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Crafting A Career Through Content

Crafting A Career Through Content

Crafting A Career Through Content

How Wella’s Passionista programme helped Michael Gray turn creativity into a thriving freelance career

by CAITLYN | EXPLORE

For Michael Gray, a career in hairdressing was never just about working behind the chair. His journey began in a salon but quickly took a turn when he moved to London to pursue modelling. There, he started creating content—long before Instagram became a hairstylist’s portfolio.

“I wanted to create the kind of looks I wasn’t seeing,” Michael explains. “Pinterest was huge at the time, but I wanted to showcase my own take on styling. So, I started collaborating with models I met through my work.” That instinct to innovate led him to work with influencers, and before he knew it, his skills were in demand on red carpets and high-profile events.

Michael’s breakthrough came when Wella Professionals discovered his work through social media. “I was constantly tagging Wella in my content,” he recalls. “Freelancing wasn’t as big back then—most stylists were based in salons or worked on editorial shoots. But Wella saw the potential in my session styling and invited me to be part of the Passionistas programme.”

Being a Wella Passionista has opened doors beyond styling. From running masterclasses in London, Manchester and Dublin to educating in Greece, Michael has found a passion for mentoring. “Education has been one of the biggest highlights of my career. I love sharing my skills with the next generation, whether they’re just starting out or refining their craft.”

As a freelancer, Michael values the sense of belonging that comes with being part of a network like the Wella Passionistas. “When you’re freelance, you’re often working solo with make-up artists or photographers, not other hairdressers. So, having a support system through Wella—whether at events or even just in a WhatsApp group—is invaluable.”

That support has extended to some of his most exciting projects, including backstage styling at TrendVision Awards and working with celebrity clients like Laura Whitmore. “I had wanted to style her hair for years,” he says. “She’s always open to trying something different, and working with her through Wella was an amazing opportunity.”

Michael attributes much of his success to social media. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without it,” he admits. “Tagging brands, creating content and staying consistent has allowed me to grow organically.”

His strategy? Keeping it fresh. “If I post a sleek look today, I’ll post something with more texture next time. If I’m getting bored, then my audience probably is too. It’s about variety, but also staying true to my aesthetic.”

For stylists looking to carve their own path, Michael’s advice is: “Find your niche. Experiment with recreating runway looks, reach out to talent agencies, assist at Fashion Week—try everything and see what resonates. If it’s not for you, at least you’ve given it a go.”

Michael’s journey from self-taught content creator to international educator and red-carpet stylist proves that passion, paired with strategic visibility, can lead to endless possibilities. And with Wella by his side, he’s just getting started.

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From Passion to Possibilities

From Passion to Possibilities

From Passion to Possibilities

How Wella’s Passionistas programme inspires, educates and elevates freelancer, Heather Robertson

by CAITLYN | EXPLORE

For Heather, hairdressing has always been more than a job – it’s her greatest passion. With over 20 years working in the industry and eight as a freelancer, Heather has built a career around bridal styling, luxury home salon services and education. But going solo wasn’t just about independence; it was about embracing opportunities that aligned with her love for learning, creating, and inspiring others. 

“I love being my own boss,” she reflects. “I laugh at myself because I say I have the freedom to come and go as I please, but when you’re self-employed, you tend to work way more than you ever would if you were employed. Still, the passion is there because you’re working for your own brand.” 

This passion for hairdressing is what keeps Heather motivated. “I’ve always believed in making people feel like the best version of themselves,” she shares. “Whether it’s a bride on her wedding day or a client in my salon, that’s what drives me.” 

Passion Turned Passionista  

Her journey has been enriched by the Wella Passionistas programme, which she joined during lockdown and credits as a source of inspiration and growth. “I think it just became really obvious how much I love Wella as a company and how much I love sharing knowledge with other hairdressers,” Heather explains.  

Her journey into the Passionistas began during lockdown when she went live three times a week, teaching techniques and engaging with fellow stylists. Through these sessions, her expertise and enthusiasm caught Wella’s attention. “I think they just saw how passionate I am about hairdressing and about continuously learning and sharing.” 

“It’s great to be amongst like-minded people,” Heather says. “And naturally, the kind of guidance that Wella gives us as Passionistas – like being the first people to know about new products and innovations – is invaluable. We consistently get updates on what’s trending and how best to showcase our work, which keeps us inspired.” 

“Having the Passionistas group is like a side turn on the road,” she explains. “You might plan to do something with your client, then a box arrives filled with new and exciting products, techniques and ideas. It keeps you inspired.” 

For example, Wella’s new ‘Glass Hair’ technique has been a game-changer for Heather’s bridal clients. “It’s an additional service on top of a colour appointment, and it’s perfect for making their hair look flawless in the lead-up to their wedding. The Wella Professionals products allow me to refine my skills while introducing something new to my clients.” 

Beyond the products, content days and hands-on education have been another major highlight of the initiative. “It’s incredible to be invited to these shoots where we create beautiful images, work with models and really showcase our artistry. For freelancers who don’t have the backing of a big salon, that kind of exposure is amazing.” 

Social Media and Personal Brand 

Social media didn’t just help Heather land a spot in the Passionistas programme, it remains a core part of how she educates and inspires others. 

“The key is to provide value,” she says. “It’s not enough to just post what you’re doing in the salon. If you can share something that helps other stylists – whether it’s a technique, a product review or an insight – that’s what really resonates.” 

Heather uses platforms like Instagram to showcase her work, share tips and build her brand. It’s also where she finds inspiration, saving posts and videos from other educators and hairdressers. “I have a folder of everything that sparks ideas. It’s a mix of things Wella sends through and trends I see online. It helps me stay ahead of the game.” 

