“My friend Sam Villa started out by picking strawberries in a field with his family for Driscoll.  He moved on to sweep hair at his father’s barbershop, and after seeing his first hair show, Vidal Sassoon which it blew his mind, he quit college and went to beauty school.  And guess what?  His instructor told him to think about doing something else because he couldn’t get those rollers in the hair properly to set a perm,” says Chrystofer Benson, Founder of Chrystofer Benson.  “I mean, it’s priceless that this man from such humble beginnings went on to join a company like Redken and help build a global community of hairdressers…to evolve into one of the industry's most beloved icons.”

Villa’s movement of inspiration has groomed tens of thousands of hairdressers. It’s not just about teaching technique; he represents a philosophy…speaks from the heart and leads with purpose. One of his famous sayings is, “It’s not about ME, it’s about WE,” a testament to his mission of serving and recognizing everyone.

“When I picked up my first pair of shears and a comb in my dad’s barbershop, I never dreamed of an award like this, let alone two!” says Villa, who is also a NAHA Lifetime Achievement Award Winner.

“And to have this presented to me by Chrys makes it even sweeter…your artistry, leadership and relentless pursuit of excellence has elevated our entire industry, Chris. Thank you, my friend, you have set a standard that has inspired us all,” adds Villa.

Vilma Subel, Founder and Producer of the American Beauty Vision Awards, explains why they awarded Villa with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the American Beauty Vision Awards, “Sam’s passion for believing that we all deserve success and by uplifting one another, #ArtistsSupportingArtists, #BrandsSupportingBrands and #SalonsSupportingSalons, so we can collectively succeed and build a strong community together, is something we need to foster and celebrate.”

“This award is for everyone…all the people who have helped motivate and teach me. To all the students who are dedicated to learning, all the salon owners committed to advanced education, and all the incredible teachers that I continue to learn from.  These are the people I share this award with,” says Villa. “It’s never been about the hair; it’s always been about the people. Creating a connection and making someone feel seen, heard and beautiful. Our hands and the way we see things can change a person, and that is mighty powerful.”

To all the young stylists out there, Villa says, “Dream boldly and work tirelessly… your tools and color bowls are more than accessories for a technique, they are instruments of empowerment…for someday you will run this industry.”

This award signifies achievement, yet Villa is not done yet; he has much more planned and will share some exciting new projects in 2026. 

As Villa preaches: “Your progression is my obsession!”