Meet Our Future Professionals: How Our Students Are Leading the Way This Fall

At Keune Academy by 124, our students are the heart of our community — the dreamers, the artists, and the future leaders of the beauty industry. Each season brings new creativity and inspiration to our salon floor, and this fall, our students are setting the tone with their passion, dedication, and artistry.

One of those rising stars is Mancel Glaze, a Master Cosmetology student whose journey reflects what it means to be a true Keune professional. From his creative roots to his future ambitions, Mancel’s story embodies the drive and talent that make Keune students stand out.

A Passion Fueled by Creativity and Family Roots

For Mancel, creativity has always been part of his DNA.

“I’ve always been a creative person,” he shared. “I’m a musician, and I love to paint, so expressing myself through art has always come naturally. I also grew up in the salon with my mom, so I’ve been surrounded by the beauty industry for as long as I can remember. Seeing how she made people feel confident and beautiful really inspired me.”

That early exposure to the world of beauty gave Mancel a deep appreciation for both the art and emotion behind hairstyling. Combining his love for creativity with the desire to make others feel good made pursuing a career in beauty a natural choice.

Finding the Perfect Fit at Keune Academy

Choosing the right beauty school can shape a student’s entire career. For Mancel, Keune Academy felt right the moment he walked in.

“I actually toured or at least spoke with five other schools before I chose which school was going to be right for me,” he said. “Hands down, Keune was the one for me the second I walked in. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming.”

Beyond the positive environment, Mancel was drawn to Keune’s stellar reputation for quality education and real-world training.

“I personally knew some previous students,” he explained. “They came out of school knowing way more than the average cosmetology student. People that go to this school really learn the best techniques and get set up for success here — not just how to pass the State Board exam.”

At Keune, students like Mancel gain more than technical skill — they gain confidence, mentorship, and a clear vision for their future.

Discovering a New Passion

Interestingly, Mancel didn’t always plan to work in beauty. Before enrolling at Keune, he had a successful career in sales.

“I actually worked in direct sales and also as a car salesman for years before this,” he shared. “But within the past few years, I started helping my mom and my aunt out at their salons as an assistant, and I grew to love this industry on a whole new level. That hands-on experience really sparked my passion for doing hair.”

That leap of faith led him to Keune Academy, where he’s been channeling his creativity into a new form of art — hair design.

Hands-On Learning That Inspires Confidence

One of Mancel’s favorite parts of his Keune Academy experience has been getting hands-on with real clients and learning through practice.

“Getting to experiment with color and highlighting is so much fun,” he said. “Coming up with formulas with my instructors, getting feedback, and being challenged has really helped me grow. Working with live clients every day is definitely the best part.”

That balance of technical training and client interaction is a cornerstone of Keune’s education philosophy — preparing students not only to pass exams, but to excel in the salon environment from day one.

Mentorship That Makes a Difference

Behind every successful student is a community of mentors. Mancel credits many of his instructors for shaping his growth.

“It’s hard to choose just one person because, honestly, almost everyone has made an impact on my journey,” he said.

“Paige and Lauren really helped me understand color, and Bill taught me a lot about cutting, especially men’s cuts. Marnie has shared so many techniques with me, including the highlighting method that I use now. Alan even helped me understand saving and investing on a new level, which has been so valuable. Ashleigh and Carrie have both helped me refine my cutting and styling skills too.”

At Keune Academy, instructors invest in each student personally, ensuring they graduate ready to enter the industry with confidence, professionalism, and skill.

Master Cosmetology: A Complete Education

Mancel is currently enrolled in the Master Cosmetology program, which provides students with a comprehensive education in all aspects of beauty.

“It really helps you become pretty well-rounded, even if there are some services you don’t necessarily want to offer,” he explained. “I’ve learned everything from cutting and coloring to makeup application and nails.”

This fall, Mancel is particularly excited about mastering more coloring techniques as seasonal trends shift.

“Everyone is going away from the bright blonde and going darker again,” he said. “It’s exciting to learn how to properly do that, so when summer comes around again, they can easily go back to the bright blonde.”

