She says the atmosphere of a salon is key to its success – and that approach is certainly paying off with her venture, Jollies.

Launched 10 months ago, the unisex studio at Apollo Business Centre in Bridgend has built an excellent clientele, and Jo is delighted with progress.

Jollies was established with a £2000 Business Support Grant provided jointly by Tata Steel subsidiary UKSE and Bridgend County Borough Council.

UKSE has recently agreed to fund the scheme in conjunction with Bridgend Council for a further year.

“I really appreciate the support I have received, which helped with the set-up costs,” she said.

Jo and her staff work hard to create a relaxed atmosphere, and Jollies enjoys a pleasant outlook at Apollo.

“We aim to create a good experience for our clients when they visit. People want to relax and have a break from the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives.

“There is plenty of parking here, which is important to our visitors and helps them to feel relaxed when they arrive.”

“I am very pleased with the way things have gone and the future for the business is looking bright,” she said.

The salon has two qualified stylists working alongside Jo, and offers a full range of services, including special packages for weddings and other special occasions.

Martin Palmer of UKSE said: “It is good to see Jo’s entrepreneurial skills being put to good use and that jobs have been created. As well as this, Jollies is providing a useful service to the local community and we are pleased to be working with Bridgend Council to help make this happen.

“I am also glad that we will be working with the Council for another year supporting local enterprise.”

Councillor Charles Smith, Cabinet Member for Education and Regeneration, said: “It’s great to see that business is booming for Jollies Hair Lounge and that jobs have also been created as a result of the grant provided.

“We are pleased to be working in partnership with UKSE for another year to support local businesses and help make business dreams become a reality in Bridgend County Borough.”

For more information on the grant and how your business can apply, please contact Tracy Mortimer on 01656 815315 or email tracy.mortimer@bridgend.gov.uk.

Photo Caption: Great experience: seated Councillor Charles Smith and Tracy Mortimer Bridgend County Borough Council, Martin Palmer UKSE and Jo Nyafuna.