We found some of the industry's brightest minds who can now fuel their freedom of expression without worrying about access to the hair education they need. Introducing, The Hair Freedom For All: Class of 2023! Meet the current stylists and future artists shaping the next era of haircare.
Quia Querisma @quialoves_hair
Most Inspirational Trailblazer
“I believe everyone deserves to celebrate their natural hair texture, so I love educating clients and stylists on how to best care for textured hair. Receiving this scholarship allows me to pursue in-depth color training with one of my favorite educators much sooner, I can’t wait to bring my improved skills to my clientele. Thanks so much for this opportunity, it means the world to me.”
Asia Bebber @Asia_Bebber
Most Fearless Dreamer
“I’ve been lucky enough to be in the industry as a hairstylist for 11 years, and I love what I do! I’m so beyond excited and motivated to start my journey as a certified Extension Professional, with my husband and my little boy as the best support system. So ready to take my career to the next level, this is a dream!”
Elise Reynolds @love.your.hairbyelise
Most Experimental Creative
“Being a hairstylist is my 4th career after starting in the Air Force. I absolutely love what I do now making a difference in a person’s life, and I couldn't ask for anything better. I cannot wait to further my education this year, and this scholarship is sending me forward.”
John A. Pantoja @johnnydyes
Most Driven Visionary
“I’m a Blonde specialist that’s 2 years into the industry, and ready to become a household name. You’ve allowed me to focus more on learning, expanding my services, and being a better all-around artist. It means the world.”
Kyra Scheeringa @lestalkhair
Biggest Boundary Pusher
“I’ve been in the industry for 10 years, teaching my clients to simplify their routine in a way it makes it fun! With this scholarship, I have the chance to change the perception of “my hair is difficult to work with”—no one should be made to feel bad about the hair they were given. I plan to make hair more enjoyable, and apply what I learn to my clients!”
Samantha Blake @Spellboundcurls
Most Likely To Succeed
“I am the only one in my family with curly hair, so I had to learn through trial and error how to manage my own curls. I wanted to specialize in curly hair to help those going through the same struggle. I am so grateful to have won this scholarship to continue my education in hair, so that I can help others fall in love with their curls as I did with mine.”
Jacqueline Henry @Iamjcurls
Most Likely To Grow
“I am a new curly hair specialist 5 months out of beauty school. I love that with being a hairstylist, we never stop learning. I am blessed to receive this opportunity to continue my education, allow my creativity to grow, and provide new services to my clients.”
Gloriana Oquendo @glori_styles
Most Likely To Challenge The Status Quo
“Ever since I was little, I knew I wanted to be an artist. Regardless of those saying this wasn’t a serious job, I pursued my passion for hair and eventually opened my own little studio. This scholarship means I can further my education in balayage and dimensional, lived-in hair, and elevate the experience for my clients—ultimately changing their lives.”
Alexandra Hughart @alexhhair
Most Inclusive Entrepreneur
“I’ve loved doing hair forever, and have been a hairstylist for 11 years now. In 2021 I created AH Hair LLC and specialize in curls and hair color for all hair types! This scholarship will allow me to expand my knowledge on curly hair, helping me create a positive and inclusive space. I am so grateful!”
Natalie Fernandez @Catcoiffeur
Most Inspirational Visionary
“Hair is my passion! I love getting to educate and teach other stylists on social media different hair techniques. I had big goals for myself while in beauty school, and put in so much work to fulfill those dreams. It means so much to be recognized and helped, I want every baby stylist to know that they can make their dreams possible!”
Aasha Waits
Most Promising Stylist-In-Training
“I am a highly creative, cosmetology student that grew up styling my family and friends’ hair. After having children, I left the accounting world to enroll in Cosmetology School and help people become a more beautiful version of themselves. I am beyond grateful for The Hair Freedom for All Scholarship, now I can pursue a new fulfilling career path that’s positively impacting the community with something as simple as a hairstyle, or haircut.”
Dawn Ford @doneupbydawnyllc
Most Daring Creative
“I am a 25-year-old cosmetology student that’s been experimenting with hair since the tender age of 12. After being miserable working at the Post Office, I resigned and began working my way up in a hair salon. Last year I decided it was time to take my career to the next level and get my license to do hair. This scholarship will make those dreams come true and change the fate of my career!”
These hair artists and students have blown us away with their dedication and passion for their craft. Are you feeling inspired? Stay tuned for the next round of our Hair Freedom For All Fund, supported by the Professional Beauty Association.