That awareness of seasonal shifts and trend adaptability will serve him well as he builds a loyal client base in the future.

Growing in Skill, Confidence, and Leadership

Since starting at Keune, Mancel has seen significant personal and professional growth.

“I’ve gained a lot more confidence, not just in my work, but in myself,” he said. “Professionally, I’ve learned how to communicate better with clients, manage my time, and really take pride in the details of my craft.”

This fall, Mancel is focused on being a positive influence on the salon floor.

“I just want to be someone who helps out and keeps good, positive energy on the salon floor,” he said. “The other day I was helping a classmate with her first highlight client, and it was really cool to see her get more confident throughout the process.”

That willingness to lead by example shows how Keune students support one another, creating a collaborative learning environment that mirrors a real salon team.

Advice for Future Students

When asked what advice he’d give to new students just starting at Keune Academy, Mancel’s message was clear:

“Really listen to your instructors and take it seriously. Being a hairstylist is so much more than just playing with hair all day — it’s both an art and a science. The more you pay attention and practice, the more everything starts to click.”

He encourages new students to stay curious and ask questions.

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions and soak up as much as you can,” he said. “Everything you learn here really does set you up for success.”

Creative Energy That Never Stops

Mancel finds inspiration everywhere — from online platforms to his daily experiences.

“I get a lot of my inspiration from Pinterest — there are so many cool colors and hairstyles on there,” he said. “And honestly, TikTok has given me tons of ideas too! There are so many talented stylists sharing quick tips and trends — it definitely keeps me inspired to try new things.”

His current favorite trend? Bold, vivid color.

“I love doing vivid colors! I wish more people wanted to rock some crazy colors in their hair,” he laughed. “That’s definitely one of my favorites.”

Building a Future in Beauty

Looking ahead, Mancel has big goals — and he’s ready to work hard to achieve them.

“My goal after graduating is to make hairstyling a lifetime career and hopefully build it into a six-figure-a-year career,” he said. “I’d also love to explore platform styling or even work with runway models someday. I just really want to keep growing and keep challenging myself.”

In five years, he sees himself with a full book of clients, mastering his craft, and thriving in a career he truly loves.

Balancing Creativity and Self-Care

Even with his busy schedule, Mancel knows the importance of balance and relaxation.

“Nothing beats getting home from a long day, cooking dinner, turning on music, and chilling on the couch with a glass of wine,” he said. “That’s my kind of self-care.”

When it comes to current trends, Mancel is embracing the cozy, rich tones of fall.

“Definitely the darker brunette hair and caramel highlights,” he said. “I’m here for it!”

Music, Art, and a Love for Everyday Beauty

While many stylists dream of working with celebrities, Mancel finds fulfillment in something more personal.

“I honestly find fulfillment in the everyday person coming to sit in my chair,” he said. “Celebrities get to feel that way every day. I know that probably sounds boring, but it’s the true me. It would be a dream to have my own brand one day, though!”

And here’s a fun fact that might surprise you — Mancel isn’t just a talented hairstylist; he’s also a musician.

“Music is definitely my number one, all-time passion,” he said. “I’m a vinyl collector, with tons of albums at home that I listen to regularly on my stereo. I’m also the lead singer in a local rock band called Mile from Meadow.”

From behind the salon chair to behind the microphone, Mancel’s creativity knows no bounds.

The Future of Beauty Is Bright

Students like Mancel Glaze are what make Keune Academy of Beauty such a special place. They come with unique stories, passions, and dreams — and through mentorship, hard work, and creativity, they’re building bright futures in the beauty industry.

This fall, Mancel and his classmates are leading the way with innovation, positivity, and artistry that reflects the spirit of Keune.

At Keune Academy of Beauty, we’re proud to nurture the next generation of beauty professionals — artists who see the world not just as it is, but as it can be.

Ready to start your own journey in beauty? Join future professionals like Mancel Glaze and discover how Keune Academy of Beauty can help you turn your creativity into a career.

Contact us today and take the first step toward your future in beauty.