Selecting the best

Raising the levels of proficiency in the industry with each instalment, the 14th annual National Awards of the Sri Lanka Association of Hairdressers and Beauticians (SLAHAB) took place at Galadari Hotel in Colombo.

Setting up a competitive platform judged according to the highest standards, the SLAHAB National Awards opened up its doors to all, to gain exposure and training in line with international benchmarks as well as obtain guidance from the masters of the trade. “We want the Sri Lankan hairdressers and beauticians to match their performance to international levels, and this year we improved our judging criteria,” said Johann Peiris, Chairman of the Panel of Judges.

The two-day competition saw participants creating stunning art in 12 hair and beauty related areas that were judged by panels consisting of the best and most renowned professionals in each respective category. A special feature of the 2011 session was the Colour Trophy sponsored by L’Oreal Sri Lanka that was open to all those skilled in hair colour.

Over 300 competitors and 3000 spectators participated in the 14th annual SLAHAB National Awards 2011, which was constantly animated with fun filled and educational activities galore. From trade stalls selling hair, beauty and fashion related goods, to audience competitions, hair and beauty related demonstrations and raffle draws. The day pass priced at Rs. 150 also doubled as the raffle token for each visitor and the lucky winner received the grand prize of a return air ticket to Chennai. A special kiosk manned by representatives of the Institute of Hairdressers and Beauticians (IHB) was open to visitors to gain information on the internationally recognised IHB qualifications available for those who wish to enhance their opportunities in the industry.

The final day ended with a gala hair and fashion show parading the competitor’s achievements of the two days. It was followed by the awards ceremony where gold, silver and bronze winners were gifted prize money, and trophies.

A resounding success, the 14th annual SLAHAB National Awards was a stage uniting the whole beauty industry. It was a realm where the amateurs rubbed shoulders with the country’s best expertise and where the old and young from regions across Sri Lanka competed on an equal stage regardless of race or ethnicity, qualifications and experience.

Savio Pereira, the celebrity hair stylist from Mumbai who styles the hair of Bollywood stars, Indian cricketers and business personalities graced the event as the Guest of Honour.

The 2011 National Awards also provided training and admission for any participants interested in entering two of the most coveted tournaments in the world for hairdressers and beauticians; the Organisation Mondiale Coiffure (OMC) Championship to be held in Milan and the OMC Asia Cup in Okinawa this year. The other proud partners of the event were Renew Hair Colour, Earth Essence, Glamours, Raja Jewellers, Watsons, L.A. Girl, L’Oreal Professional, Basicare and City & Guilds while media sponsors were Derana TV and Nawaliya.