Today we’d like to introduce you to Toyah Love Moses.
Hi Toyah, I’m so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, how can you bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Embarking on a journey that traces back to my teenage years, I found an unexpected passion for braiding hair. The artistry, however, needed to be more consistent during my youth, and a pivotal moment arrived at 19 when my grandmother, battling stage four cancer, shared a prophetic vision. In her final moments, she encouraged me to pursue hairstyling. Although I didn’t fully grasp her words, I carried them. I was met with surprising encouragement after conveying her message to my mother. My potential in hairstyling was recognized even when I had barely practiced. While living in Atlanta, my fascination with African hair shops grew. Witnessing a hairstylist masterfully coil a young man’s hair ignited a spark within me. I thought, ‘I can do that.’
Initially, I dabbled in styles like flat twist coils and individual coils, which were trending at the time. My experimentation remained occasional, and I never seriously considered it. Relocating to Denver, Colorado, for studies and ministry work, I encountered unique hair techniques such as SisterLocks. These intrigued me, yet I hesitated to commit fully. Upon moving to Washington State, the idea of entrepreneurship took root. I reflected on my ability to start locks, a skill I had honed with temporary coils. Exploring possibilities, I stumbled upon a lock shop and made a life-changing call. The owner’s guidance steered me towards sharpening my skills and barber school, marking the inception of my journey as a Loctician. Investing in my skills, I undertook the SisterLock course, the VMicrolocs Certification Course, and the Tuff Cutz Wicks Course. The transition to the East Coast led me to Patrick Moses, now my husband and business partner. A barber shop owner and former Paul Mitchell instructor, his influence empowered me to embrace my gift as a Loctician and establish my own business. With operations spanning multiple locations—Washington State, Sumter & Columbia, SC, and Stone Mountain, GA—I’ve honed my skills and networked with fellow entrepreneurs.
As a Master Loctician, I take pride in owning Love Locs Academy. Partnering with Valencia, the owner and founder of VMicrolocs™️ , and her husband Timothy Reels at NatUReels Glory Studio further amplified my trajectory. We have expanded our vision by launching a haircare line, including a vegan product range named Ceven. Our journey remains dedicated to global education and growth. This transformative experience is a testament to faith, perseverance, and the remarkable power of seizing unexpected opportunities.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road to where I am today hasn’t always been smooth, but those challenges have shaped me and my journey. Initially, embracing hairstyling as a serious career path was a struggle. Despite my passion for braiding, I didn’t see it as something I could excel in. Doubts lingered, especially considering I had yet to practice consistently. When my grandmother prophesied that I should pursue hairstyling, it was inspiring and confusing. Understanding her message and finding the confidence to take that leap was a hurdle.
Moreover, I faced self-doubt as I transitioned between various locations and life chapters, unsure if hairstyling could be a sustainable path. Yet, each struggle became an opportunity for growth. The decision to invest in my skills through courses like SisterLock, VMicrolocs Certification, and Tuff Cutz Wicks was pivotal. Partnering with my husband, Patrick Moses, who became my business partner, brought immense support and a renewed sense of purpose. Another challenge was transitioning from hairstyling as a passion to turning it into a full-fledged business. Establishing Love Locs Academy, developing our haircare line, Ceven, and expanding our reach involved its share of obstacles. Navigating the intricacies of entrepreneurship and the demands of a growing business was a learning curve, but it ultimately enriched my journey. Through these struggles, I’ve learned the importance of resilience, adaptability, and seeking out mentors and collaborators who believe in your vision. Challenges have a way of revealing strengths you didn’t know you had and igniting a determination to overcome them.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Absolutely! I am a Master Loctician with a profound specialization in various aspects of locs and dreadlocks. My expertise extends to multiple services, including Loc Extensions, Microlocs, SisterLocs, Loc Repairs, and advanced techniques like Loc Combining and Custom Locs.
My commitment to a holistic approach sets me apart in this field. I don’t just provide services; I foster an educational environment where my clients can truly understand and embrace their loc journey. I aim to empower individuals with knowledge about proper care, maintenance, and styling options tailored to their unique hair. I take immense pride in the intricate artistry that goes into my work. Whether creating natural-looking loc extensions or meticulously repairing damaged locs, each service reflects my dedication to enhancing the physical appearance and the overall health and vitality of my client’s hair. But what truly makes me proud is the journey itself. I’ve been privileged to witness personal transformations through hair transformations. The confidence my clients gain from their locs is gratifying. Additionally, I’m proud of launching Ceven, our vegan haircare line, which underscores my commitment to promoting healthy hair from within. My approach is characterized by expertise, education, and a genuine passion for fostering healthy, beautiful locs. I strive to set a new standard in the industry, not just as a Loctician, but as an educator and advocate for self-care through proper hair maintenance.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I admire most about this city is the strong sense of community, which resonates like a tightly-knit family. The genuine care and support that people here offer each other create a warm and, inviting, heartwarming atmosphere. This community is rooted in deep connections and a shared commitment to one another’s well-being. As for the aspect I like least, every place has challenges and improvement areas. However, focusing on the positive, I appreciate your city’s proactive attitude in addressing these challenges. This drive to create positive change speaks to the resilience and determination of the community to enhance its environment for everyone’s benefit.
Contact Info:
- Website: Ceven.com
- Instagram: Toyahlovelocs
- Facebook: Love Locs Academy
- Youtube: Love Locs Academy
Image Credits
Phrozen Memories Photography Joseph & Shannon Echols
