The 12^th annual HOT SHOTS competition will announce its team this Sunday June 12 at The Star during the Australian Hair Industry Awards, with an illustrious panel of judges and innovative sponsors backing this talented young group.

The HOT SHOTS team congregates a group of next gen talent, shining a spotlight on hairdressing stars aged 31 and under who are ready to elevate their career to the next level. Judges are looking for hairdressers who excel in the areas of cutting, styling, editorial and colour work, as well as hairdressers who have a unique style, unparalleled passion and a clear vision of the future. Past winners have included successful hairdressers Sam James, Uros Mikic, Brodie Lee-Tsiknaris, Jordan Hone and Jules Tognini, showcasing the power of the platform on future success.

Sponsors in the event have been named as Joico, Evy Professional, Excellent Edges, Amazing Hair, Wahl Professional and Timely. This year’s judging panel consists of Dee Parker-Attwood, Jayne Wild, Benni Tognini, Stevie English, Kobi Bokshish, Sharon Blain and Brad Ngata.

Winners will be mentored over a three-day stay in the renowned HOT SHOTS House, by industry icons such as Dee Parker Attwood, Lyndal Salmon, Jayne Wild, Errol Douglas, Dario Cotroneo and Richard Kavanagh, and will participate in a fully mentored photo shoot with renowned photographer and makeup artist Andrew and Kylie O’Toole. Team members will also will a include full styling, electrical and scissor kit, an editorial extension kit, a clipper set and surprise gifts.

“The HOT SHOTS program is something we are incredibly proud of, and we have been able to watch year after year as the winners have grown through this money can’t buy experience, becoming some of our most exciting talent. Initiatives like this, which actively foster the next generation, are crucial for our industry to thrive and I am so appreciative to these sponsors who recognise the overwhelming power of education and opportunity,” shared Mocha’s Linda Woodhead.

The winners will be announced this weekend at the AHIAs (Creative) as the awards platform and Hair Festival take over Sydney to ensure the June long weekend belongs to the hairdressing industry. Good luck to all the finalists!

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