Charleston Job Corps Center is observing Black Business Month with local entrepreneurs during the month of August. Students and staff will receive presentation during Monday Business meeting by local business owners.

Today’s guest speaker was Tonya Wilson, owner of The Essence of Beauty Hair Salon. Wilson shared with students and staff personal experiences that led her to make positive changes in her life. Wilson was born and raised in Charleston WV and went to local schools before attending Charleston School of Beauty where she obtained her beautician’s license. She has been in the business for twenty-five (25) years. “The only thing that can stop you from being successful is you” said Wilson to an audience of 200.

Giving back to the community is a priority in the life of this entrepreneur. Wilson gives back through club membership with the Charleston Women’s Improvement League and her local church Militant Pillar Ground (MPG) of Truth, Charleston WV. She serves as Youth Pastor in her local assembly.

Continuous learning is a high priority in her life. She is enrolled in Bible College majoring in theology. She is married with two children and four grandchildren whom she loves dearly. Wilson encourages anyone who is negatively labeled by society by saying “Don’t allow anyone to make you a statistic.” The Essence of Beauty is located at 4088 Virginia St. West, Charleston, WV 25302.