Omolola Akinboade expands beauty training across Africa

Nigerian beauty entrepreneur and founder of LolaExpress Hair, Omolola Akinboade, has expanded her professional footprint across Africa through a series of training and mentorship programmes to equip beauty professionals with advanced technical and business skills.

Akinboade recently concluded engagements in South Africa and Zambia, where she conducted masterclasses, consultations and one-on-one coaching sessions for hairstylists, salon owners and beauty entrepreneurs.

The initiative, which took place between April and May 2026, focused on strengthening professional standards in the African beauty industry through practical knowledge sharing and skills development.

In Johannesburg, South Africa, Akinboade led a three-day masterclass that brought together hairstylists and beauty professionals for intensive training on advanced hair installation techniques and professional hair colouring.

Participants received hands-on instruction designed to expose them to premium hairstyling methods and emerging industry practices.

Speaking on the importance of practical learning, Akinboade said empowering professionals with real-world skills remains central to her mission.

“Whether you’re in Nigeria, Zambia or South Africa, people want to improve their skills, build stronger businesses and serve their clients better. Those goals are universal,” she said.

According to her, the beauty industry has evolved beyond technical competence, making continuous learning and business development essential for long-term success.

“Professionals today need both creative skill and business understanding. The most successful people are often those who continue learning, adapting and investing in themselves,” Akinboade added.

The South African programme also featured collaborations with public figures, including an actress and a digital influencer, helping to showcase African beauty expertise to wider audiences.

Following the Johannesburg engagement, Akinboade travelled to Zambia, where she extended her activities beyond classroom instruction.

During the visit, she provided one-on-one mentorship, worked with salon owners and their teams, delivered professional consultations and offered bridal hairstyling services. She also collaborated with local beauty professionals and content creators as part of efforts to promote knowledge exchange within the industry.

Reflecting on her experience across both countries, Akinboade said teaching has become an important part of her professional journey.

“Every opportunity to teach is also an opportunity to learn. The goal is not simply to build a brand but to leave people with something valuable they can apply long after the training ends,” she said.