A CWMBRAN hair stylist has put her dreams of self-employment into motion by setting up a mobile hairdressing business.

Kiaya Watkins of Two Locks. has launched 'Hair by Kiaya' after receiving support from Communities First and Communities for Work programmes, with the 24-year-old launching her business at Cwmbran's Power Station on Friday, January 19.

Miss Watkins said: “The help and support I have received has been very much welcomed and I go forward with great optimism in this venture. Thank you to all concerned.”

Cllr Jessica Powell , the Mayor of Torfaen, said: “I attended several business launches last year, all of which had received tremendous support through Torfaen Communities First employability projects.

"The programme has helped so many Torfaen residents achieve a lifelong dream of starting their own business.

“I would like to wish Kiaya all the best with her mobile business and I would encourage anyone who has business idea to come forward and receive support through one of our employability programmes.”

Richard Murphy, the business development officer for Torfaen council said: “It’s been great working with Kiaya and her family to get this venture off the ground.

"Self-employment in Torfaen has become a tremendous option for people out of work and to see this sector grow and grow is great for the local economy and peoples futures."

In a period of three years, the Communities First business development project has supported 35 business start-ups, with 12 new businesses established in the past year.

The project has recorded an 80 per cent retention rate for businesses that are still active during this time.

For details, call Richard Murphy on 01633 647455 or email richard.murphy@torfaen.gov.uk.