Humans of Iqaluit: Cheryl Kinak
Speaking in a soft, shy voice, Cheryl Kinak nonetheless mesmerized the audience gathered for a panel on young entrepreneurs at the 2018 Nunavut Trade Show. Cheryl founded a mobile hair salon in Arviat, Nunavut, and although she is still in her mid-twenties, she already has more than 10 years of experience.
When she was 14, Cheryl started offering free hairdressing services to her family and friends. In following years, she further developed her passion. Although she was a busy mom and already had a full-time job, Cheryl continued to offer her services after work and on weekends. Her client base kept increasing, and she finally decided to open Cheryl’s Do or Dye Mobile Hair Salon. Mentored and partly financed by Inspire Nunavut, Cheryl now offers personalized hairdressing, nails, and cosmetics services.
While Cheryl may be quiet, she is very active and savvy about social media. She uses Facebook to attract and retain clients with various contests, and she has already provided services for people from all across Canada and even from other countries.
Nunavut is not an easy place for young entrepreneurs, either. Rental costs are high, internet access is often limited… But Cheryl kept striving to achieve her objectives. “I wanted to be my own boss, so here I am!” she said just before receiving a big round of applause in the Arctic Winter Games Complex community room in Iqaluit.
We were very happy we had the chance to meet Cheryl during our visit to Iqaluit. We wish her all the best in her future projects. She is a true inspiration for all young entrepreneurs, in Nunavut and beyond!
