London-based hair stylist Jayèma has emerged as a central figure in elite sports grooming, providing professional styling for top-tier footballers from England, Brazil, and beyond. Despite her high-profile clientele—including Marcus Rashford, Noni Madueke, and Raphinha—Jayèma maintains a unique position in the industry, often working with world-class athletes while remaining largely detached from the fame associated with professional football.
The Rise of Elite Sports Grooming
Jayèma’s professional trajectory began long before she entered the international sports arena. At 17, she opened her own Afro-Caribbean salon in the Vicarage Field shopping centre in Barking. Her business acumen, developed during her teenage years, eventually caught the attention of professional basketball players in the WNBA. According to Jayèma, it was a social media post by A’ja Wilson that led to an invitation to the Paris Olympics two years ago, where she was introduced to stars including LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Kevin Durant.
Her approach to sports grooming emphasizes trust and confidence. By treating elite athletes like “normal” individuals, she has built a reputation that transcends specific leagues. “They’ve seen my work and they know they can trust me to create a style that’s only going to enhance their game,” Jayèma noted, emphasizing that many athletes are hesitant to experiment with their appearance due to the intense pressure to perform.
Jayèma’s brand name is a deliberate combination of the first two letters of her brother’s, her mother’s, and her first name, reflecting her roots in Plaistow, east London.
Bridging the Gap Between Football and Fashion
Working with Noni Madueke and Marcus Rashford, she tailors her techniques to the individual’s face shape and "aura." For Rashford, who previously had little experience with braiding, the collaboration was a confidence-boosting experience that gained public attention after he scored following her styling sessions.
While some fans and media outlets focus on the spectacle of the tournament, Jayèma’s work highlights the human side of the athletes. Her interactions with the family of Lamine Yamal, for instance, demonstrate a level of personal connection that often goes unnoticed in the context of global sports media coverage.
Professional Boundaries and Future Trends
Jayèma’s schedule—which involves frequent travel between London and Los Angeles—reflects the global nature of modern elite sports.
However, she remains selective about her commitments. When approached by the Ghana squad, she declined due to existing obligations, demonstrating a rigid professional standard. As for potential future clients like Erling Haaland, Jayèma acknowledges the possibility of future collaborations, noting that his hair texture and history with braiding make him a candidate for her services, provided the timing aligns with her availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Jayèma?
Jayèma, whose legal name is May Jika, is a London-based hair stylist and groomer who specializes in braiding and styling for elite athletes across football and basketball. - Which athletes has she worked with?
Her client list includes Marcus Rashford, Noni Madueke, Raphinha, and several WNBA stars, including A’ja Wilson. - Does she follow professional football?
Jayèma has stated she is not deeply involved in football culture, only recently learning about prominent players like Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland through her clients.
Maintaining a strong personal brand while operating in high-pressure environments requires both technical skill and a reliable, professional demeanor. Jayèma’s success underscores the value of discretion and adaptability when working with high-profile clients.
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