Star City Six – Mohammed Tuma

Centrally located at 5530 O Street #1 in Lincoln, Salon MohVi & Spa (www.salonmohvi.com) has a talented and experienced team of professional stylists, an esthetician and massage therapist who share the philosophy of providing extraordinary services at affordable prices. Mohammed Tuma is the co-owner of Salon MohVi & Spa.

How did you get started in the business?

Hairdressing has always been a favorite hobby of mine. I enjoyed working in the industry in my home country, Iraq. After I moved to the US, I decided I would pursue it as my career. I followed my dream, went to school for hair and opened a shop of my own. Later I went into business with my partner, Virginia, and together we created the Salon MohVi & Spa concept. This month we are celebrating our 10th anniversary!

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?

Challenge, to me, is a good thing. I’ve learn so much from challenges that I’ve faced. There have been many, but I’ve overcome them and used them as learning opportunities.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

Owning my own salon and how far we’ve come during our 10 years in business thanks to our brilliant staff and loyal clients.

Tell us a little about your family.

I have been married for 27 years to my wife Eman. We have two boys ages 23 and 20, and our daughter is 11.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?

Anything with my family. We enjoy spending time together. Our favorite thing to do is take the boat out and go fishing together. I’m crazy about fishing.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?

I have a chemistry background that I apply to my business. Understanding the biochemistry of hair and skin helps me identify what is best for my clients in terms of effectiveness. It also tells me a lot about colors and products from a health and safety standpoint, which is critical and factors into the selection of anything that we use or sell here at Salon MohVi & Spa.

What are you the most proud of?

There are two; my family of course, and my business.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

To move to Lincoln, Nebraska and settle down here. I was told it was a family-oriented and peaceful community with nice, genuine people. I’ve been here since 1999. Lincoln is home to me now.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?

Innovator.

If you could have a super power, what would it be?

I already have one, I’m a hairdresser! I have the special ability to make people feel better about themselves on a daily basis.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?

The Center for People in Need. They do very important work here in our community.

What is your favorite movie?

I like animation movies because of my daughter. My most recent favorite is The Secret Life of Pets.

What is your favorite TV show?

I enjoy Sci-Fi; Lost was one of my all-time favorite shows.

What is your favorite local restaurant?

La Paz Mexican Restaurant.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?

Gandhi.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

Phone: (402) 465-5363; Website: www.salonmohvi.com.