The American Crew All-Star Challenge highlights the outstanding world class talents in men’s grooming. The competition combines the art and science of men’s grooming and creating authentic style – the cut, the model and the photograph – to deliver the ultimate interpretation of the American Crew man.

Fifteen finalists recently competed in Brussels with two days of competition photo shoots on May 4 and 5, during which each cut and styled their model, then worked with American Crew Founder David Raccuglia to shoot and select the photo that would represent their final look. Adam Mir of the UK was announced as the American Crew 2016-2017 All-Star Challenge Global Winner on May 8th in a joint event with Revlon Style Masters.

Meet the Italian finalist, Domenico Dimola:

Describe your professional career path.

I started to work in my cousin’s salon as a summer job when I was 12 years old. I loved the job immediately and even though I was attending middle and then high school, I continued to go to the salon. Once I graduated as an accountant I went to the CAB hairdressers’ school in Bari where I perfected what I had already learned in the salon. When I finished the hairdressers’ school I had the pleasure to know American Crew and Revlon and attend their education courses. With them I learned a lot and I hope to continue learning because I think that you never stop learning!

What do you love most about being a stylist?

The things I like in my job are endless, but I especially enjoy the fact that I can unleash my creativity and inspiration, the fact that I am always meeting new people and that my job allows me to travel and work everywhere!

How has the American Crew™ brand influenced the way you view men’s grooming?

I owe a lot to American Crew because it’s the brand that has sharpened my vision of the masculine haircut through their education. After bewitching me with the AllStar Challenge and TeamCrew, it has made me set some goals that I wish to reach!

What does the American Crew™ All-Star Challenge mean to you?

For me, the All-Star Challenge was of the utmost importance. It was one of my most important goals. In addition to that it was fun, committing and allowed me to get to know other people very well.

Tell us in a #hashtag how you felt when you learned you won.

#sohappyIcouldcry #whatishappening #dontwakemeupfromthisdream

What advice would you give to anyone looking to pursue a career as a stylist?

My advice is: “Humility and professionalism one day will pay back all the sacrifices that each one must endure in order to meet one’s goal. Never forget these two values in life!”