salon revenue growth.
  
• Implemented a client feedback system that improved customer satisfaction scores by 15%.
  
• Trained and mentored five junior stylists, two of whom were promoted to senior positions within a year.
• Managed an average of 25 clients per week during peak season, maintaining a 98% satisfaction rate.
  
• Recognized as 'Top Performer' among temporary staff for achieving the highest retail product sales in a three-month period.
• Expanded client base by 35% through community engagement and referral programs.
  
• Introduced a new hair treatment service that increased service revenue by 15%.
  
• Maintained a 90% client retention rate by providing tailored hair care solutions and follow-up consultations.
• Assisted in servicing an average of 20 clients per day, ensuring seamless operations and high client satisfaction.
  
• Completed advanced training in textured hair services, leading to a 25% increase in clientele seeking these services.
  
• Recognized for outstanding performance and promoted to Hair Stylist in 2016.
  
• Performed an average of 50 blowouts per week, consistently receiving positive client feedback.
  
• Achieved 'Stylist of the Month' award three times for exceptional service and client satisfaction.
  
• Provided styling services for over 100 clients during a high-demand promotional event, contributing to a 20% increase in sales.
  
• Received commendation from management for adaptability and professionalism during the temporary assignment.
• Organized and led five major community service projects, benefiting over 1,000 individuals in the local community.
  
• Increased volunteer engagement by 40% through strategic outreach and inclusive event planning.
  
• Secured $50,000 in grant funding to support ongoing and future community initiatives.
  
• Provided free haircuts to over 500 unhoused individuals, enhancing their self-esteem and employability.
  
• Built partnerships with local shelters and organizations, expanding service reach by 60%.
  
• Coordinated a team of 20 volunteers, achieving a 90% volunteer retention rate over two years.
  

Community Engagement and Advocacy:

• Founder and Program Lead, Shaving Lives (2017–2019): Established and led a program providing free haircuts to individuals experiencing homelessness, aiming to boost their self-esteem and confidence.
  
• Volunteer, Chicago Cares: Participated in various service projects addressing critical community needs, fostering connections across diverse Chicago neighborhoods.
  
• Volunteer, Northwestern Memorial Hospital Oncology Floor: Offered support and companionship to oncology patients, contributing to their emotional well-being during treatment.
  Northwestern Medicine
• Volunteer, The Night Ministry: Assisted in providing essential services, including health care and housing support, to individuals facing homelessness and poverty in Chicago.
  The Night Ministry+2Instagram+2Charity Navigator+2
• Organizer, Care Package Initiatives: Collaborated with a small group of friends from a local church to assemble and distribute care packages to individuals experiencing homelessness.
  
• Marshal, Black Lives Matter Marches: Served as a marshal during various Black Lives Matter demonstrations across Chicago, ensuring participant safety and facilitating peaceful protests.
  
• Volunteer, Regional Burning Man Festivals: Actively participate in regional Burning Man events, known as "Burns," engaging in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives to promote a more inclusive community.

Personal Development and Interests:

• Culinary Exploration: Dedicated to self-learning the preparation of healthy, whole-food meals, emphasizing nutrition and wellness.
  
• Spiritual Growth: Actively engaged in practices and studies aimed at personal spiritual elevation and mindfulness.
  

Advocacy and Support:

• Champion for Neurodivergent, LGBTQIA, and Homeless Communities: Committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of neurodivergent individuals, the LGBTQIA community, and those experiencing homelessness, promoting inclusivity and support.