Maneuver Men’s Grooming offers a range of premium grooming products, from nourishing beard oils to invigorating face cleansers, each crafted with natural ingredients and meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the founders’ dedication to excellence and the legacy of black-owned businesses. This mother and son team created Maneuver not just as a grooming line but as proof of the power of self-care in building confidence and mental well-being, empowering men to feel ready to face the world.
Udrea Russell: My mother, Sharon, grew up in Kingston, Jamaica in a household where money was always tight. Living in one of the most dangerous areas in Jamaica, she experienced poverty firsthand, but she never let it define her. Despite the odds, she graduated from high school and university, breaking barriers as a young Black woman in a society that often overlooked her. Her stories about her struggles and triumphs inspired me deeply. Witnessing her determination and ability to navigate through adversity filled me with confidence. She taught me that entrepreneurship, much like her journey, is fraught with uncertainties, but it’s about taking risks and believing in yourself.
What motivated you to create a grooming solution for razor bumps, and how did that initial problem-solving lead to Maneuver Men’s Grooming?
Udrea Russell: My motivation to create a grooming solution for razor bumps stemmed from my personal experiences and the challenges I faced as a young Black man dealing with this common issue. Razor bumps, caused by our curly hair texture, can be especially problematic as they often lead to ingrown hairs. This was particularly difficult for me during my training and career as a firefighter, where a clean-shaven look was necessary for a proper fit with the firefighter mask. The discomfort and dissatisfaction with my appearance when clean-shaven, combined with the pain of the bumps, made me realize that there weren’t many effective solutions tailored specifically for men of color with similar hair and skin concerns. This personal struggle inspired me to keep my beard and focus on creating products that address these unique challenges. It led to the foundation of Maneuver Men’s Grooming, a brand dedicated to providing grooming solutions that cater to the specific needs of men of color. Our mission is to help men like myself feel confident and comfortable in their skin, whether they’re clean-shaven or sporting a beard.
How has your mother-son relationship influenced the business, and what unique strengths do each of you bring to Maneuver Men’s Grooming?
Udrea Russell: Our mother-son relationship has been both a unique strength and a learning experience for Maneuver Men’s Grooming. My mother has always been a guiding force in my life. However, transitioning into a professional partnership where I lead and make crucial decisions was a significant shift for us. This dynamic required us to build a new level of trust and communication. She has been instrumental in ensuring that I develop the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed. I bring a fresh perspective and passion for addressing the unique grooming needs of men of color, driven by my personal experiences. Our combined strengths create a balanced partnership where her experience and my vision work together to guide the business forward.
How important is it for you to represent and empower the Black community through your grooming line, and what message do you hope to send to other aspiring Black entrepreneurs?
Udrea Russell: Representing and empowering the Black community through my grooming line is significant to me. I believe that every product we create is not just about personal care; it’s a way to celebrate our culture, our history, and our unique beauty. My goal is to provide high-quality products that resonate with our community while also fostering a sense of pride in who we are. I hope to send a powerful message to other aspiring Black entrepreneurs: your voice matters, and your dreams are valid. There’s strength in our stories, and we can create businesses that reflect our experiences and values. By sharing my journey and the challenges I’ve faced, I want to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations fearlessly. Together, we can uplift each other, break down barriers, and create a legacy that future generations can be proud of. I want every young Black person out there to know that they can achieve their dreams and make a significant impact in their communities.
How do you believe personal grooming and self-care contribute to mental well-being and confidence, particularly for men?
Udrea Russell: I believe that personal grooming and self-care play a crucial role in contributing to mental well-being and confidence, especially for men. Looking good and feeling good are deeply interconnected, and when men take care of their appearance, it often leads to a positive self-image and increased confidence. This isn’t just about vanity; it’s about empowering individuals to feel their best and face the world with assurance. For men, particularly those in the Black community, grooming can be a form of self-expression and a way to take control of one’s appearance, which can sometimes feel limited by societal expectations and stereotypes. Proper grooming helps to alleviate common issues like razor bumps, ingrown hairs, and skin irritation, which can be painful and affect one’s self-esteem. When men see positive changes in their skin and appearance, it boosts their confidence and overall mental well-being. But it doesn’t stop at grooming products alone. We also aim to empower the men and women in our community by providing them with knowledge on proper self-care practices, including lifestyle changes that contribute to a healthier and more confident self.
What are your future aspirations for Maneuver Men’s Grooming, and how do you plan to expand and innovate within the men’s grooming industry?
Udrea Russell: My future aspirations for Maneuver Men’s Grooming extend far beyond just providing grooming products. We aim to create a safe space for men to gather, connect, and express themselves authentically. This vision includes building a community where young men can find mentors, forge lasting friendships, and share valuable resources. We want to curate experiences that empower and educate both men and women within our community. This could involve workshops, seminars, and events that focus on grooming, self-care, and personal development, helping individuals build confidence and learn skills that will serve them in all areas of life. In terms of expansion and innovation within the men’s grooming industry, we are committed to continuously evolving our product offerings and exploring new ingredients and technologies that align with our mission. We plan to incorporate more sustainable practices and possibly expand our line to cater to diverse needs and preferences. Additionally, we want to leverage digital platforms to foster our community, creating online spaces for discussion, education, and sharing experiences. Ultimately, at Maneuver, we strive not just to enhance grooming routines but to redefine what it means to be a modern man. We believe that grooming is about more than just looking good; it’s about feeling confident and supported in a space where everyone is uplifted.
How can our readers connect?
Sharon & Udrea Russell:
Photo Credit: Sharon & Udrea Russell
Add Comment