About Us

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Who we are.

Our founder and lead educator says ‘To anyone thinking about starting their dream career, I see you, and I get it. I’ve been there myself. I know first-hand how overwhelming it can feel to take that leap, to face uncertainty, and to wonder if you’re capable of turning your passion into a real career.

The Manifest Academy is an independent, small training academy built on a passion for creativity, precision, and raising professional standards within the nail industry. Our founder is a dedicated artist and educator, whose mission is to empower individuals at every stage of their journey, whether you’re taking your first steps into the industry or advancing your skills.

We believe exceptional nails begin with exceptional knowledge. That’s why we offer accredited courses, tailored 1:1 training, and optional add-on modules, along with practical workshops available both online and face to face. Each learning experience is built with a deep focus on precision, solid nail theory, and delivering pristine, salon-ready results. Our training is crafted to build confidence, elevate skill, and inspire true artistry in every student.

But we’re more than just training. We’re here to build confidence, nurture talent, and give you that “someone in your corner” support. Our academy is a space where you’re encouraged, guided, and celebrated because your success is our priority.

Founded by Charley Murphy, The Manifest Academy was born from a passion for creativity, empowerment, and education. What started as a personal journey into nail art during lockdown has grown into a thriving academy that helps aspiring nail technicians turn their passion into a sustainable, successful career.
 
Charley began her nail career when Nails By Charley was established in 2020, creating press-on nails during lockdown and quickly progressing through online theory and practical qualifications. While balancing a full-time job and mobile nail appointments, she built a loyal client base and a reputation for detailed, artistic work. By March 2022, she took the leap into full-time self-employment and by January 2024, her vision for The Manifest Academy became reality. 

After qualifying as an educator in 2023, Charley launched the academy to provide high-quality, ABT-accredited training. Since then, she has had the privilege of training and qualifying many talented individuals, watching them grow in skill and confidence. Supporting students beyond the classroom is a core part of the academy’s mission, and one Charley is deeply proud of.

The path isn’t always smooth – there are setbacks, doubts, and moments where giving up feels easier. But with passion, perseverance, and the right support, those fears can be transformed into confidence and growth.

That’s exactly why I created The Manifest Academy, to be the kind of supportive, empowering space I wish I had when I started. A space where you’re not just learning techniques, but building belief in yourself, connecting with others, and gaining the tools to truly thrive in this industry.

You don’t have to do this alone. With the right guidance, a strong foundation, and a community behind you, you can absolutely manifest the future you dream of.

Why The Manifest Academy?

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, our academy is a space where you can feel confident, capable, and creatively fulfilled.

Private 1:1 training

For focused, personalised development

Expertise at your fingertips

Continued support while you qualify

In-salon education events

For those looking to upskill their teams

In-person workshops and art courses

For hands-on learning

Virtual and video tutorials

So learners can train at their own pace, wherever they are

Hear It From Our Students

The heart of The Manifest Academy is our students—and their words speak volumes.