The Co-Founders
At the heart of the Nail Excellence Awards are two visionary leaders whose passion, expertise, and commitment to the nail industry have helped shape its evolution and continue to inspire its future. We are a group of passionate and experienced professionals with over 25 years in the nail industry, united by a shared vision to elevate excellence within the nail community. With decades of hands-on expertise in nail artistry, education, and business, we have witnessed the incredible growth and transformation of the industry. Together, we aim to inspire, empower, and unite a vibrant community committed to excellence. We are proud to launch the Nail Excellence Awards—a distinguished global platform dedicated to honoring the creativity, skill, and innovation within the nail industry. It celebrates the outstanding achievements of nail professionals, brands, and artists from around the world. By recognizing both emerging talent and seasoned experts, the Nail Excellence Awards showcases the evolution of nail artistry and its impact on beauty and self-expression. Through a series of awards, educational events, and networking opportunities, the Nail Excellence Awards serves as a catalyst for growth, collaboration, and inspiration within the nail community. It’s more than an event—it’s a movement, igniting passion, pushing boundaries, and shaping the future of nail artistry for generations to come!
Selina Payne-Ferebee
Hailing from Baltimore, Maryland`, Selina Payne-Ferebee brings over two decades of experience and a reputation as a respected authority in the nail industry. Since launching her career in 2002, Selina has owned and operated several successful nail salons, earning recognition both as a creative talent and strategic businesswoman.
A natural storyteller and visionary, Selina is the founder and host of the popular Nails Are a Lifestyle podcast, where she travels the globe interviewing luxury nail salon owners, beauty innovators, and emerging nail technicians. Her mission is to motivate, spotlight, and empower the next generation of nail professionals while raising the standards of the industry.
Selina’s impact has garnered national and local media attention, including a live interview on Nail Talk Radio and a feature on FOX 45 News Baltimore’s Business Spotlight. Originally pursuing a degree in fashion design, Selina found her true calling in nails—a career that beautifully blends creativity, community, and purpose. As a devoted mother of two, her dedication is fueled by her “why,” motivating her daily to build a lasting legacy while nurturing her family. She is a passionate advocate for continued education, committed to helping nail professionals evolve, grow, and bring greater value to the marketplace. For Selina, nails are more than beauty—they are a lifestyle, a culture, and a powerful movement.
Tanaya “Nay” Middleton
With nearly 25 years of experience and over 17 years as a salon owner, Tanaya “Nay” Middleton stands as a true trailblazer in the nail industry. Nay has built a thriving three-story salon and operates a salon suite business designed specifically to empower beauty professionals. Through her innovative vision, she has created supportive spaces where nail technicians can build their own brands and grow successful businesses in a success-driven environment.
Beyond her salon ventures, Nay owns a flourishing online nail supply store that serves nail artists nationwide. She is also a proud mother of three and has had the privilege of working with celebrity clients over the years. As a dedicated educator, Nay has led countless trainings, workshops, and classes, including appearances at major national beauty events. Her mission is clear: to elevate the industry through education, mentorship, and community-building—helping the next generation of nail professionals thrive and succeed.