Kaduna State NASHCO Hair Creativity Competition 2024 Finale Honours Top Hairstylists

The National Association of Hairstylists and Cosmetologists (NASHCO) successfully wrapped up its second annual Hair Creativity Competition in Kaduna State on Monday, 28 October 2024, with an exhilarating showcase of hairstyling prowess. 

Sponsored by Kanekalon, the event brought hairstylists together from across the state, transforming the Aguyilo Multipurpose Hall in Ungwan Romi into a hub of creativity and artistry as participants displayed stunning hair designs using X-Pression products.

The competition, marked by a vibrant atmosphere, drew an audience of over 500 enthusiasts and industry stakeholders. 

It was a celebratory yet tense occasion as finalists, who had triumphed through the initial rounds, battled for the top prizes. 

The occasion was graced by Kano State NASHCO President, Mr Paul, who attended in solidarity with his Kaduna counterpart. 

Kaduna State NASHCO President, Tina Danbaba, expressed gratitude to the national executives, sponsors, and attendees, extending her best wishes to the competing stylists in her welcome address.

National NASHCO President, Angela Akanle, addressed the audience, highlighting the value of hairstyling and cosmetology in Nigeria’s creative economy. 

She encouraged stylists to elevate their craft, pursue excellence, and expand their skills across various hairstyling disciplines. 

“Our profession is second to none,” Akanle remarked, urging participants to persevere and aspire to set new standards in the industry.

National Secretary of NASHCO, Godwin Oghenechuko, presented the finalists to the audience, explaining the judging criteria, which included style, appearance, conduct, tools, finishing, and a Q&A segment. 

The evaluation process aimed to assess the contestants’ technical skills, creativity, and professionalism.

Representatives from Kanekalon, Miebi and Mary Sia, engaged the audience with an interactive session, offering insights into the brand’s history and the unique qualities of X-Pression products. 

They also conducted a product demonstration, followed by a Q&A session where lucky audience members won prizes, further boosting the event’s festive spirit.

The competition featured three rounds: casual weaves, traditional African styles, and the ceremonial ‘Abanga’ style. 

Each round demonstrated the contestants’ adaptability and innovation, particularly the traditional segment, which thrilled the audience. 

The final round included a Q&A session, where contestants were quizzed on their profession, association knowledge, and expertise with X-Pression products.

The climactic awards ceremony saw Contestant No. 2 clinch the first prize, taking home a generator and a cash prize of 150,000 naira. 

Contestant No. 8 earned second place with a wall hair dryer and 100,000 naira, while Contestant No. 3 came third, winning a hairdryer, straighter, curler, and 50,000 naira. 

Additional consolation prizes were awarded to other contestants, and an honourary award was given to Contestant No. 8 for excelling in the Q&A segment, courtesy of Kanekalon and X-Pression.

Reflecting on the success of the competition, Kanekalon representatives expressed satisfaction with the “inviting African team spirit” displayed throughout the event and pledged to enhance their support for the Nigerian hair industry.

With memorable styles and uplifting experiences, the NASHCO Hair Creativity Competition 2024 finale in Kaduna State has left a lasting impact, inspiring participants and the audience alike and fostering a renewed passion for hairstyling excellence across the country.