On Tuesday April 21st Sebastian Professional unveiled its brand new look at an exclusive party in Waterloo. Part of a global brand re-invention and led by cutting edge hair stylists, the new brand ethos is themed around disruption and ‘what’s next’ so the launch was designed to bring this to life.

Australia’s hairdressing ‘who’s who’ gathered last night at the spectacular Sydney Opera House to celebrate and award our very best. Glitz and glamour mixed with boundless enthusiasm to produce a raucous night that often had the hosts pleading for calm. Regardless, the hair industries version of the ‘Oscars’ complete with Red Carpet of course, was a resounding success for the Australian Hair Congress.
And the winners are…

Vass Eliadis vibrates with all things hairdressing. Such enthusiasm for our industry after 27 years and armfuls of awards isn’t too suprising. Given that the list of AHFA finalists have this same trait – they all LOVE hairdressing. Vass is of course one of Australia’s very best so don’t be surprised at the overwhelming energy and shear love that he expresses in this interview.

Frank Apostolopoulos is a powerhouse hairdresser with the demeanor of a real gentleman. Universally regarded as one of the top players in Australian hairstyling, Frank Ap has once again made giant steps forward with this AHFA collection.

Anybody who has meet or spoken to Emiliano Vitale will tell you that he is a an immensely passionate ambassador for the Hairdressing Industry. Rightly regarded as an industry leader in all facets Emiliano continues to impress with his own artistic work as well as his team’s. Listen to his interview and you to will be swept up in E Salon’s leaders bubbling energy.

I never wanted to be a hairdresser and I had absolutely no idea when it came to hair. A friend of mine, who was an apprentice, suggested I become a 1st year but I dismissed this idea. The very next day I helped my mum put through an at-home hair colouring emergency, where I was forced to do her colour at home. To my surprise it turned out amazingly well!

I began hairdressing at age 19 after completing my HSC. Originally, I tried university, but quickly realized it wasn’t for me and left very early on I had always had an interest in the hair/fashion industry. My mum told me to apply for a 1st year apprenticeship advertised in the local paper. I was offered the position and, 5 years later, I’m still hairdressing

The AHFA Cocktail Party will be held in the glamorous Opera Point Marquee on the picturesque Sydney Harbour while the gala dinner awards presentation is happening inside the Opera House.

Born in England, now residing in Australia, Matthew has quickly established a name as one of the countries finest up-and-coming artists.His career began like many others alike, in a small town with a void of a big city’s stresses. Nurtured by a loving team, he was able to relocate to Australia to pursue his career and obsession with photographic hair.

Australian Hairdresser of the Year is the most coveted of the awards and is judged by a panel of independent industry experts. The final decision is based on a number of contributing factors ranging from the entrant’s photographic collection to their integrity, peer recognition, participation in industry activities, education and contribution to the advancement of the industry.