The excitement and energy of the Contessas is in the air and we’re excited to see what Canada’s very best in artistic vision and talent has to offer this year. The Student/Apprentice Category offers new talent the chance to explore his or her creative visions and concepts, opening up additional career opportunities. 

With the July 30 entry deadline fast approaching, we checked in with previous category winners and see where they are now.

Andree Rodrigues

Winner, Contessa 26 Student/Apprentice Hairstylist of the Year; Junior Stylist, Zazou Salon and Spa, Vancouver

In what way has winning a Contessa shaped how you envision your future?

I think that winning made me believe that I am on the right path in my career. Being a hairdresser is hard work. Some of my biggest lessons [have] come from being a hairdresser. I definitely have had a day or two where I wondered if I’m even good enough, [but] winning my first Contessa award is just a sweet reminder from the universe that I am.

Will you be entering the Contessas this year?

I will be [entering] under the New Hairstylist category. I might not make it to the same place as [I did] last year, but I am so grateful I work in a salon that lets me try. I will always try even if I don’t win every time.

What’s next?

I think what I am most concentrated on now is zoning in on my skills and really finding my own style. And learning, learning, learning; I’m addicted to education. I’m excited to see myself evolve. I kind of like not knowing the full path of my future. It keeps things interesting

Jaelyn Walker

Winner, Contessa 25 Student/Apprentice Hairstylist of the Year; Senior Stylist at Space Salon, Vancouver

What’s changed for you since winning the Student/Apprentice Category?

Since winning the Student/Apprentice Category my life has become all about hair! It reassured me that I am doing what I love and what I was meant to do. It’s given me the confidence to enter more competitions and really develop my skills. I became a role model to the young apprentices and junior stylists at my salon, and within six months I received a promotion to senior stylist. My passion for this industry grew tremendously and I couldn’t be more grateful for the experience.

How has winning this category motivated you artistically?

Artistically, I feel pretty liberated. I now feel like I can explore concepts I was perhaps frightened to before. I have always loved playing with textures and pairing them with soft colours, so now I am pushing the boundaries of that and learning new techniques to incorporate into editorial work. 

What’s next?

Next up I am entering the New Hairstylist category for Contessa and looking forward to the results! I have a new appreciation for the hard work and team effort it takes to create a collection. I am also representing A Michael Levine Salon Group on-stage at a presentation in June. 

 Want to see how the Contessa Awards come together or give us a sneak peek behind-the-scenes at your photo shoot? Hashtag #Contessa2016 and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to get in on all the action.