In news that should inspire everyone, a young Black autistic woman has just opened a beauty salon.
Aaliyah Alicia Thompson is a 21-year-old entrepreneur from Stockbridge, Georgia.
She recently opened a beauty parlor in Clayton County, Aaliyah’s Beauty Bar.
The beauty salon is just 15 miles away from Atlanta.
Aaliyah’s Background

Aaliyah’s Beauty Bar
When Aaliyah was still a kid—5 years old, to be exact—she got an autism diagnosis.
This is devastating news to most people.
But not Aaliyah.
She relentlessly pursued her studies and made significant achievements.
In high school, Aaliyah was an outstanding student and graduated with honors.
Her Inspiration For Starting A Beauty Bar

After school, Aaliyah landed a job at Touched by an Angel Beauty School and Salon.
Based in Jonesboro, Georgia, the school ignited Aaliyah’s passion for beauty.
The 21-year-old received hands-on experience and honed her talent.
After seeing Aaliyah’s love for beauty, her mom Patricia Terry suggested that Aaliyah open a beauty parlor.
This would let Aaliyah express her passion and creativity and make her successful.
Naturally, Aaliyah loved the idea.
With her family’s support, Aaliyah opened Aaliyah’s Beauty Bar; in the process, she became the first woman in the country to achieve such a feat.
A Beauty Bar Worth Visiting

Aaliyah used her designs and ideas for the beauty parlor, making it distinctively hers.
It caters to beauty and hair needs like nails, makeup, braids, and locks.
The beauty parlor also offers convenience: customers can walk in without making an appointment.
The beauty parlor is open throughout the week (from Sunday to Sunday), and you can find it at 3797 GA 138 Suite F, Stockbridge, GA 30281.
Aaliyah is living her dream and hopes to be an inspiration to everyone, especially to families dealing with autism.
She wants to show them that persons with autism can achieve anything they wish if they have the proper drive and support.