CEO/OWNER
In 2018, Shanay "Topcurl" established Topcurl Beauty Academy and Salon Topcurl, both pioneering institutions in the beauty industry. Hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, Shanay kickstarted her cosmetology journey within the public school system, obtaining her license at just 17. While pursuing her undergraduate degree, she seamlessly balanced her studies with a flourishing salon career.
Elevating her passion, Shanay became a State Certified Cosmetology Instructor and Program Coordinator in Prince George's County, Maryland, mentoring countless students who've gone on to become licensed professionals. Continuously driven by a thirst for knowledge, she earned her Master’s in Secondary Middle & High School Education and became a National Board Certified Teacher, the sole Board Certified Cosmetology Instructor in Maryland, and currently a Doctorate student in Education Administration Leadership.
Shanay's commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom. Her renowned Training By Topcurl State Board Exam Prep sessions have earned her the title of "State Board Guru™", with a trademark pending. Her dedication culminated in the founding of Topcurl Beauty Academy, offering unparalleled education standards in cosmetology.
Expanding horizons, Topcurl Beauty Academy ventured into Alexandria, Virginia, introducing esthetics and beauty instructor programs in 2021. Shanay's influence extends to governance, as she was appointed to the Maryland State Board of Cosmetologists by the governor, advocating for industry advancement.
In 2022, Topcurl established the Topcurl Foundation INC., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing scholarship-based education to underserved communities in cosmetology, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and personal development.
Under Shanay's visionary leadership, Topcurl Beauty Academy not only educates but also empowers. Alumni-turned-staff contribute their expertise to shape the next generation of beauty professionals. Adjacent to the academy, Salon Topcurl partners with Licensed Beauty Professionals, fostering a vibrant community of industry excellence in Bowie, MD.
Experience
Licensed Cosmetologist since 2000
Maryland, District of Columbia, Virginia, & Texas
Licensed Cosmetologist Educator (Senior) since 2005
Maryland
Bachelors of Science
Family and Consumer Sciences concentration Fashion Merchandising 2006
State Instructor Certification since 2006 (APC)
MD, DC & VA
Masters of Science
Secondary Education 2011
National Board Certified Teacher 2019
Certification Area: Career and Technical Education-Early
Adolescence through Young Adulthood-Community Service
*The Only National Board Certified Cosmetology Teacher in Maryland*
Doctorate
Education Administration Leadership 2021
Industry Events
A host of agency jobs to video and photo editorial sets.
Continuous Education Courses
From eyelash techniques, advance hair cutting, hair coloring, makeup, advance nail techniques, infectious control and a host of other beauty educational courses.
