“I have a gifted skill. I did not get training from anywhere but I knew I was meant to do this job,” affirms the resolute 23-year-old proprietor of YAIMN Barber in Tuensang Town, Imlong Chaba Chang.

The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) graduate acknowledges that his dream of opening a barbershop would never have seen daylight if not for his family’s support, his father in particular. An employee of the Department of Police, Chaba’s father took a leap of faith on his son instead of trying to convince him to pursue a more ‘secure’ career.

The son acknowledges that his father’s constant belief gave him the motivation to embark on this journey. The encouragement, approval and support from his family gave Chaba all ingredients needed to make a dream come true.

Sharing his journey with great zeal, Imlong Chaba Chang declares that all he aims to do is to work hard not to prove anything to anyone but to fulfil his own aspirations.

Chaba completed his high school education from Mewi Higher Secondary School, Kohima and higher secondary from Mount Hermon Higher Secondary School, Kohima. After passing the 12th standard, he was introduced to entrepreneurship by YouthNet which motivated him to pursue BBA. Eventually, he secured the degree from St Joseph’s College Jakhama (Autonomous).

The young man recalls that he had always been fascinated by the varieties of hairstyles and had been curious about hair dressing and hairstyles. Chaba reveals that he closely studied the prospects of opening a barbershop in Tuensang before acting impulsively on his business idea. He became determined to offer customers their desired look with latest hairstyles and cuts and YAIMN BARBER was born in 2022.

Chaba picked the name ‘YAIMN’ for his salon by taking out the first letters from the names of his family members.

“Everyone needs to start somewhere. We cannot accumulate huge some of money and then only think about starting something. I had a very small capital and from scratch I am where I am today,” Imlong Chaba expresses.

Chaba’s vision of becoming a hairdresser never shook, he had his vision engraved and is now fulfilling what his heart desires. He shares his accommodation with a friend in Tuensang and supports his parents in every little way.

The young entrepreneur says that he believes in team work and has two employees working with him. He states that he aims to extend his business in the future and open new outlets and employ youths under YAIMN. Chaba is confident that despite the constant struggle, the fruits of his labour will surely be good.

Talking about the struggles and hardships he endures, Chaba notes that besides tough competition with the rest of the business establishments, finding a good location and the huge amount of security deposit for rental commercial spaces becomes a hurdle for youth wanting to start their own businesses.

Imlong Chaba Chang hopes to change society’s perspective and let his friends and the youth know that there is always a plan for everyone and that one should believe in oneself.