Talented stylists in the running to win the renowned Step Up & SHINE scholarship are announced

The finalists are:

• Amanda Linehan, Hot Trend, Gillingham
• Kim Nicole, The Salon Owen & Torr, Anglesey
• Lewis Wilson, Wilson's Hairdressing, Macclesfield
• Bianca Jones, Oracle Hairdressing, Chippenham
• Bethany Somerset, Material, Bath
• Evelina Janukenaite, Rory James Hair, Horsforth

Entrants were required to complete an application form detailing their hairdressing background and ambitions and record a 60 second video on Instagram explaining why they would be the perfect person to win this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The next stage of the prestigious competition will see the successful finalists interviewed at their salon by a Step Up & SHINE representative. The final judging takes place in March with the winner of the scholarship announced in April 2019.

NHF/NBF President Agnes Leonard said: “Congratulations to all of our 2019 finalists! The Step Up and SHINE scholarship is a career-changing opportunity, so we’re looking for a passionate and enthusiastic stylist who will flourish from this invaluable mentoring. We wish all the finalists good luck and look forward to the next round of judging!

Step Up & SHINE was launched in association with the NHF/NBF 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.