Still a high school student, Kia S. Smith is a skilled and successful eyelash technician. Photo: Provided

Young Professional Kia S. Smith, centre, with some of her trusted clients. Photo: Provided

17-year-old Kia Shekera Smith's approach to life and business and her inner strength and vision have propelled her into the spotlight as one of the Virgin Islands’ most promising young entrepreneurs. Photo: Provided

Clients of Kia S. Smith display their eyelash work. Photo: Provided

This mantra from 17-year-old Kia Shekera Smith encapsulates not only her approach to life and business but also the inner strength and vision that has propelled her into the spotlight as one of the Virgin Islands’ most promising young entrepreneurs.

Born to Ms Sharon V. Springette and Mr Kirbin Smith, on September 18, 2007, at the then Peebles Hospital in Tortola, Kia managed to turn a casual curiosity into a thriving lash-business, all while balancing school, self-development, and personal passions.

My own boss!

Her journey into lash artistry began in an unexpectedly serendipitous way. “What inspired me to start doing lashes is when my mom—Queen of Lace Empire—bought a lash kit so she could start, but she never studied it; So, I would go and use the lash kit on days when I was bored and quickly fell in love with lashing.”

That idle exploration transformed into something more purposeful, when at just 14 years-old, Kia began working her first job. Now, at 17, with three waitressing jobs behind her, she has found clarity in entrepreneurship, telling Virgin Islands News Online (VINO), “I’ve realised it’s not for me, I love being my own boss.”

Building a brand before Graduation

Kia, currently a student at Elmore Stoutt High School, is set to graduate in June 2025. She also attended Ebenezer Thomas Primary School. Balancing academics and business is no easy feat, but Kia has crafted a routine that allows her to nurture both.

She shared with VINO that, “During school break, I work from 11 to 5 pm, but on days when I have school, I only take one client after school.”

A typical day, she said, includes performing full sets, fill-ins, or removals for clients, some of whom travel from as far as East-End just to get their lashes done by her.

What keeps her going? “I enjoy the fact that I make girls feel prettier on a daily basis; That girls love my work so much they travel all the way just to do their lashes by me—that means a lot.”

Trials, Errors & Triumphs

Success, Kia was quick to point out, didn’t come overnight. “When I first started my business, I would struggle with retention or didn’t know how to properly tape down clients to prevent fumes from getting into the eyes; Clients would say some of their lashes fell out and this was very bad for my business.”

The fallout was difficult, she recalled and shared, “I’ve even had a girl post up about my business which made people not want to book. During this time, I was very unmotivated and felt like quitting. So many people would talk down my business… I thought it would be best if I just closed.”

Kia chose resilience; however, and said “...I did research and looked at what I was doing wrong and perfected it. I found the perfect glue that would give me good retention. I also focused on perfecting my craft, and with these changes, I started getting more clientele. Now I am booked up every month.”

'The Lash Tech'

Her dedication is paying off. “When I started to get more recognised, everyone would call me the lash tech; Students in my school would book me—even the adults that worked at the school. They tell me how good my work is. One of my lash videos went viral and I got endless compliments.”

Despite the momentum, Kia remains grounded. “A part of me is still afraid to put my work out there or even do pop-up shops, but I hope to accomplish that goal sooner or later.”

A taste for the culinary arts

Still a teen, Kia said she envisions a broader empire in the coming years. “I see myself investing into my business and starting a product line—selling my own lash trays and glue. I even plan to open a store right here in the BVI. Of course, I’ll also be going to college to study other things.”

With her ambitions not limited to the beauty industry, Kia also takes cooking classes in high school and sees culinary arts as another avenue for growth. “Food is definitely one of my passions; I plan to explore that in the future. I believe in following all your passions and never limiting yourself.”

While Kia isn’t currently involved in any formal clubs or organisations, her concept of community is deeply rooted. “Giving back to my community means using my skills and time to uplift others; Whether it’s sharing knowledge, supporting local causes, or inspiring young people to follow their dreams—it’s about making a positive impact and helping others grow alongside you.”

Philippians 4:13

Her words to the youth of the Virgin Islands,“...never underestimate the value of your talents, especially in fields like beauty and self-care; This work is more than just enhancing appearances—it’s about helping people feel confident, empowered, and seen… Don’t be afraid to dream big and start small.”

A quiet but resolute faith underpins everything Kia does, as she shared, “Philippians 4:13 says, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” and explained, “...this Bible verse has stuck with me since primary school days as we would say it every day. Yes, it is a prayer, but it’s a very meaningful one.”

In an age where young people often face criticism for being too focused on digital life, Kia is a refreshing example of vision, discipline, and heart and her message isn’t just for lash techs or budding entrepreneurs—it’s for anyone with a dream.

“My lash journey wasn’t easy, but I’ve come a long way and I’m proud of the growth and strength it took to get here; No matter where you start, with hard work and faith, you can create the life you dream of.

"And remember, success isn’t just about money or fame; it’s about doing what you love and making a positive impact.””