Champions of Hair

The Hairdressing Industry Training Organisation (HITO) recently released an upmarket publication profiling 22 champions of training within the hairdressing industry.

Erica Cumming, HITO’s CEO says “the Champions book is a celebration of an elite group of New Zealanders absolutely committed to apprenticeship training in their salons”. They train the hairstylists who end up working in hair, fashion and beauty and who the industry hopes are most likely to the people styling your hair.

Featuring trainers from hair salons in Whangaparoa, Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua, Napier, New Plymouth, Palmerston North, Kapiti Coast, Wellington, Nelson, Blenheim, Christchurch, Oamaru and Balclutha, the champions show that training is key to raising the professionalism of the industry.

Auckland salon BLAZE features in the edition led by trainers Mana Dave and Kelly Latu (pictured left). Mana says “for a business, apprenticeship training works as you can influence the structure of the training so its relevant to your salon. It allows you to groom them into the stylists you want them to be”.

Further, Ursula Harris from Ursula Harris Hair Design, Nelson says “apprenticeships just work. I know they work. There are so many benefits – the works better, the clients get better service, and staff are more motivated and confident”.

Below: Ursula Harris (Ursula Harris Hair Design), Nelson

“The champions are passionate about apprenticeships and know the benefits it provides to apprentices, salons and clients. Their efforts are helping to ensure that the hairdressing industry are viewed as a respected and professional industry” says Erica Cumming.

Below: Arthur Devine (Arthur Devine Inspired Hair & Makeup), Blenheim

Below: Larissa Sulzberger (Blue Cactus Hairdressing) Wellington

For more information on how to purchase a copy of the HITO Champions Book visit www.hito.org.nz

Cyndi Greep, January 2010

Photos - HITO