Farouk Systems' 16th International Conference, "Peace and Love." THE VENUE: Moon Palace Resort in Cancun, Mexico.
THE DETAILS: More than 5,000 people from 100 countries attended the Friday night welcoming party complete with Mariachis and fire dancers. The next two days saw stage presentations by hairdressing teams from Latin America, North America, Europe, the Middle East and Australia. The grand finale had Palestinian Jamal Shami and Oren Ore of Israel performing on stage together. On the business side, Farouk Systems introduced Vision, their latest trend collection, a style guide for consumers, new CHI ceramic tools, CHI Organics Olive Nutrient Therapy, Silk Therapy Color and announced that all CHI tools will now be made in the USA. Saturday evening top educators and artistic team members were recognized. The conference wrapped Sunday evening with an awards gala honoring Farouk Systems' top sales, distributors and chain partners. Farouk received a letter of congratulations from His Majesty King Abdullah II from Jordan delivered by His Excellency Aqel Biltaji Senior Advisor to His Majesty the King.
THE BUZZ: The conference included Houston's own Michelle Williams from Destiny's Child singing "We Break the Dawn." Also serenading the crowd was Glennis Grace from Holland and Poland's Gosia Andrzejewcz. Guest appearances were made by Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, Miss Puerto Rico, Miss Netherlands, Miss Italy, Miss Germany, Miss Israel and Deborah Duncan, inspirational speaker and Houston television host.
THE LAST WORD: Farouk Systems' 17th International Conference, themed Made in the USA, will be held in Houston, Texas in 2010.
Israel's Oren Ore on stage.
Palestinian stylist Jamal Shami works a cut on his model.
Farouk President Shauky Gulimani shares the stage with Michelle Williams as she sings "We Break the Dawn."
A model from Team Latin America gets the finishing touches.
Farouk Founder and Chairman Farouk Shami address the crowd.
Models for Team Australia emerged with avant-garde wigs and gowns.
Team Australia's models were transformed by doffing their wigs and gowns, revealing freshly cut hair and minimalist clothing.
Couture style from Team Europe.
Haute hair from Team North America.
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