Wow it seems as though we had similar experience as regarding this, just like you though a boy, I can't help but wander into the shop of one of our next door neighbour to play with the doll(mannequins) hair.
And from my time there, I got to learn to do twisting and other basis style, the woman notices and guides me each time she's changed, although none of mu parents agrees to the idea of me learning such as a male child.
Funny enough I still have some of those skills, and till date I gladly help my niece and sisters with their hair.
Goodness, I was shocked at first, damnnn. You threw me off guard.
I am so sorry about your parents, it's a pity that up till now, our society doesn't support a man doing a job that looks like a lady's own. Only the bold dared to go against society and social media drags them on a daily basis.
I would love to be one of your sisters or nieces ... Lol. You will help me save money 😂😂