Zayd Soufi

"The money is excellent, plus the opportunity to work with people is rewarding."

I was studying to be a graphic designer when a dear friend told me about eyelash extensions. I didn’t think much of it. She said, “you really have to see this procedure, it’s remarkable.” When I saw the procedure and witnessed the client's reaction, I was astonished. The artistry intrigued me but I didn't consider becoming a lash stylist. However, I was looking for a career change and I didn't want to work with only computers. I wanted to work with people. This was an excellent opportunity. The great part is...I had a feeling and made a decision in December 2005 that something was going to change the following year. Something was going to happen to redirect my path. Two months later, I saw this opportunity and went with it. I called the company and said, 'Hey, I want to sign up!' and they asked what I did for a living and I said, 'I’m a graphic designer.' They said, 'You cannot take our class.' I said, 'Why not?' 'Because we require students to be licensed in the industry - cosmetology, esthetics, or the medical field.' I asked, 'In this case, what's my best option?' They said, 'You should acquire an esthetics license because you’ll need it one day in the future, as eyelash extensions continue to get more popular.' So that’s what I did. I went to school, and when I was half way done they allowed me to take the eyelash extensions course. Afterwards, I had serious doubt for weeks. I didn't love the work and I wasn't good at it - at all. But I already invested all this time and money and thought I was stuck with it. Eventually, something just clicked while I was working. I got really good and began to enjoy it thoroughly. The money was excellent, plus the opportunity to work with people instead of mainly computers was rewarding. I’ve always been creative and so I enjoy lash artistry. I eventually contacted the company about becoming a trainer. I made it through the rigorous boot camp training and began traveling to teach others. Being paid to travel was always a childhood goal and I am doing something I really enjoy. It's a winning combination.

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Zayd Soufi

Stylist Information plus/minus buttons

18.3 years with Xtreme Lashes

Certified Xtreme Lashes Stylist

Stylist

Austin, Texas

"The money is excellent, plus the opportunity to work with people is rewarding."

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