Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaleesa Mathis.
Hi Jaleesa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started my journey in the beauty industry fueled by a passion for creativity and a desire to help people feel confident in their own skin. Growing up, I was always inspired by hair and makeup artistry, but it wasn’t until later in life that I truly stepped into my calling. As a working mom balancing school, family, and entrepreneurship, I pushed through challenges, completed my cosmetology training, and built my own salon—JSM Natural Glam Studio.
Along the way, I discovered the power of natural hairstyles and locs, which became my specialty. My work expanded beyond the salon as I began doing editorial makeup, runway shows, and backstage styling for major fashion events like New York Fashion Week and Carolina Urban Fashion Week. I also started plus-size modeling, stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing new opportunities that aligned with my love for fashion and beauty.
What has kept me grounded is my vision to create generational wealth and a legacy for my children. Every service I offer, every show I walk in, every product I develop, is rooted in my belief that beauty is more than appearance—it’s empowerment. Today, I am not only a salon owner and stylist, but also a creative director, model, and soon-to-be product developer, building a brand that celebrates natural beauty, artistry, and community.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Absolutely not—it hasn’t been a smooth road at all. As an entrepreneur, a mother of a sassy little girl, and an autistic son who amazes me daily, my journey has been filled with challenges that tested my strength and patience. Balancing family, building a business, and pursuing my passion hasn’t been easy. There were many days I wanted to quit, moments when I questioned myself, and times when it felt like everything was happening at once.
But those struggles shaped me. They taught me resilience, discipline, and the importance of giving myself grace. I learned how to push through long nights, early mornings, and the doubts that come with stepping out on faith. Each challenge forced me to grow—not just as a businesswoman, but as a mother, a creative, and a leader.
The road may not have been smooth, but it has been worth it. Every obstacle prepared me for the opportunities I have now, and I carry those lessons with me in everything I do.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a licensed cosmetologist, salon owner, and creative director specializing in natural hair care, loc artistry, and editorial makeup. Through my business, JSM Natural Glam Studio, I’ve built a brand centered on enhancing confidence and celebrating individuality—whether that’s on the runway, behind the chair, or in front of the camera.
I’m most proud of turning my passion into purpose after losing my mother, who always believed I would build something lasting. Every hairstyle, look, and creative project I produce is a reflection of that legacy.
What sets me apart is my ability to merge beauty with storytelling—I don’t just style hair or do makeup, I create experiences that honor culture, creativity, and authenticity. My work has been featured in various fashion shows, and I continue to mentor and collaborate with other creatives to elevate the standard of beauty representation in our community.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me is my faith and my family. God is truly the center of my existence—I’m a firm believer that there has to be something bigger and greater guiding us, and that belief keeps me grounded. My circle is small, but it’s powerful: my little family, my sisters and brothers, my nieces and nephews, and even the church mothers and fathers from my childhood who still call just to remind me that they love me and are praying for me. Their voices and their faith in me have carried me through some of my lowest moments.
Everything I am is because of them. I don’t always get it right, but the mantra I grew up with still carries me: “I’m with you when you’re right, because you’re right… and I’m with you when you’re wrong, to help you get right.” That constant love and accountability are what matter most to me, and they are the foundation of everything I do.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jaleesasyntrise.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jsm_naturalstudio?igsh=cG93ZDFzY29wMXVv&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJE624ccw/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaleesa-mathis-438604259?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@jaleesasyntrise?si=xZP-8sJpYFxJjNpU
