Manuela Harabor starts acting at the age of four, making her debut in Veronica (1973). Her father, Enache Harabor, was a professional in the special effects department, therefore she practically grew-up in the National Film Studios, Bucharest, in between sound stages and her father workshop. During 1987-1991 she studied acting in The Theatre and Film Academy, Bucharest. The role that put her in the spot light was Simina from Padureanca (1987).