JAMES KENDELL WINNER OF THE SASSOON SCHOLARSHIP 2023

James Kendell, a hairdresser from Collective Studios in Leeds, was announced as the winner of the prestigious Fellowship Sassoon Scholarship in 2023. The Sassoon Scholarship is a highly coveted opportunity in the industry, providing advanced training and mentorship from the renowned Sassoon Academy which is arguably the best training in the world.

1.    What inspired you to apply for the Fellowship scholarship, and how do you believe this opportunity will contribute to your growth as a hairdresser?

My inspiration to apply for the Sassoon Scholarship was largely influenced by my previous mentors during my time working at Russell Eaton & BarberBarber. Working for Sassoon had always been an ambition of mine, although this never materialised it remained a constant in the back of my mind. So what’s the next best thing? To learn from them.

This scholarship presents an incredible opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge, skills, and experience from renowned hairdressers. By learning cutting-edge techniques, mastering new styles, and immersing myself in the creative world of hairdressing, I believe this opportunity will significantly contribute to my growth as a hairdresser.

2.    Can you share the vision behind your scholarship application/entry? How did you conceptualise and execute your ideas to showcase your skills and creativity?

The scholarship application was a challenging one for me, as it was unlike any other entry I had seen before. Instead of simply presenting myself and showcasing a few pictures of my work, the application required me to explain why I deserved the scholarship in roughly 200 words. As someone who has struggled with imposter syndrome, writing about why I deserved something seemed like an impossible task.

To overcome this, I decided to approach the application from a different angle. Rather than boasting about my achievements, I focused on what I wanted to do with the scholarship and how I intended to share the infectious feeling and knowledge I would gain from Sassoon with others. By shifting the emphasis from myself to the potential impact of the scholarship, I was able to articulate my vision more effectively.

3.    Who or what served as your main source of inspiration when creating your application? How did you incorporate these influences while still maintaining your unique style and perspective?

My main source of inspiration has always been my mentors. They are the individuals who have shaped my career and have had a profound impact on my development as a hairdresser. When approaching the application, I broke my presentation down into three key components: who I am, why I wanted to learn from Sassoon, and what I intended to do with the scholarship. By addressing these aspects, I was able to showcase my individuality and maintain my distinct style as a hair creative.

By structuring my application around these three pillars, I was able to effectively incorporate the influences of my mentors while maintaining my unique style and perspective. Their guidance and support have been instrumental in shaping my career, and I wanted to honour their impact while showcasing my own individuality and potential as a hairdresser.

4.    Describe your experience during the scholarship interview process. What kind of feedback did you receive from the judges, and how did it help you reflect on your strengths and areas for improvement?

No matter how prepared you are the nerves always seem to kick in. My main focus was to enter the room and ensure that the first five minutes went smoothly. Ironically, my digital presentation didn’t work, and the smooth start I had envisioned quickly vanished. Thankfully, I had prepared a mood board and handouts for each judge to follow along with my presentation, which allowed me to proceed with ease.

During the presentation, I initially focused on Karoliina Saunders, Chancellor for the Fellowship for British Hairdressing, one of the judges, who maintained a constant smile throughout, which was really calming. Riess Hatcher, the Sassoon principle, posed the only question of the afternoon, asking how I intended to overcome my imposter syndrome. I replied stating, "You are seeing me here and now, overcoming it."

Upon finishing my presentation, Sam Jones, from Mutu Software, expressed that my presentation was inspiring, a sentiment that was echoed by the other judges. I left the interview feeling immensely proud, knowing that regardless of the outcome, I had given it my all.

Overall, the scholarship interview process was a valuable learning experience that provided insights into my strengths and areas for growth. The positive feedback from the judges served as a powerful motivation to continue pursuing my passion and striving for excellence in the hairdressing industry.

5.    Take us back to the moment when you were announced as a scholarship winner. How did you feel, and what thoughts ran through your mind as you realised you had achieved this significant milestone in your career?

On the day I was expecting to receive the news about the scholarship, I couldn't take my eyes off my phone. However, you know how it is as a hairdresser, I was attending to clients and missed the call by a matter of minutes. When I called Rita, who looks after the Projects & Scholarships for the Fellowship for British Hairdressing, back, she broke the news that I had been selected as the scholarship winner. In that moment, I couldn't quite believe what I was hearing. My feelings were of pure elation, and I was overwhelmed with joy and gratitude.

I realised that this scholarship was not only a recognition of my hard work and dedication but also a chance to learn from the best in the industry and take my skills to new heights. I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that I had achieved a significant milestone in my career.

I remember sharing the news with pretty much everyone who would listen, from my colleagues and clients to my family and friends. Their support and encouragement only added to the excitement and sense of fulfilment I felt.

6.    Can you share some insights into your first few days on the scholarship? What activities have you participated in, and how have these experiences already begun to shape your perspective on the industry and your role within it?

My overall experience as part of the Sassoon scholarship has exceeded all my expectations. I've been blown away by the constant support from the Fellowship, aiding me with everything throughout my time. I'd highly recommend attending both Sassoon Manchester and London for a well-rounded experience. Both salons and education facilities are next to none.
The first training session of the scholarship took place in Manchester. I specifically knew I wanted to start my journey with the ABC Cut Women 2-day course, as I knew it would lay the foundation for my remaining courses. The lead educator for the day, Lee Nunn, was truly awe-inspiring. His depth of knowledge was remarkable, and he left no stone unturned in his teaching.

During our two practical sessions, I was provided with two amazing models whose hair types couldn’t have been more different. This experience allowed me to refine my current skill set and gain a greater understanding of hair, which I have been able to implement when teaching in the salon. Moreover, these experiences have made me realise the significance of my role as an educator within the salon. By sharing the insights and techniques I have acquired through the scholarship, I can contribute to the growth and development of my colleagues and apprentices.
During my second training session, all three mentors, Lee, Danielle, and James, were flawless in executing their education. Each mentor took time out of their schedule post-training session when asked to evaluate my time with them. This opportunity isn't to be missed. I'd like to encourage the barbering industry to get involved and put themselves forward just as much as young budding hairdressers have over the previous years, as everything I've learnt has been transferable to my salon and creative work.

Getting hands-on with creative colour placement, exploring the minds of some incredible talents on the ABC Men+, has given me the confidence to incorporate colour into my day-to-day routine, creating more lived-in looks for my clientele. Safe to say, this has been a career highlight and won't be forgotten.

The first two sessions of the scholarship have been incredibly enriching and have already sparked a renewed sense of enthusiasm and dedication to my craft. I am eager to continue this journey of learning and discovery, knowing that each experience will further shape my perspective and strengthen my ability to make a positive impact in the hairdressing industry.