Abyssinia Beauty School graduate featured for giving back, building career; could you be next?

A recent graduate of Abyssinia Beauty School in Renton is being celebrated for her professional achievements and community service after being featured recently on the front page of the Renton Reporter.

Nakiya McIntyre, a licensed cosmetologist, who completed her training in June 2025, has quickly become known not only for her work behind the chair but also for her volunteer efforts. Most recently, she offered free back-to-school haircuts at the Kent YMCA to help local children start the school year with confidence. 

Along with the opportunity to meet the public, McIntyre was delighted to have the chance to meet NBA legend Shawn Kemp, power forward for the Seattle Supersonics during the 1990’s. As thrilling as that was, it couldn’t match the happy feeling of helping kids return to school with pride in their appearance, no matter what their means. 

“We couldn’t be prouder of Nakiya – she is growing into her role as a talented cosmetologist, community leader, and future entrepreneur,” Abyssinia Beauty School said in a statement. “She represents everything Abyssinia stands for: skill, service, and heart.”

McIntyre’s journey also reflects the school’s mission to provide education and mentorship to students from diverse backgrounds. Abyssinia Beauty School, founded as a nonprofit, aims to reduce financial barriers for single parents, low-income students, and others seeking careers in cosmetology. Their generous scholarship program helps to lift interested students into a promising and stable career. They can even explore the exciting world of entrepreneurship, through Abyssinia franchise opportunities. 

Learn more about enrolling here: https://www.abyssiniabeautyschool.org

Owner and licensed trichologist Miny Tafesse said her goal is to prepare students not just for styling careers, but for long-term professional success.

“This is what we’re building at Abyssinia — not just stylists, but professionals with purpose,” Tafesse said.

The school graduated its first fully sponsored class in June 2025, with students like McIntyre now pursuing careers, entrepreneurship, and franchise opportunities.

Alongside the school, Abyssinia also operates hair and scalp clinics in Renton and Kent that specialize in trichology and hair restoration treatments. They have quickly earned a reputation for restoring confidence for hundreds of satisfied clients. Knowing you look your best, is a clear key to feeling your and most confident. Tafesse is truly gratified when she witnesses the transformation Abyssinia clients experience.

She is excited to share this satisfaction with a new crop of entrepreneurs with her supportive franchise program. Following an intentional discovery process, potential franchisees complete a comprehensive exploration of what it takes to build a successful Beaty clinic carrying the Abyssinia brand.

Learn more here:

https://www.abyssiniabeautyclinic.com/franchise

About Abyssinia

The unique concept and model of Abyssinia Beauty Clinic and School is the product of the passion of their dynamic founder Miny Tafesse. Here she shares what she feels sets her business apart in the competitive field of beauty and cosmetology:

1. My mission – I founded Abyssinia Beauty School as a nonprofit cosmetology school to create opportunities for underserved communities, especially single parents and low-income individuals, to gain professional training without financial barriers.
2. Beyond beauty – In addition to cosmetology, I teach business skills, trichology (hair and scalp health), and personal development so students graduate ready to build sustainable careers and even open their own businesses.
3. Impact so far – Our first graduating class in June 2025 was fully sponsored, and students like Nakiya (whose video testimonial you can watch here) have gone from struggling financially to securing stable careers.
4. The clinic – Alongside the school, I operate a hair loss and scalp health clinic where I help men and women restore their confidence through professional treatments.
5. Franchise opportunity – We’re now building a franchise model to bring Abyssinia Beauty School to more communities across the country, creating both educational and economic impact.
6. Why I do this – My passion comes from my own journey and the belief that with the right training, mentorship, and support, people can completely transform their lives.

Abyssinia Hair and Beauty Clinic brings hair growth solutions to Kent and Renton.

Enrollment for new students at Abyssinia Beauty School is now open. More information is available at www.abyssiniabeautyschool.org.

Kent clinic:

218 First Ave South
Kent, WA 98032

Phone: (253) 813-1700

Website: https://www.abyssiniabeautyclinic.com/kent

Book Now: https://www.abyssiniabeautyclinic.com/services

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