Have you ever met someone with so much passion, so much light, that when they walk into a room, the energy completely changes? Well, Sophia Musto is one of those people. She is more than a hairstylist.
Growing up in Baltimore, she knew that she wanted to be a stylist. In high school she started as a hair washer and then following graduation she went to the Robert Paul Academy.
I had the chance to sit down with Sophia one day to interview her for another publication. After hearing her story and getting to know a little bit more about the woman behind the chair, I was in awe. Her drive, her determination, and her support for her community and other businesses is admirable. She chose to look at the pandemic in a positive light.
After having a difficult start to the year, Sophia decided that she was ready to start her own business. She refused to conform to the lifestyle of her last employer so she found her own space and got to work. Shortly after opening, she continued to further her education and dive into different workshops to help her develop her brand. She created a subscription box, Zensetter, full of self-care and hair products, along with goodies from local artists, businesses and other small business owners in the United States. She even donates a percentage of proceeds to The Trevor Project.
Sophia has dedicated her time to help any and every one in need. She is someone who looks to make everybody feel like a somebody and empower those who need it most. After spending one hour with her, I feel as though I have taken a different outlook on life. We need more Sophia’s in this world. She is someone who doesn’t put on a face for people. She is unapologetic for who she is. She has used her platform for good to build people up rather than criticize them for their beliefs and actions.
We all need to be spreading light and love, not just during the pandemic, but always. We are all in this world together and there is always strength in numbers. We can all take a page from Sophia’s book and make someone feel loved today. Tell someone that you believe in them. Send that message that you have been thinking about sending to a friend. Give words of encouragement to someone in need. Smile under that damn mask! Be the light in the dark.
Photography by Breanna Kuhlmann
