When Shoto Oka, a Japanese hairstylist, first arrived in Vietnam in 2020, he was not just seeking an adventure; he was looking for an opportunity to grow his career Growing up in Mie Prefecture, a quiet area with an aging population, Shoto longed for the fast-paced life and endless opportunities that only a big city could offer. The bustling energy of HCMC (formerly Saigon), with its dynamic urban rhythm, became the ideal setting for his new journey. From apprentice to manager of nine salons in Osaka Before coming to Vietnam, Shoto began his career in beauty in Japan. He started as an apprentice at a small salon at the age of 20 and gradually honed his craft to become a hairstylist. “The early days were tough,” Shoto recalls. “I would clean, assist, and observe, all while striving to improve my skills. The pressure was immense, but I knew mastering the basics was essential.” After years of dedication, Shoto’s hard work paid off. Thirteen years into the industry, he and a partner co-founded a chain of nine Lovest salons in Osaka. Reflecting on this achievement, Shoto says, “Opening a salon is no easy task. Japan has strict regulations regarding space, lighting, […]