By: Noko Mashilo
Hairdresser Victoria Makgoo is known for her magical touch. Her unique hair plating technique has made her a symbol of style and beauty. Makgoo told Vutivi News that people loved to feel good about themselves. “That’s why I see doing hair as a special treat. A little luxury that makes people feel great. I love starting and finishing different hairstyles. Seeing the immediate results of my work each day is really satisfying,” she said.
Makgoo explained that a lack of job opportunities led her to become a hairdresser. “I lost my office job seven years ago. Then, one day, I remembered the talent I had as a teenager. It felt like a voice told me that my purpose was to do people’s hair. So, I started with a few clients and gradually became popular, not only in my village but also in nearby places.”
She specialises in various hairstyles like knotlebraids, braids, straight back and up, freehand/cornrow, needle, Benny and Betty, twists, and other custom-made styles. Her most popular style is freehand, especially for children. “It’s easy to maintain and doesn’t take much time. If I wait too long, it might be harder to do, especially if the hair is dry or has dandruff and needs washing first. Otherwise, I can do up to five in a day,” she said.
Makgoo takes pride in her technique while doing hair. “I start from the left side and move to the right because I’m right-handed. This method helps me work effectively, starting slowly and finishing quickly.” According to Makgoo, a good hairdresser should be friendly and pay close attention to details when working on hair. “Your salon must be clean and well-kept to make clients feel comfortable and relaxed,” she advised.
The hairdresser had to overcome huge challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I had no business for the whole year. When salons were allowed to reopen, I followed government rules strictly. I wore masks and gloves, sanitised my hands, and asked clients to do the same. Thankfully, my clients cooperated, and we managed to work safely,” she said.
Born 35 years ago in Morapaneng village in Burgersfort, Limpopo, Makgoo dreams of expanding her hair salon business. She hopes to open branches all over the Sekhukhune and Capricorn districts. Her goal is to offer make-up, nail, and spa services, making her salon a one-stop beauty destination.
