PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) – Forty years ago, Janeth Roldan left Colombia in search of opportunity and a better life for her mother.
Not long after arriving in the U.S., she discovered a passion for barbering. Chasing her American dream, Roldan worked in several cities before settling in Panama City with her two daughters. There, she noticed a need for a Hispanic-owned salon and barber shop — and decided to fill it.
Since opening Latinos Salon and Barber Shop on West 18th Street, Roldan has built a thriving business and a loyal Hispanic clientele she now calls family.
“That’s how I found my Hispanic family, because to me they are my family,” Roldan said. “I may be from Colombia, but I have the heart of a Mexican, Honduran — from everywhere. Those are my people.”
The salon, open Wednesday through Monday, offers a wide range of services and serves as a cultural hub for the community.
As Hispanic Heritage Month wraps up Oct. 15, Roldan says the celebration reflects the hard work and unity of the Hispanic community.
“It’s important because it’s an opportunity to get to know each culture and country,” she said. “We are part of what makes this country progress and prosper. We are a blessing — we help the economy so much.”
Roldan has instilled in her daughters the importance of preserving their roots, often taking them back to Colombia to experience their heritage firsthand.
As a single mother and business owner, she’s faced — and overcome — countless challenges.
“I told myself God has better things for me,” Roldan said. “He gave me this salon 17 years ago. I had to go through so much to see the light. Nothing is impossible.”
After decades of hard work, Roldan says she’s achieved what she always dreamed of — an opportunity — and hopes others like her will find the same.
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