MENU
SEARCHThe Professional Beauty Association (PBA) announced the Beacon Class of 2025, the newest group of emerging talent poised to shape the future of the industry. Nearly 200 students from across the US were accepted. Students receive exclusive access to industry experts and education.
The Professional Beauty Association (PBA), is thrilled to announce the Beacon Class of 2025, the newest group of emerging talent poised to shape the future of the industry.
The Beacon Program is a transformative initiative by the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) that provides students with an unparalleled opportunity to connect with industry leaders and mentors. By offering direct access to renowned experts, the Beacon Class of 2025 will gain the skills, insights, and relationships that will not only shape their careers but also influence the future of the beauty industry for years to come.
Beacon’s legacy classes include influential educators like Michelle O’Connor, Michael DeVellis, John Mosley, Jamal Edmonds, and many others.
“The opportunity to connect students with the best in the industry and provide mentorship is crucial to their success and the success of our industry,” said Leslie Perry, Executive Director, PBA. “The PBA deeply appreciates the dedication of these educators, whose passion helps mold the future of the industry.”
This year’s Beacon event will take place alongside Premiere Orlando, from May 31st to June 2nd. Students will have the chance to explore the largest beauty trade show in the United States and witness the prestigious 36th Annual North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA). Beacon students will also receive swag bags containing hundreds of dollars’ worth of products, courtesy of Beacon and NAHA sponsors.
PBA extends its gratitude to the Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation, which offers travel grants of up to $250 for the first 100 applicants to help ease the financial burden of attending Beacon. Additionally, PBA thanks The Associated Skin Care Professionals for providing $200 travel reimbursements to five skincare students.
Applying to Beacon requires a rigorous selection process, including submission of a Beautista Portfolio, a video introduction, social media portfolio, and letter of recommendation. Applications are reviewed by a panel of esteemed industry judges, including salon owners, manufacturers, and distributors.
Celebrating 60 years in haircare, Dippity-Do is honoring its styling heritage with its Girls with Curls collection, a reimagined Light Hold Gelée inspired by the brand's original 1965 styling gel.
Covet & Mane has expanded its Pro Color System with the launch of Color Boost Drops, completing what the company says is the first professional color system engineered specifically for hair extensions.
The 2026 Beauty Changes Lives Legacy Award has been awarded to Sam Villa for his trailblazing contribution, advocacy and mentorship that has profoundly transformed and elevated the professional beauty industry.
CND is relaunching its SHELLAC system with a new CND Visible Light Lamp, updated packaging, and an expanded shade offering.
Curl Cult founder Janine Jarman, a hairstylist, salon owner, educator, and product creator, is opening a community investment round that gives hairdressers and clients the opportunity to own a stake in the company they helped grow.
The night honored the artists and collections shaping the future of professional beauty during PBA NAHA 2026.
The ultra-lightweight, handle-free dryer is designed to reduce wrist strain while delivering powerful performance behind the chair.
Aura Salonware is proud to announce its 2026 scholarship recipients. This first-time scholarship in partnership with the Professional Beauty Association awarded three different scholarships to support beauty professionals at every point in their professional journey.
SalonCentric has announced its expansion into Alaska, marking the distributor’s presence across all 50 states and bringing additional access to professional beauty products, education and business support to licensed salon professionals in the region.
The 2026 Faces of Sola Visionaries encompass industry leaders driving innovation and meaningful change on their own terms.
Though their Astronaut of Hope collection of brushes and clips, ERGO Styling Tools raises $33,000 to support HairToStay, the first and only national nonprofit dedicated to making scalp cooling treatments affordable for cancer patients.
A new professional smoothing collection designed to help stylists control frizz and humidity while maintaining natural-looking results.
At the America’s Beauty Show press conference—hosted in collaboration with Cosmetologists Chicago—these standout professionals were recognized for their contributions to the industry.
A full day of education for hairstylists and salon pros focused on pricing, personal branding, client experience, social media, and long-term career growth.
A new report criticizes the regulations' impact against students and entrepreneurs.
As rich red-violet tones continue trending, the brand introduces two new demi shades designed for depth, shine, and dimensional color.
amika's new Stylist Circle is a community-first model designed to reflect and support the full spectrum of today's working stylists. Find out how you can join.
