– Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is Jad’Ha Harper, and how would you describe yourself to someone who has never met you?
I am a woman who wears many hats. I am a hairstylist at Fine Line Hair Studio, an entrepreneur who creates natural hair growth products, and a nursing student pursuing my passion for helping others. However, my most important and rewarding role is being a mother to my seven-year-old son.
I am ambitious, hardworking, and passionate about everything I put my heart into. I believe that each role I carry contributes to the woman I am today and the woman I am continuously becoming.
Where were you born and raised? How did your upbringing influence your course of life?
I was born and raised right here in Roanoke. I was exposed to many different experiences, both positive and challenging, growing up that helped shape my perspective on life. My upbringing taught me early on that life will not always be easy, but perseverance is everything.
I was fortunate enough to witness people in my life face adversity without giving up, and that has remained one of the greatest lessons I’ve carried into adulthood. No matter what challenges come your way, you have to keep moving forward, putting one foot in front of the other.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
I entered the workforce and began navigating life as a young adult. Not long afterward, I became pregnant with my son, which marked the beginning of a life-changing chapter. During my pregnancy, I relocated to Georgia, where I continued pursuing my education in nursing. That period of my life taught me a great deal about responsibility, independence and determination. Becoming a mother gave me an even greater sense of purpose and motivation to create a successful future.
What is your official title, and what do your responsibilities consist of?
I am the owner of I Am Beauty Hair Care. My responsibilities extend beyond simply styling hair. I focus on promoting healthy hair care practices, educating my clients on proper hair maintenance, and providing quality services tailored to their individual needs. I believe that a great hairstylist not only helps clients look their best, but also creates an environment where they feel comfortable, valued, and confident.
How important is family to you?
Family is everything to me. I believe family plays an essential role in shaping our values, building our character, and providing the strength we need to navigate life’s challenges. Family represents love, support, and a sense of belonging. No matter what I accomplish in life, the people I love and the relationships I share with them will always be among my greatest blessings.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
Oh, that’s an easy one! This playlist would include Drake, Chris Brown, Mariah the Scientist, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Brent Faiyaz, and Jazmine Sullivan. I love a good mix of R&B songs you can sing your heart out to, and music that sets the perfect vibe for a long drive. With those artists, six hours would fly by.
What are some of the most memorable moments you’ve ever experienced?
One of my most memorable experiences was taking a cross-country road trip with my family. We packed up and drove from Roanoke all the way to Las Vegas without stopping overnight. It was truly an unforgettable experience. Being able to travel across the country, see different landscapes, and create those memories with my family was something I’ll always cherish. It reminded me just how much beauty and adventure there is in the world beyond what we’re accustomed to seeing every day.
What do your hobbies consist of?
Some of my favorites include crafting, coloring, and decorating. I’ve always enjoyed activities that allow me to express my creativity and bring my ideas to life. Whenever I get the opportunity, I love taking a little time to slow down and do something creative just for myself.
Which people have influenced your life the most?
Without a doubt, my greatest influence was my granny, Vivian Harper-Jones. She was the definition of a strong, remarkable woman. In my eyes, there was absolutely nothing she couldn’t do. She had this incredible ability to make everyone around her feel special, loved, and important, as if they were her number one priority. What I admired most was her strength and the grace with which she carried herself. No matter how much she had on her plate, she never seemed overwhelmed or defeated by life.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
To never doubt yourself or underestimate what you’re capable of achieving.
You have the ability to accomplish everything you’ve ever dreamed of, but you must first believe in yourself. Not everyone will recognize your potential, support your vision, or understand the path you’re taking, and that’s okay. Your confidence and determination cannot depend on the approval of others.
