ABOUT US

About Us

Lilian A Braiding Institute is where the art of braiding is honored, taught, and passed down with deep respect for culture, heritage, and history. Rooted in tradition and driven by excellence, we equip students with the workforce training, entrepreneurial tools, and personal development needed to turn their talent into sustainable careers.

Our programs teach lifelong skills that students can carry anywhere—to support themselves, uplift their families, and serve their communities. Alongside braiding techniques, we offer education in hygiene, confidence-building, and business ownership—because at Lilian A Braiding Institute, braiding isn’t just a skill. It’s a lifestyle and legacy.

Founders Story

For Lilian Anderson, braiding has always been more than a beauty practice—it’s culture, confidence, survival, and a path to independence. As a hairstylist and instructor with over 30 years of experience, Lilian spent decades helping clients feel beautiful while mentoring others to build their skills. But she also saw how systemic barriers left many talented braiders without formal training, business protection, or legal support.

Determined to change that, Lilian became the lead plaintiff in a landmark case against the Minnesota Board of Cosmetology—with support from the Institute for Justice. Her victory helped pass legislation to exempt braiders from cosmetology licensing laws, opening doors for hundreds of entrepreneurs across the state.

With over 25 years as an advanced instructor—including teaching at Richwater College—Lilian combined her experience in education, business, and beauty supply management to create the Lilian A Braiding Institute. She built what she wished had existed: a space where people could master their craft, launch their own business, and carry forward cultural legacy with pride.

Today, the institute is more than a school. It’s a sanctuary where hands, hearts, and heritage come together—and where everyone, from youth to adults, is empowered to braid their way to a better future.

MISSION

At Lilian A. Braiding Institute, our mission is to empower young adults and adults—especially those seeking alternative entrepreneurial opportunities in braiding—by equipping them with valuable lifelong skills. Through our comprehensive training programs, we aim to foster self-reliance, create economic opportunities, and support personal growth. By combining skill-building with a commitment to community service, we seek to transform lives and inspire positive change.

VISION

We envision a world where every young adult and adult, regardless of background, has access to the tools and support necessary to build a thriving future. Through our innovative programs, we aim to uplift diverse communities, promote compassion, and create a ripple effect of empowerment and opportunity.

PURPOSE

Our purpose is to create transformative opportunities for young adults and adults by teaching a recession-proof trade that fosters financial independence and self-sufficiency. We are dedicated to building a supportive community where individuals can learn, grow, and give back—ultimately changing lives through skill development and compassionate outreach.

Our Board

Lilian A. Anderson, President, Cynthia Towne - Vice President , Kimberly  Swain Simon, Silpa Narayana Matlo-Treasu, Lucienne Nayoh - Secretary, Lee McGrath - Lawyer.

Advisory Board 

Dr. Lori Prutzman Sarageno, Wanda Johnson, Jordan Anderson, Victorine Ambe.