Here’s how hairstylist Paul Pereira, who is also a Schwarzkopf Professional Essential Looks artist, put his career on the map by taking home a North American Hairstyling Award this year.

Step 1. Finding a Mentor.

“The first step was started learning my trade, specifically precision hair cutting at Vidal Sassoon. Sabino Di Tacchio trained me for competitions, and it was amazing and inspiring. The best part is that the experience was exclusively driven by my desire for learning.”

Step 2. Building On Success.

“After achieving some success in live competitions, I changed my focus to larger competitions, which led me to the Contessas. Following that I worked with a modeling agency and had the opportunity to do a lot of creative work and build my portfolio and learn how to do hair for the camera.”

Step 3. Staying in the Competition.

“Approximately five years ago, I entered the Contessas where I was a finalist for Ontario and Canada. My vision was crystal clear for what I wanted so I kept entering with my team. In the mid-2000s I finally won a Contessa in the Men’s Hairstylist category. It was such an honor to be featured amongst the work of many legendary hairstylists.”

Step 4. Getting on the Platform

“When I started with Schwarzkopf Professional they needed an artist for their Essential Looks team because one of their team members was going on maternity leave. Fast forward seven years, I’m still here and there’s just so much that I have learned.”

Step 5. Moving Forward

“By building a good reputation and by working at events like during Toronto and New York fashion weeks, I was able to learn and grow. The best strategy is to build your resume and have fun doing it, right now I’m working on CTV’s The Social and I’ve been featured on Steve and Chris, The Marilyn Denis Show and Cityline.”