A Night to Remember in Orlando

 The professional beauty industry’s most dazzling night came to a spectacular close as the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) unveiled the winners of the 36th Annual North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA)—a celebration of vision, innovation, and transformative artistry.

A Sold-Out Celebration of Artistic Excellence

Held on June 1 at the Chapin Theater in Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center, the evening welcomed nearly 1,700 attendees who gathered to witness some of the most creative and groundbreaking work in professional beauty.

Embracing the theme “Show Your True Colors,” the evening was a vibrant tribute to authenticity, individuality, and fearless self-expression. This marks the second consecutive year that NAHA has soldout, underscoring the event’s prestige and cultural relevance.

“NAHA is more than a competition—it’s a platform for artists to pause and reflect on their work, their voice, and their impact,” said Leslie Perry, Executive Director, PBA. “It’s the one time in a licensed professional’s career where they get to step out of the everyday hustle and ask: Who am I as an artist? What do I want my work to say?”

And the Winners Are…

From Haircolor to Editorial Styling, Barbering to Avant Garde, each finalist delivered exceptional artistry—and the winners truly transcended expectations.

• Avant Garde Award: Rusty Phillips (@rustyphillips13)

• Barber of the Year: Carlos Estrella (@Los_cut_it)

• Editorial Stylist of the Year: Maggie Semaan (@maggiesemaan)

• Educator of the Year: Candy Shaw (@thebalaylama)

• Haircolor Award: Breanne Gershon (@glam.breanne)

• Haircutting Award: Evie Johnson (@contactevie)

• Hairstylist of the Year: David Barron (@barronslondonsalon)

• Inspiring Salon of the Year: Salon 27 (@salon27az)

• Makeup Artist of the Year: Angela Balbon (@mzbartistry)

• Master Hairstylist of the Year: Matthew Morris (@matthewmorriscode)

• NAHA Moment: Brooke LeMasters (@brookelemastershair)

• Student Hairstylist of the Year: Allison Dexter (@cauldron_of_color)

• Styling and Finishing: Breanne Gershon (@glam.breanne)

• Team of the Year: Cult Salon (@cult.salon.co)

• Texture: Vernon François (@vernonfrancois)

 Honoring an Icon: Antoinette Beenders

One of the night’s most emotional and powerful moments was the presentation of the Industry Icon Award—bestowed this year on Antoinette Beenders, Senior Vice President of Global Artistry at Aveda.

A creative force and legendary mentor, Antoinette has shaped generations of artists and redefined what it means to lead with both vision and heart.

“The Industry Icon doesn’t just set the standard—they redefine what’s possible,” said Perry. “Through fearless creativity, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to the craft, Antoinette Beenders has ignited inspiration across generations.”

Powered by Industry Support

The PBA extends its heartfelt gratitude to the generous sponsors who make NAHA possible. Their support fuels the innovation, education, and excellence that drive the professional beauty industry forward.

2025 NAHA Sponsors Include:
Amika, Aloxxi, Aveda, Biolage, Denman Professional, Dyson, JCPenney, Goldwell, L’Oréal Professional Products, Matrix, milk_shake, Mizani, Moroccanoil, My Salon Suite, Olaplex, Paul Mitchell, Pure Brazilian, Pureology, Redken, Schwarzkopf, Solano, The Texture of Change, and Ulta.

 The Future Is Bold

As the night closed with cheers and confetti, one message echoed loud and clear: show your true colors—today, tomorrow, and beyond.