My name is Selina McManus, I am an indigenous mother; community activist, educator, salon owner, and professional hairstylist. i have over 14 years of experience in the industry, but my real hustle came from 18 years of motherhood. i was born and raised in the san francisco bay area, the east bay raised me. i’m second generation off the rez and the priceless lessons my late grandmother taught me deeply impacted my drive & will to create. Despite every obstacle i’ve faced in life, I know my ancestors are guiding me to a better path.
in 2010, i became a licensed cosmetologist after searching for stability for my young son. My career has seen many paths; commission, booth rent, private suite ownership, and now as a full salon owner. this career has allowed me to meet many amazing people. the exchanges, whether through clients, peers, or mentors.. have been incredibly influential to my growth as a person, business owner and artist. Story telling through hair has become a staple in my life. whether it be on set, with my amazing clients behind the chair, teaching other professionals through education, or through collaborations with talented friends.
Staying true to myself and my values has aligned me with incredible opportunities. it has also protected me from spaces that do not value me or my craft. i believe in decolonizing hair. unlearning what expectations colonization set on black & brown folks is the work i love to do. taking care of natural hair and giving people the hair color of their dreams is healing.
may we heal from the colonized harm our ancestors weren’t able to.
