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Michael Salazar never let go of his dream to own a men’s grooming salon, through family crises, addiction, anger issues and incarceration.
“I didn’t know anything about success,” says Salazar, who at 33 is transforming his life through the help of the Workforce Development Board (WDB) and its partners at the CityWay Community Economic Development Corp. Since entering the program, Salazar has put in motion his plans for a barber salon and hair-grooming training school, while marketing a line of all-natural hair and skin products.
“Growing up, we didn’t have much. My mother and myself, we were living in a shelter. My father had left. As a child, I had to figure out things,” he says. He was wired with what he calls a poverty mindset, which in turn led to addiction, anger issues and trouble with the law. But he also discovered a passion for cosmetology from a local barber and began cutting hair in backyards and on the streets.
“Cutting hair for me was an escape,” he says.
Once connecting with CityWay, he put together a business plan for his own shop and is seeking licensing for a barber school. “They’ve offered mentorship and an overall blueprint for success.”
He hasn’t forgotten his troubles of the past.
“I was failing. I was self-sabotaging. I was so full of addiction I couldn’t see straight.”
But he is determined to make it right – by him and others. “God told me I have a talent, and so what am I going to do with that? I’ve learned that by staying positive and focused, a supernatural strength will intervene.”
Additional County Update News – July 18, 2024
- County fire district designated a Fire Risk Reduction Community
- Chief Munsey honored with FirstNet Patriot Award
- First 5, Public Health featured on FOX 11 Good Day L.A.
- ARMC recognized with national awards for commitment to patient care
- Construction alert: I-10/Cedar Avenue Interchange Project
- County to host street vending workshops
- County Animal Care chief appointed president of CalAnimals
- Free pet adoptions all month long
- Sheriff’s operation helps dozens of homeless residents
- Operation Consequences: June 29 through July 12
- Veterans Affairs serves those who serve our country
- A Workforce Development success story
- San Bernardino County destinations
- San Bernardino County history
- Things to do in San Bernardino County
- Pet of the Week