Entrepreneur Creates Positivity and a Growing Business

We heard from Adrianna, a recent graduate from the INVEST entrepreneurship program that Pioneer Human Services operates in partnership with Vault89. She is growing her business and constantly searching for ways to diversify her services.

Incarceration to New Ventures: Elevating Success Together (INVEST) was created to help justice-involved individuals become successful entrepreneurs. Through INVEST, participants learn the skills, mindset and tools needed to start/grow/expand a business.

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Adrianna’s Story

“In 2021, when I was laid off from my job during the height of COVID-19, I turned my passion into purpose and founded my business, Slay Theory. What began as a way to support myself has grown into a brand that not only provides high-quality wig styling and sales but also educates clients about hair density, textures, lace quality, colors, and how to properly maintain their wigs. My goal has always been to ensure women feel confident, empowered and knowledgeable about their beauty choices, while also supplying the tools and products needed for proper hair care.

In 2023, I was charged with a federal drug offense and sentenced to three years of probation while I was five months pregnant. That experience—fighting for my freedom throughout my pregnancy—taught me resilience and sharpened my determination to build a better future for myself and my child. While I was never incarcerated, living under federal supervision at such a pivotal time in my life, fueled my motivation to create something lasting and positive out of my circumstances.

Entrepreneurship Program
I first heard about the INVEST program through my longtime friend, Miyekko Durden, who encouraged me to apply. At the time, I knew I needed expert guidance, structure and motivation to scale my business beyond a passion project. The program gave me exactly that: the opportunity to legitimize my business, gain critical financial literacy and learn how to think strategically as an entrepreneur.

Through INVEST, I gained the confidence to step into leadership as a business owner. I now analyze challenges critically, evaluate opportunities with a professional lens and manage my finances with clarity. More than anything, I walked away with a renewed sense of belief in myself and my ability to build a sustainable and impactful business.

Planning for Expansion
Looking ahead, I plan to expand Slay Theory in several key ways. I intend to partner with cosmetology schools to teach wig installation classes, form contracts with hospitals to provide medical wigs for patients experiencing hair loss, and eventually open a full beauty supply store and training center. My website, showcases my work and will serve as the foundation for scaling into e-commerce and broader outreach. It’s also the site I use to book my clients. Feel free to check me out! 

For others who are justice-involved and considering entrepreneur- ship, my advice is this, ‘Don’t let your past define your future. Lean into your passions, stay open to learning, and never be afraid to ask for guidance.’ Programs like INVEST exist to help you take your vision seriously, and with commitment and perseverance, you can transform your challenges into stepping stones towards success.”