The mother of two girls ages 14 and 8, Augusta, Ga.-based nail tech Kamisha Winfield believes all young girls deserve to be supported in their dreams and given a positive outlet to express their creativity. She’s started a program called Polishedtosupport girls in their academic pursuits and to create positive attitudes by teaching proper nail, hand, foot, hair, and skin care.

The young ladies I run across are just looking for an outlet, a listening ear and unfortunately, they are tapping into the wrong one,” says Winfield. “Through Polished, they will learn how to give back to their communities through various events and how to be positive leaders for other young girls who may be facing the same situation. They will be rewarded for their academics, as many struggle for attention in this area.”

The goal of Polished is to uplift every young girl who faces challenges in life and who wants to embark on a career that is fulfilling. “I plan to achieve this by allowing the girls to be open and direct about their feelings, by being encouraging on all levels, and educating them on proper grooming,” she says. “I also want to teach them how to develop and cultivate a career in the field of cosmetology with nails being the main focus.”

“I love the response I receive when I am doing a hand massage for someone who has never been touched, or the relief a client feels when I am performing a pedicure after a long, hard, unappreciated day,” says Winfield. “Those are the moments that propel me forward to show a tattered young spirit how to make a difference. And if I am able to do so one girl at a time, then that’s how I’m going to do it.”

— Judy

Beauty for Good spotlights beauty products, services, and events that benefit a good cause. To be considered for this column, leave a comment below or e-mail details to features editor Judy at Judy.Lessin[at]bobit.com.