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This Woman's Work: Charlotte Mensah - Beauty Entrepreneur

Charlotte Mensah, 42, lives in Notting Hill with her husband and two children and is the owner of the multi award-winning hair salon Hair Lounge and is currently Afro Hairdresser of the Year.

BB: How long have you been a hairdresser?

CM: I've been working as a hairdresser for over 28 years. My love affair with hair began when I was 13. I just loved looking at magazines like Ebony and Essence and looking at these beautiful black women. I would try to replicate the styles I liked on my three year-old sister. I really loved using my creativity to recreate different looks - the rest is history!

BB: How difficult is it juggling motherhood and your business?

CM: It can be as challenging as it is rewarding and I've learnt to manage my time wisely. As a mother running my own business, my time is my most limited resource. I love what I do; it's a blessing; however managing multiple roles in both the home and on the business front, you need to be realistic as to what can be achieved each day.