Quincy University student Tonijah Bush is using her talent for hairstyling to help fellow students feel confident and beautiful—one braid at a time.

From a young age, Bush found joy in styling hair. When she was 11, her mother bought her a hair doll, sparking what would become her creative passion. She spent hours practicing styles, experimenting with twists, braids, and unique looks that she now brings to her peers on campus.

“Usually when I braid QU students’ hair, they come to my dorm lobby in Garner Hall. I charge $30 to $40 to get their hair braided. I do a lot of twists and braids, mostly braids to the back and half-up styles,” Bush said.

Bush’s small but growing business offers an affordable way for students to get high-quality hairstyles without the steep costs found at salons. For many, her services are more than just a convenience—they’re a confidence boost.

Hayven Harden, one of Bush’s regular clients, said her experience getting her hair done by Bush always leaves her feeling renewed.

“Nijah does my hair about once a month, I like getting it done by her because she always makes me feel confident and pretty when she’s finished,” Harden said.

Bush’s reputation has spread among Quincy University’s student-athlete community, where she’s known for creating fresh looks before big games. Her skills offer athletes a chance to feel their best while allowing Bush to refine her craft and experiment with new styles.

Hampton Williams, a QU basketball player, said Bush has become her go-to stylist—and a friend.

“I normally start with ideas from Pinterest and then just have her freestyle a little bit too. She does my hair the day before a game, so we don’t have to rush through it. What I love most is that we get to chat and watch a show to pass the time while she does my hair,” Williams said.

Her mini “salon” in the dorm lobby has become a place where students share stories, laugh, and unwind while getting a confidence boost through a new look.

With growing word-of-mouth and consistent client satisfaction, Bush is now a small but important part of campus life. Her work combines artistic expression, community connection, and entrepreneurship.

Bush said she’s always open to welcoming new clients and learning new braiding techniques. She hopes her work helps others embrace their beauty while continuing to grow her own skills.

Through her passion for hairstyling, Bush has braided more than just hair—she’s woven a sense of community, confidence, and empowerment throughout the halls of Quincy University.