We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad's 25 Under 50K contest for 2025, sponsored by SalonCentric.
Here, you will get to know Mahaila Penson (@1800hellyeah), a hairstylist, educator, precision cutter and curl specialist based out of Khana Studio in Portland, OR.
Q&A with Mahaila
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Mahaila Penson (MP): I was dedicated in a Catholic Church in Guam.
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
MP: I was working at Netflix, home from college and decided I wasn’t going to go back to University. Instead I would pursue my passion to work with my hands and be creative. A coworker and friend of mine at the time both quit and went on to enroll at the Aveda Institute in Portland and change our lives. It was the right decision.
BLP: What is your proudest accomplishment/achievement in the industry so far?
MP: My proudest accomplishment has been being trusted by my peers to educate and mentor them to become better stylists, specifically with cutting highly textured hair. The greatest compliment has been to travel to salons all over the country and have students engaged in the material I’m teaching and become better because of it.
BLP: What is your current favorite hair trend?
MP: Embracing your natural in every way! I love getting extra, but the sexiest thing you can be is comfortable in your own skin.
BLP: What is a tip you have for your fellow beauty pros who are looking to grow their following on socials?
MP: Engage in community, and follow people you actually like. Share your life outside of work, and take your followers along for the ride.
BLP: What advice would you give to the younger version of yourself just starting out in the industry, looking back on your whole career?
MP: Remain confident in what you sought out to do, keep your blinders up and know when it’s time to leave. When an environment no longer serves your goals, move on with love and respect.
BLP: What is a tip/technique you’ve learned that’s helped you be more efficient/successful inyour services or business?
MP: Hire a competent and responsive tax professional, get insurance and charge your worth.
BLP: Who is someone you consider a mentor/role model in the industry?
MP: There are so many. Honestly, any woman in this industry who is a single mom and independent business owner — I look up to you and admire you. Being in that position myself, I know how heavy that weight is, and I have so much love for those who share the same journey.
BLP: What is a practice/ritual you have to care for your mental health and set boundaries between your work and personal life?
MP: Sunday is my rest day. I go to church, spend time with my family, get outside and release the pressure of a schedule. You need at least one day like that to remain aligned.
BLP: What do you think needs to change in the industry to help beauty pros continue to grow and thrive?
MP: There needs to be stronger industry standards for long-term financial freedom and planning.
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
MP: Currently, I want to teach classes overseas. I have a strong pull to take my philosophies across the pond. It’s coming soon.
