Wella Professionals recently announced the winners of the 4th Wella Student Competition, held June 2, 2014 during Premiere Orlando. To shine a light on students from Wella partner cosmetology schools, the company named six future stylists, who already create beauty, and defy convention.
“With this competition, we are fostering a community of young, driven, and talented stylists,” said Carole Protat, Creative Director, Wella North America. “All the students’ online entries showed a passion that matches Wella’s own. We are committed to supporting these outstanding stylists, and all stylists, throughout every stage of their careers.”
Finalists were judged by a panel of top industry artists, including: Paula Rufo, Wella Education Associate Manager; Danny Lozada, Wella Puerto Rico Artist; Christina McCarver, Prestige Education Manager; Mika Quinn, Wella Director of Education; and Katey-Bug Browne, Team I.C.A.N. and Ambassador for Wella Hairdressers at Heart.
Announcing the 2014 Wella Student Competition winners:
In the Wella Professionals category:
GOLD: Dorlissea Darnee’, Regency Beauty Institute - Cooperwood, CO
SILVER: Zoudi Abraha, Bellus Academy - Poway, CA
BRONZE: Cortnee Christine Farris, Regency Beauty Institute - Olathe, KS
In the Sebastian Professional category:
GOLD: Yvonne Acosta, Bellus Academy - El Cajon, CA
SILVER: Yolanda Real, Beau Monde College of Hair Design – Portland, OR
BRONZE Saul Sotelo, Ogle School - San Antonio, TX
Instructor of the Year Named
Wella also believes that behind every great student is a great teacher. To honor cosmetology teachers, every student who competed in the 2014 Wella Student Competition could nominate their mentor or instructor for special recognition. The “Instructor of the Year” is someone who encourages and inspires students throughout their journeys to becoming amazing stylists.
Wella proudly saluted Rie Yamada, Beau Monde College of Hair Design, Portland, OR, as the 2014 Wella Instructor of the Year. “It is important to me to bring the inspiration I receive from Wella and Sebastian back to my students,” said Yamana on accepting her award. “In a word, it’s all about passion, having a passion for beauty.”
The Wella Student Competition may be viewed via webcast at www.facebook.com/WellaEd.
[Images courtesy of Vi Nelson & Associates]
