✂️ What I Learned From the Global Creative Awards and TrendVision 2025
Reflections on creativity, growth and competition.
Why I Entered
Every stylist reaches a point where they need to challenge themselves again — to see what happens when creativity is pushed to its limit. For me, entering both the Kao Salon Global Creative Awards and Wella Professionals National TrendVision Award 2025 wasn’t about trophies or recognition. It was about growth. I wanted to step outside my comfort zone, learn, and reconnect with what I love most about hair — creativity, colour, and storytelling.
Competitions give you that space. You work without rules, purely guided by imagination, skill, and instinct.
The Kao Global Creative Awards — “Orange Glow”
My Kao entry, “Orange Glow”, was inspired by warmth, rebellion, and movement. I wanted to capture the feeling of light on skin — the moment the sun hits the horizon and everything turns to gold and fire. The look mixes nostalgia with modern energy: geometric lines, fluid texture, and tones that shift from citrus to copper to pink.
It was a study in contrasts — soft versus structured, coolness meeting heat. Being named a Top 5 finalist in South Africa for this piece was surreal. Seeing my vision come alive reminded me that creativity isn’t about perfection; it’s about emotion.
The Wella TrendVision Award — “Surreal Colour”
For the Wella competition, the theme was “Surreal Colour — Inspired by AI, Created by Professionals.” That idea fascinated me. AI represents endless possibility — but as stylists, we bring the human touch that gives it heart. I wanted to create something that felt otherworldly yet organic — bright, textured curls radiating confidence and individuality.
My palette shifted from soft blushes to vivid yellow, symbolising transformation and strength. The look felt alive — unapologetic and fearless. Making it to the Top 6 national finalists was an honour, and the final announcement will take place on 1 November 2025. Win or lose, the experience has already been its own reward.
What I Learned
You learn so much about yourself in these spaces — how you think under pressure, how you adapt when the idea in your head doesn’t translate perfectly on hair. Most importantly, you learn that growth happens in discomfort. The moments when you doubt yourself are usually the moments when your work evolves.
Competitions push you to be deliberate — every cut, tone, and decision has meaning. And they remind you that creativity isn’t just a skill; it’s a language.
Advice for Other Stylists
- If you’re thinking about entering — do it. You’ll never feel completely ready — start anyway.
- Build your concept early and test it. Play, experiment, and refine.
- Let your work tell a story. Every colour, shape, and texture should express a feeling.
- Trust your eye. Trends come and go. Your artistic voice lasts.
Closing Reflection
I came back to the salon inspired, humbled, and hungrier than ever. Competitions remind me why I fell in love with hair — it’s art that moves, breathes, and tells a story.
Thank you to Kao, Goldwell, and Wella for the inspiration — and to my clients and friends for all the support. Here’s to more creativity ahead.
If you’d like to see more of my competition work, follow me on Instagram @lourens_hair.