In 1986, faced with adversity, Rhodesian-born Karen Jones took the bold step to establish her beauty salon in a little corner of the then Medicine Chest, a local pharmacy in Second Street, Northmead – this was the birth of Kaz’s Corner Beauty Salon.

Unable to speak Afrikaans, doors slammed shut in the newly qualified somatologist’s face and it seemed that her three jobs, working as a waitress, aerobics instructor and shop assistant at the chemist, would be her only form of income, unless she forged her own destiny.

On March 28, Karen and her team of 16 staff members celebrated four decades of perseverance, tenacity and an unbreakable attitude of ‘get up, dress up and show up.”

Set among towering oak trees of Tenth Avenue, Kaz’s Corner Beauty Clinic, Spa & Hair has become synonymous with luxurious pampering.

Despite countless challenges that tested her both physically and emotionally, Karen nurtured and cared for her business, watching as it grew from a humble salon into a one-stop beauty shop, offering manis and pedis, massages, hair treatments and so much more.

“I am a passionate nurturer and carer,” said Karen, while sitting in the tranquil forecourt of her life’s work.

“My mother, Brenda, was the strongest person I knew. Despite her disability, she exuded an infectious determination which inspired me to face every obstacle on life’s journey with similar resolve.”

Raising three daughters, facing the global Covid-19 pandemic, and rebuilding her business from the crippling effects of lengthy lockdown restrictions made Karen more resolute in achieving success rather than throwing in the towel.

“Along with my dedicated staff and a combined 124 years of experience within the ever-changing beauty industry, we aim to not only enhance the beauty of our clients, but also offer them an experience during which they feel valued,” she said.

“Our clients helped us build this business; they were patient when we needed to pick up the pieces, and they celebrated wholeheartedly when we reached our milestone 40th birthday. For that, we are eternally grateful.”

Of her future plans, Karen said she is building a lasting legacy which she will one day pass on to her daughters.

In the immediate future, Kaz’s Corner will feature a buzzing coffee shop for clients and community members to enjoy.

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