Former College student flies high in the world of business

Dana was inspired to start her own business, Luxe Hub, selling wigs, clothing and accessories after she was unable to go to her school prom due to the lack of industry professionals in her area who specialised in services and treatments for black women.

Dana, who studied Level 3 Music Production at Barnsley College, said:

“I have been interested in starting my own business since I was 15 after I shaved my hair completely bald and wanted to the ability to switch up my look from time to time. I started making wigs and came to realise that there are some women who are going through things like cancer and alopecia who, like me, want a chance to change their look without worrying about the time it might take to grow their hair out.

“Wearing wigs has been a protective hairstyle for black women like myself and I really wanted to express my creativity through them.”

Barnsley College’s Enterprise department is home to the iTrust initiative, a joint venture between the College, The Barnsley Chronicle and The Business Village supporting students interested in starting up a business in Barnsley. Students receiving support from iTrust, have access to an array of information and guidance such as mentoring from industry specialists and local businesses and financial investments.

Dana has been working on her business plan for three years and has now launched her very own e-commerce website where she manages the shipment of the lashes, accessories and wigs that she has created. Dana is due to receive her iTrust grant, totalling up to £250, which she hopes to utilise sourcing products and purchasing equipment to further expand her product range.

Jess Widdowson, Enterprise Team Leader at Barnsley College, added:

“Dana-Leigh has been incredibly driven since I first met her back in February. Since then, her business has gone from strength to strength and she now has a line of high-quality and bespoke products. I can see huge potential in Dana’s business and look forward to seeing it develop and grow in the future. It has been a pleasure to support Dana.”