Meet Lalonie Willhite of Kalamazoo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lalonie Willhite

Hi Lalonie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
At the age of five, I entered the foster care system, moving between families of various nationalities. This experience often left me feeling out of place, especially when it came to my hair, which many of my foster families struggled to care for. The teasing I faced at school motivated me to learn how to style my hair myself, helping me build confidence despite the instability of my living situation. This early challenge ignited a passion for self-expression through beauty that would help shape my future.

As I approached high school graduation, I took advantage of dual enrollment to start my journey in social work. However, I soon discovered a passion in cosmetology, a field that resonated with my love for hair care. After obtaining my cosmetology license, I pursued an instructor’s license to deepen my knowledge and share my skills with others. This led me to open Dream of Kalamazoo, a space for beauty professionals that has thrived for over 12 years, allowing me to create a community around quality beauty services.

Driven by my experiences in foster care, I founded the Dream of Kalamazoo Foundation in 2022, partnering with local salons to provide free hair services to foster and adoptive families. Additionally, I wrote a book titled I’ve Already Made It, sharing my story to inspire others facing challenges. In 2020, I launched Hydr8 Organics, an all-natural hair care line. Throughout my journey, I have remained committed to following God’s guidance as best as I can, believing that every venture should align with His plan. My experiences have taught me the importance of perseverance, self-discovery, and the power of sharing one’s story to inspire others.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My life has not been a smooth road, and it still isn’t. I’ve faced the challenges of abandonment by my mother and not knowing my father. Raising three boys in an evil world, I strive to instill in them basic principles, manners, and respect for elders while trying to shield them from its harsh realities. This journey has led me to lean more on God for strength and guidance.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am the culture creator of three businesses and one foundation. I influence and help shape the cultural landscape of a community or organization through my ideas, creativity, and actions. As an author, owner, creator, inventor, and entrepreneur, I introduce innovative concepts and practices that resonate with others to help build a collective identity. I foster positive work environments by promoting values like collaboration and innovation, inspiring individuals to engage with new perspectives and contribute to a vibrant cultural atmosphere.

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Yes, I’ve learned that in life, anything can happen, and many times you’re not necessarily ready for it. We’re also not in control of what happens to us as much as we would like to be.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Lalonie.com
• LinkedIn: Lalonie Willhite