Today we’d like to introduce you to Aissatou Diagne.
Hi Aissatou, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My name is Aissatou Diagne, and I am originally from Senegal, West Africa. I have been passionate about the beauty industry for as long as I can remember. Even back in middle school, I was doing my own hair and helping others with theirs. That passion only grew stronger over the years. Before moving to the US, I worked in a beauty salon, where I gained even more hands-on experience and realized how much I loved making people feel confident through hair.
When I arrived in the US, I taught myself how to do hair extensions, sew wigs, and build a business around what i love. I launched my first business before the pandemic, but like many small businesses, I had to close it during that time.
Still, that didn’t stop me. I’ve since been working to rebuild, rebrand and grow my business with even more purpose. I’m focused on offering quality hair products and empowering others especially Black women to feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. Every step of this journey has been a learning experience, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, entrepreneurship rarely is. One of the biggest challenges was starting over in a new country. Adapting to a different culture, learning how to navigate the business landscape in the US, and building a customer base from scratch all took time and patience.
When I first launched my business, I didn’t have a lot of resources or guidance. I had to learn everything; marketing, branding, e-commerce, customer service on my own. Then the pandemic hit, and like many, I closed. That was a hard moment. I felt discouraged, but deep down, I knew I wasn’t done.
Another challenge has been staying consistent with sales while trying to balance everything else in life. There are moments when I doubt myself, especially when things are slow or when I feel invisible in such a saturated market. But each obstacle taught me something valuable and made me more determined. I’m still on the journey, but every step, smooth or not, has helped shape who I am today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
TouTouD LLC is an online beauty brand focused on high quality hair extensions, and custom-made wigs. Everything I offer is designed to help women, especially Black women, feel confident, stylish, empowered in their everyday lives.
Operating online allows me to reach a wider audience and serve clients whenever they are. I’ve created a digital space where customers can shop conveniently, learn about haircare, and find styles that truly reflect their identity and lifestyle. What sets TouTouD apart is the care and intention behind every product. Every wig and extension are thoughtfully sourced, styled and prepared with the goal of enhancing natural beauty while offering versatility and ease.
I’m most proud of the trust my customers place in me and the sense of confidence they gain from wearing my products. My brand is rooted in authenticity, representation, and love for the culture. ToutouD isn’t just about hair, it’s about self-expression, resilience, and beauty without limits.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me truly happy is dancing. Especially taking African dance classes. It’ s not just a hobby for me; it’s a connection to my culture, my roots, and my spirit. When I am dancing, I feel free, alive, and completely in tune with myself. It’s a powerful form of expression and healing that brings me so much joy, no matter what kind of day I’ve had.
I also find happiness in the work I do, especially when I see how my products help women feel confident and beautiful. When a customer sends me a photo or message saying how much they loved their wig, it fills my heart. It reminds me that what I’m doing matters.
Whether I’m dancing, creating, or uplifting others, I’m happiest when I’m moving with purpose and passion.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://toutoud.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_hairbytou_/
