Today we’d like to introduce you to Shawn.
Hi Shawn, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Shawn Saldana, and I’m a proud East Austin native. My mother grew up in Dove Springs, and I was raised in East Austin. Like many long-time Austinites, my family faced displacement and instability. During one of our toughest times, a kind woman from Our Lady of Guadalupe Church took us in and gave us the support we needed. My father was incarcerated for 18 years of my life, and although I faced challenges common in our community, they often go unseen amidst the rapid changes and flashy developments on the East Side.
At 17, I joined the Marine Corps to build a better future for myself. After serving four years, I returned home just as COVID hit. Like many, I struggled. I made poor decisions that resulted in an arrest, but probation gave me the space to reflect and realize I was heading down the wrong path. I decided to change my life.
In 2022, I became a barber—thinking at first that cutting hair was all I would ever do. But I felt called to something bigger: to lead, to own a shop, and to serve my community. I believe that calling was from God. My mission now is to inspire youth and show them that you can make it out, no matter where you begin.
I am an active member of my community and use every resource and connection I have to give back. I’ve organized back-to-school drives, turkey drives, and now a Christmas toy drive. My goal is to spread love and hope to people like me who have witnessed Austin’s transformation, as well as the new Austinites who are now part of our story. For me, it’s all about love, unity, and community.
I believe my journey—from adversity, to service, to transformation, to community leadership—is a story worth sharing. I hope to inspire others who feel overlooked or unsure about their future.
Thank you for considering my story for an interview with Voyage Austin.
Respectfully,
Shawn Saldana
Shawn.saldana96@gmail.com
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No it has not poverty , addiction, mental health , arrest
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My barbershop has become a place where both long-time Austinites and new residents can come together. It’s a space where everyone feels welcome, seen, and valued. I take pride in creating an environment that represents the true spirit of East Austin — community, culture, and connection.
I also use the money I earn to give back as much as possible to the neighborhoods that raised me. Whether it’s supporting local families, sponsoring community events, or helping organize drives throughout the year, I make sure my success feeds directly back into East Austin. In addition, I’m growing into other ventures, such as construction and future business projects, with the goal of creating more opportunities and resources for my community.
How do you define success?
I don’t believe I’m successful I believe that I’m here to help others this is just a tool
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Fadefactoryatx
- Other: https://share.google/cq9gtD98BfOieSpcB
Image Credits
Kicking it atx
Rolling smoke bbq
Chalmers Austin
Bible app
