Namibian men push for gender diversity in traditionally female-dominated beauty industry

WINDHOEK, March 30 — Namibian men are pushing for gender diversity in the traditionally female-dominated local beauty industry.
A year ago, the thought of being a nail technician excited yet jumbled Aktofel Kankono. Coming from a conservative society, venturing into the trade was far-fetched for the 19-year old until he decided to enroll in a nail training course, which opened his career in the beauty industry.
“I was the only guy in attendance at the training and was too conscious about what people might think of me,” said Kankono on Tuesday.
A year into business, his trade as a nail technician has brought him more than just a substantial income.
“It gives me satisfaction to add color to people’s lives through nails art. I am glad I did not give in to my negative thoughts and limitations,” Kankono said.
Being a male nail technician has profoundly impacted his business and life. “Through the experiences, I have grown professionally in terms of networking and developed a firmer character,” said Kankono, who is also a student at a local university.
He is not the only one. More men daringly ventured into the diverse vocations the beauty industry offers.
Merino Kandjii from Windhoek runs Merino Cuts. After working other jobs in the tourism and hospitality industry, he fell back on his true passion- hairdressing.
“I’d say it almost came naturally as I’m an artistic person and hairdressing is an area where I can apply my natural ability to create. Fortunately, I also had the opportunity to study this in South Africa,” Kandjii said.
Although he initially encountered gender prejudices from society for doing a ‘woman’s job’, transforming clients and actualizing their visions gives him great pleasure.
“I think that gives me the edge and sets me apart. I am passionate about offering superior, quality services to my clients, and I feel grateful to be able to do something that I enjoy. I take the personal hair journeys of all my clients to heart,” he added.
Samuel Shimhanda, a seasoned nail technician, said that business had been more than just about him since his career took off.
Apart from aiding the health of nails and skin of many locals through his craft, he strives to debunk stereotypes that doing nails is only a ‘female job’.
According to the 2021 Global Gender Gap report by World Economic Forum, no country of the 35 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa has yet achieved full gender parity. Data points to significant challenges for gender parity in future jobs due to increasing occupational gender segregation.
Moreover, gender experts observed that men venturing into careers mainly seen as ‘jobs for women’ by many people in society is not new but was instead done out of the limelight.
Ngamane Karuaihe-Upi, a relationship consultant, based in Namibia, said that just like there are women who are great builders, plumbers, electricians, farmers, soldiers, there is ample space to accommodate all genders in being productive contributors to the development of the economy.
“It is time to adjust our vision and mentality regarding what men and women can do. No need for boundaries and limitations. Archaic rules and views cannot curtail human potential, and to evolve is inevitable and assured. The more diversity we encourage, the better for Namibia and the world,” Karuaihe-Upi said.
Meanwhile, marketing efforts inclusive of social media have been instrumental to their efforts.
“Some clients come out of curiosity through referrals or come back for more,” Kankono said.
While sustaining the brand as a small business owner amid limited access to funding and the COVID-19 pandemic can be challenging, the businessmen said the future looks bright.
“There is great economic potential in this multi-billion dollar industry (cosmetology). I plan to start a hair school here in Namibia to be able to do what I love and transfer the knowledge and skills to others. I plan to expand the business through franchises,” Kandjii said.
Kankono, too, hopes to train others, especially men, to continue breaking gender stereotypes relating to career choices across generations.  (Xinhua)