JUST a few years ago, Jahmene Douglas was stacking shelves in the north Swindon branch of Asda.
We all know what happened to him after he applied to go on a top TV talent competition.
Stacey Johnson was a shelf-stacker at the same store at the same time as Jahmene, and she similarly had ideas to better herself.
Stacey proved she too has the X factor – unlike Jahmene not in singing, but in hairdressing.
While the mother-of-two from Stratton was perfectly happy working at the supermarket – and is indeed quick to praise Asda for its support – she felt there was more to life than arranging tins on shelves and, having had her two youngsters, decided on the ambitious but risky business of self-employment, and a career as a hairdresser.
She gained the necessary qualifications and set up her own company, Updoo.
And her talent and some helpful word-of-mouth have boosted her business significantly – so much so that she was asked by EastEnders actress Charlie Brooks to style her hair for the British Soap awards.
There is a message here for anyone who wants to better themselves, to pursue their dreams and establish a good life for themselves and their families.
Stacey had the courage to give it a go, but also has enough common sense to understand that there is going to be more to her business than glamorous commissions.
We wish her all the luck for the future.
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