Melissa Simpson, owner of Lashes & Beyond, formed a partnership with the #NCWorks #NextGen program in August 2020 to provide employment and training opportunities to aspiring #cosmetologists. After 25 years of experience with her craft, Melissa wants nothing more than to help the community and give back. Currently, Melissa is mentoring Serae, who recently completed her Natural Hair Specialist Certification at Durham Tech. Serae is already a shop favorite and the other staff
By: Crystal Taylor, Lead Career Coach Industry: Hospitality & Tourism, Retail Quantez was enrolled into the #NextGen program on August 19, 2019, as a referral from #UrbanMinistries, where he was residing. Quantez moved to #DurhamNC from Roanoke Rapids after facing some legal issues and found himself homeless. With all his barriers, he stays motivated and determined to make steps towards having a positive future. From the beginning, Quantez had a plan on how to accomplish his