Cosmo Prof’s second annual Color the World virtual education event is October 16-17, and jam-packed with education, competition, CE classes, and more. For just $60, licensed professionals and students get a front-row seat to three main stage shows and 15 classrooms per day.

“Cosmo Prof's goal is to be an ally to stylists by providing access to quality education from the best educators in the industry through top brands like Schwarzkopf, Alterna, Pravana, Color Wow, Goldwell, Moroccanoil, Wella, Sebastian, STMNT, #mydentity, Rusk, TIGI, Olaplex, JPMS, Matrix, American Crew, Sexy Hair, Aquage, Joico, Farouk Systems, and more,” says April Holt, group vice president of stores, Beauty Systems Group.

Your Color the World ticket also includes two weeks of post-event access to the entire show and 22 CE classes so you can earn CE hours.

“This year, we’re excited to offer an experience for professionals who want to attend Color the World in person,” Holt says. “We partnered with AMC Theatres to host a watch party in Santa Clara, California, and Roseville, Minnesota. By purchasing a two-day ticket, stylists local to these areas can sign up to watch the event as a community, network, receive free samples, giveaway opportunities, and more sponsored by #Mydentity, STMNT, Sexy Hair, and Rusk.”

Virtually the Best

In the past few pandemic years, Cosmo Prof has perfected its virtual education game. And this year’s Color the World will be its best event yet.

“We have 36 classes for stylists to choose from to hone their skills and artistry,” says Holt. “They will learn how to take demi-permanent color to the next level with Josie Vilay of Schwarzkopf, the latest blonding techniques from Joico Master Artists Nikole Wood and Chad Demchuk, and more at Color the World.”

Holt adds, “In addition to classes on the latest trends and techniques, we are also thrilled to offer business-based courses such as the ‘KAO Salon Social Acumen’ class with Goldwell, where stylists will learn how social can support their business. We know how important this is.”

This year’s event has also expanded to include barbering, nails, and skincare.

“We have an expanded schedule covering hair color for all hair types, skincare education from Murad, a grooming barbershop class from STMNT, and two classes on nails led by Terry Nguyen of Kiara Sky,” says Holt.

And not only is education available to both US and Canadian stylists (including an exclusive Matrix Canada mainstage for Canadian customers), classes in Spanish will also roll out this year.

“We added Spanish-language classes to provide greater access to quality education with classes taught by industry-leading brands like Wella, Paul Mitchell, Olaplex, and Joico,” Holt says.

Another big change to this year’s event is the addition of host Tashara Parker and special guest artist Chris Appleton.

Parker is an Emmy-winning journalist in Dallas with a passion for natural hair texture. Her Bun Ministry Movement ignites conversation about hair discrimination and promotes a space to celebrate, educate, and empower individuals to embrace natural hair.

“We are thrilled Chris Appleton, world-renowned celebrity hairstylist and Creative Director of Color Wow, is headlining this year’s event as a live special guest,” Holt says. “He will share his favorite products and techniques to master a glam look from his extensive experience styling A-list celebrity clients.”

Color the World attendees can also look forward to three live competitions: professional, student and nails.

“Traditionally focused on hair styling and color, this year’s contestants will also compete in the nail and textured hair categories,” Holt says. “They will have the chance to win $1,500 in prizes.”

Color Curl Concierges and Continued Education

Education is a top priority at Cosmo Prof, and about a year ago, the Color Curl Concierge program was created to provide expert advice on products, services and business solutions. Personalized sessions can be scheduled in-store here. In addition to Color the World and Color and Curl Concierge, Cosmo Prof has a wide variety of CE offerings, free of charge. 

"Throughout the year, Cosmo Prof offers virtual educational classes monthly in addition to offering CE credits at major events like Color the World and World of Texture."

Classes cover everything from curly hair techniques to social media to the business of color.

“We work hard to ensure educational opportunities are available year-round for stylists,” Holt says. “Working with top brands to provide best-in-class resources continues to be a priority for our team.”

Keep your eye out for Cosmo Prof’s World of Texture event, coming February 2023.

Disclaimer: This article was written based on the most up-to-date information and is subject to change.