15 October 2018

Step Up & SHINE 2019 has now launched for stylists of all levels to enter and be in with a chance of winning the year-long £2,500 bespoke education and mentoring programme. Entrants just have to complete a short application form (via www.nhf.info/stepupandshine) detailing their hairdressing background and ambitions and record a 60 second video on Instagram (using the hashtag #stepupandshine19) explaining why they would be the perfect person to win this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Step Up & SHINE 

Step Up & SHINE was launched in association with the NHBF and the Fellowship, in honour of industry legend, Christofer Mann, to nurture passionate stylists from the UK who may not have access to quality training. Renowned industry expert, Debbie G will mentor the winner of this incredible scholarship to provide constant support and create a programme of courses designed to enhance the stylist’s career.

2018's winner 

2018’s Step Up & SHINE winner was Nicola Hamm from Escape Hair Lounge in Portsmouth. The enthusiastic stylist began her journey with Debbie G where she learned how to perfect the pixie cut before she expanded her skill set with barber training at Ruffians Barbers. Nicola went on to attend TONI&GUY’S Creative Cutting Course to learn ground-breaking techniques, before attending her final course on bleaching at Not Another Academy.

Don’t think about entering - just do it

Nicola comments: “Winning the Step UP & SHINE Scholarship has changed the outlook I have on my career, given me immense confidence, challenged and motivated me. The fact that you can choose which courses you want to attend is like no other prize in our industry.

“There is no age limit on who can enter, it’s for anyone who wants an opportunity to get this level of training. It’s a really fair chance for someone to boost their skill set. Don’t think about entering - just do it!”

No experience is necessary but the drive and enthusiasm to learn is vital.

Debbie G, Step Up & SHINE mentor comments: “This is such an exciting initiative. Christofer was a huge supporter of grass-roots hairdressing and believed whole-heartedly in the concept of education for all. The Scholarship is open to any stylist or assistant, of any age and any level, anywhere in the UK. No experience is necessary but the drive and enthusiasm to learn is vital.”