Ugandan businesswoman and beauty entrepreneur Jalia Walda Nassolo is making headlines in the United States after launching what is being called Houston’s largest 24/7 express hair-braiding salon.
The new Jalia Walda Salon, a massive 12,000-square-foot facility, has quickly become a hot topic online — and for good reason.
To meet the overwhelming demand, Jalia hired more than 300 professional braiders, positioning the salon as one of the biggest African-owned beauty establishments in the city. Open around the clock, it aims to serve the diverse and fast-growing African and Black communities in Texas.
The salon is only the latest addition to Jalia’s expanding business empire. She is also the founder of Minah Beauty, a skincare line inspired by her personal struggles with acne and low confidence, and Mulangila Tea, a popular weight-loss tea brand. Her products and wellness message have built her a strong online following, turning her into a respected voice in beauty, health, and entrepreneurship.
From Nakulabye to Houston
Jalia’s story begins in Nakulabye, Kampala, where she grew up as the fifth of nine children. Her education took her through several schools, including Rhema Junior School Nakulabye, Hope Primary School Kawaala, Nurudeen Primary School Kibuli, Bilal Islamic Secondary School Bwaise, Bright Angels on Balintuma Road, Knowledge Centre High School Kawaala, and finally Kampala Secondary School, where she completed Senior Four.
Originally raised in the Muslim faith, Jalia later became a born-again Christian in 2016 through Kakande Ministries.
Her passion for beauty began unexpectedly. While attending a baking academy, a friend introduced her to makeup artistry. She later sharpened her skills through YouTube tutorials, where she also learned how to monetise her craft.
Jalia started by offering free makeup tutorials on Facebook Live, sharing tips in online beauty groups. Her talent quickly attracted clients, and by 2019, she had gained significant attention on social media. With support from her husband, who invested in her growing brand, she expanded her services and influence.
In her quest to perfect her products, Jalia travelled to the United States to study cosmetic formulation. That decision elevated Minah Beauty into a respected skincare brand — and the rest, as they say, is history.