Freelancing offers freedom, but Heather emphasises the importance of structure and self-care. “One of the best pieces of advice I ever heard is to take time out to work on your business, not just in it,” she says. “As a freelancer, you’re both the boss and the employee. It’s easy to say yes to everything, but you need to take care of yourself too.” 

 

For Heather, being part of the Wella Passionistas has been a career-defining experience. “It’s not just about being the first to try new products, it’s about being part of something bigger,” she says. “You’re constantly learning, you’re supported by Wella, and you’re part of a community that pushes you to grow.” 

Looking ahead, Heather has no plans of slowing down. She’s continuing to build her education platform, expand her bridal styling expertise and explore new trends through the Wella Passionistas programme. “You could do this job for a million years and still never know everything,” she says. “There’s always something new to learn – and that’s what makes it so exciting.” 

Could You Make It On To The 2025 Schwarzkopf Professional Young Artistic Team?

Could You Make It On To The 2025 Schwarzkopf Professional Young Artistic Team?

Could You Make It On To The 2025 Schwarzkopf Professional Young Artistic Team?

Hunt is on for UK and Irish stylists aged under 26

by AMANDA | INDUSTRY NEWS

2024 Schwarzkopf Professional Young Artistic Team

Are you a young talent looking to be hot housed? You might just be in luck! Schwarzkopf Professional is searching for stars of tomorrow to join its 2025 Young Artistic Team.

The programme offers education and talent development, mentoring and shaping the careers of rising stars within the UK and Ireland. The opportunity is open to stylists aged under 26 to train, grow and shine under the guidance of some of its big-name ambassadors.

Those selected for the 2025 Young Artistic Team will receive:

A minimum of 10 days of top-quality training with industry experts
A dedicated photographic session to showcase their creative vision

Hands-on experience to shape their careers and open doors to future opportunities

This Is How You Enter:

Create a mood board! This must reflect who you are as a creative, showing your inspirations and the kind of work you aspire to create.

Film a short video! This is an introduction to yourself! Share your story, your passions and your vision as the person behind the scissors – show judges what makes you unique.

 Submit your mood board photo and video by midnight on Sunday 9 February via this link.

Urban Hideaway Revealed As Fellowship’s Newest Centre Of Excellence

Urban Hideaway Revealed As Fellowship’s Newest Centre Of Excellence

Urban Hideaway Revealed As Fellowship’s Newest Centre Of Excellence

The creative hub in Nottingham becomes the fourth centre to host events and education

by AMANDA | INFORM

Nottingham’s Urban Hideaway is the latest Centre of Excellence for The Fellowship for British Hairdressing. The latest location is a creative hub with multifunctional spaces suited to hair and beauty professionals, educators, brands and businesses across four floors.

The collaboration will see Urban Hideaway become one of the Fellowship’s most innovative spaces for hosting education and training days for member hairdressers and barbers.

The new partnership was celebrated an open evening event which included demonstrationsfrom the Fellowship’s vice president and Project Extend leader, Michelle Griffin and Project Extend support, Marlene Lamont. Other demos were hosted by James Parr and Michael Damiano from the Wahl Artistic Team and the team from Design Essentials, which showcased textured hair education.

Simon Shaw, Collette Osborne, Ashleigh Hodges and Michelle Griffin

Urban Hideaway chief executive, Collette Osborne, said: “The Centre of Excellence project will bring us closer to the heart of the hairdressing and barbering industry, which in turn allows us to provide more creative opportunities and support for those who use our space.”

Other Fellowship Centres of Excellence include West Suffolk College, the WestrowAcademy in Leeds and the Sassoon Academy in central London.

The Fellowship’s Centre of Excellence initiative delivers a mix of inspiration and education to members, including student membership and a Finishing School at West Suffolk College to help graduates stand apart when looking for their jobs. 

Wanted – New L’Oreal Professionnel ID Artists For 2025

Wanted – New L’Oreal Professionnel ID Artists For 2025

Wanted – New L’Oréal Professionnel ID Artists For 2025

The iconic mentorship and development programme is open for applications to join the next squad

by AMANDA | INDUSTRY NEWS

ID Artists

Marlon Hawkins, Nancy Stripe and Abigail Butler – just a few of the artists that have been part of the L’Oréal Professionnel ID Artist mentorship and development programme and seen their careers bloom. And now, the ID Artist is looking for its next group of upcoming talents… 

If you want 2025 to deliver new opportunities, skills and experiences, the L’Oréal Professionnel ID Artists programme might be what you’re looking for. This two-year mentorship and development programme aims to foster hairdressing talent, no matter what stage they’ve reached in their career, and applications are now open. You have until 16 January to submit your audition video. Here’s what you need to do: 

How To Create Your Audition Video 

  • Prepare a complete total look featuring a model based on something that inspires you.  
  • Present this look with a five-minute landscape video and explain how you achieved the look, including the techniques and products used.  
  • Make sure you talk throughout your video and record on a plain background.  
  • The video must involve cutting, styling or colour results, or a combination, using only L’Oréal Professionnel styling and/or colouring products. It should be based on the skill areas you want to profile to the judges.  

From all the video entries, a judging panel will choose 36 entrants to go through to the second round. Here, they’ll take part in a 10-minute virtual interview with judges to talk the technical process used to create their look, as well as their inspirations and creative thought process. The lucky ones will join the programme in March, and it will run until December 2026. 

For all the details, visit www.lorealaccess.com