Antonio Rizzo Honoured With MBE In New Year Honours List 2024 

The Alternative Hair Show founder and London-based hairdresser Antonio (Tony) Rizzo has been awarded an MBE for his exceptional charitable contributions to leukemia research and support for children battling the disease.

by MADDI | INDUSTRY NEWS

Over the past 40 years, Tony has raised more than £15 million for leukemia and blood cancer charities, a mission inspired by a deeply personal loss. After his first-born son, Valentino, passed away from leukemia in 1983, Tony pledged to help save other children from the disease. Alongside his wife Maggie, Tony called on the hairdressing community to join an ambitious new charity initiative – the Alternative Hair Show. 

The inaugural show debuted at London’s Camden Palace in October 1983, raising £7,500 for Leukemia & Lymphoma Research (now Blood Cancer UK). This innovative fusion of creativity and compassion quickly gained momentum, becoming an annual fixture and one of the most anticipated events in the global hairdressing calendar. Today, the Alternative Hair Show unites hair creatives from around the world, showcasing extraordinary talent while raising vital funds for leukemia research. 

The show’s impact extends beyond the stage. Funds from ticket sales and in-event appeals have also provided families with children undergoing treatment for leukemia much-needed respite. From day trips to London Zoo and Legoland to weekend getaways at Disneyland Paris, these experiences offer families joy and relief during challenging times. Each child and parent also receives a goodie bag filled with thoughtful gifts donated by supporters in the hairdressing industry. 

Tony Rizzo’s MBE is a testament to his unwavering dedication to making a difference. The entire hairdressing community celebrates this well-deserved recognition of his remarkable legacy.