We had the good fortune of connecting with Yava Briscoe and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yava, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Being a convicted Felon looking for employment it was hard out here for me at one point. Having to deal with the consequences and choices you made can really take a toll on you. After sending off several resumes, only To be denied it was time that I had that “conversation” with God. I was actually contemplating suicide due to the depression of the rejection of the workforce. So I told God (on the way to fax my LAST resume) that I couldn’t take it anymore and this was “IT”. Upon arrival to the copy center, I took a deep breath, went in and faxed it over. When I exited I saw a that someone had opened a barber college in the same center. I hurried over to see what It was about and took an informational packet. Inside of that packet read “If you are on probation or parole you are eligible for a scholarship”. The next day I immediately went over and sought inquiry. Come to find out the lady that owned the barber college was the same person who faxed my resume over the day before. We sat down and I told her my situation. After we discussed that she looked me in my eyes and told me to bring her the money for my books and that I would be receiving a full scholarship to barber college. After that…I never looked back. My documentary “From the Block 2 The Barbershop” is set to release Feb 7, 2021. This journey tells my entire life story and my journey into barbering. I am now a Master Barber/Master Educator and I am currently sharing my gifts with other aspiring barbers and stylist all across the US. From the class room to trade shows. My testimony is one that I share often because you NEVER know who you are inspiring and motivating.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My main area of expertise is in cranial prosthetics and hair loss. I take pride in helping my clients gain their confidence back and just seeing their faces after the process makes my heart smile. Lessons I have learned along the way is NEVER stop learning, Keep your ideas to yourself, and NEVER give up! My brand is more than just a haircut or unit service. I provide a vibe, nothing but positive energy and affirmations. Not only do you walk out feeling good on the outside…you will on the inside as well. #BuildingUniteOfConfidence

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
So I would Go with Tulum…Cancun or Playa Del Carmen. I am a traveler and Mexico is a reasonable, fun, quick trip! I would consult with my personal tour guide Gerardo who services all of those areas to set up all excursions. Tulum- we would swim in the cenotes, visit the Mayan ruins, atvs in the jungle, zip line. Cancun-jet ski, speed boat, henna tattoos, boat tour, snorkeling I’m very adventurous and I absolutely love water and outdoors.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give the honor and Glory to the Most High (God) for always keeping me! My mother Rhonda Briscoe who has been my BIGGEST support system. Joyce Simmons (Diamonds Barber College) for pouring into me and believing in my vision. Drema Williams and Sipp The Surgeon for motivating me to take my career to the next level and helping me along the way.

Website: Www.slappedbyyavado.com
Instagram: Slappedbyyava
Facebook: Yava Do
Youtube: Yava Do

Image Credits
Kauwane Burton

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