Throwback #7: "Go Getta": Ursula Stephen

(Originally posted 8/12/08)
"Bob" often comes and goes. He's back right now and he's very far from wearing out his welcome. He first fell in love with Rihanna but has quickly made his way around the industry- and beyond. So, who's responsible for re-releasing this shear genius? One name: Ursula Stephen. I recently had the chance to chat with Ursula on her success and achievements.

How did you get started in cosmetology?
I went to a vocational high school in Brooklyn. I studied cosmetology straight through high school. When I graduated I left with my license and diploma. It was definitely a significant part of my life.

Was Rihanna your first major client? What other celebrities do you work with?
Yes, Rihanna is definitely one of my biggest clients, however I do work with others- Keyshia Cole, Michelle Williams, Keke Palmer("Akeelah and the Bee"), Karina.


I know Rih-Rih travels a lot; often from one extreme climate to another. What do you do to maintain straight hair in humid weather?
Sometimes you can't fight nature, so you have to work with it. If we're in a humid climate and her hair won't listen, I may opt for a textured look.

Is FHI Hot Sauce still your favorite "must-have" product? Tell us why!
Yes, Hot Sauce is still on my list. I like it because I work with clients that require again and again heat- so I need to protect their hair. And this product is lightweight and non greasy and that's important in preserving a hairstyle!

It's been said that many highly successful people don't sleep. What keeps you going? I'd like you to finish the following sentence: "It's late and I'm really tired BUT..."
Wow good question. Hahaha, I take power naps while interviews are being taped or sneak back into the dressing room during the performance, and those naps are like 15 min but feel like forever. Its late and I'm really tired, BUT tired is too close to fired.


Well said! I'd just like to thank Ursula for taking time out of her busy schedule for HBS. I think she serves as a real inspiration- she didn't attend any big name beauty school. I remember when it was time for me to go to high school, one of the majors I was interested in was cosmetology. Unfortunately, my parents weren't having it and so I ended up at an art and design school instead. But soooo many girls that I knew in the Bronx were getting their cosmetology licenses in high school and for most it seems to have paid off- as in Ursula's case.