Ten Toes Down: Sylkiana

Cosmetologist, massage therapist, dancer, model, and creative director, Sylkiana

Luscious & LETHAL- Sylkiana totes a triple threat you can’t forget.

Meet Ashira “Sylkiana” Ransom. A local powerhouse princess on a stage, set, or salon floor, give her the shot and say no more! This multi-faceted beauty queen is here to make her mark in the art world of exotic dance, modeling, and updos. Tap into our convo about the humble beginnings and winnings of one of STL’s hottest dolls.

“I started doing hair in middle school. I didn’t want my mom doing my hair anymore, so I took the initiative.”, laughs the 21 yr. old cosmetologist. Ashira Ransom, aka “Sylkiana” had the young mindset of an artist and entrepreneur since her acne and adolescent years. “I looked at one YouTube video, and it kind of just shot off from there.” From self-teaching her first passion, Sylkiana set the foundation for her star power and black girl magic to take root.

During her school days, the St. Charles High grad cultivated a stable clientele for hairstyling and treatments. “I started my own business basically.”, says Ransom. “People from school, friends and family started hitting me up to get their hair done. It just went from there.” After high school, she established herself and branded her hairdresser business as “Sylki’s Touch”. The artist specializes in natural hairstyles, such as braids, extensions, locs, and twists. “I also use herbs and natural remedies in my hair treatments.”, she adds. As the ABC Barber College student became stable in her craft, she knew that she wanted to venture into other artistry as well.

In 2023, the multi-disciplinary artist began modeling after being approached by a photographer while in barber school. “When I was in high school, I always wanted to model but I felt like I didn’t have the resources and connections.”, explains Sylki. “I had that mindset of “I want to do it all.” I learned though that as a creative, just because you want to do all of these things doesn’t mean you should. It’s about timing.”

After her first photoshoot, Sylki’s bookings began stacking like dominoes. “Not even a full two weeks after that, someone hit me up to do some work. I was like “yeah!” As the 5’5″ model’s portfolio grew, so did her desire to explore more of her talents. Sylkiana is also a dancer and massage therapist. “I still haven’t gotten to do all of what I want to do, there’s still more stuff on the way.”

Sylkiana is currently focusing on expanding her clientele and modeling portfolio. “I haven’t done any runways yet, but that’s definitely on the list. I definitely would love to travel and model in different countries. I won’t set my expectations too high though. It’s all about balance.” Excited to see what’s next for this humble and hardworking stellar. The green light is a go for the girl with the GLOW!