All about... tiff j

UK hairdressing is the best in the world, but it's not just about the top names and celebrity stylists. We find out more about one of hairdressing's rising stars to find out who inspires them.

Name: Tiff J

Age: 26

Job title: Art director

Place of work: 3Thirty Hair and Beauty, Old Street, London

Training and qualifications: NVQ City & Guilds Level 1, 2 and 3. L'Oreal Professionel Colour Diploma, Bumble and bumble network educator and Mizani trained specialist. 

Best advice ever given: Don't be afraid to be confident in your ability. Trusting yourself is a huge part of working in this industry and sometimes taking a risk really pays off. I opened my salon in 2099 which wasn't a great time economically, but I'm glad I took the chance because it's paid off.

Career highlight: Being a finalist in the 2009 L'Oreal Colour Trophy.

Favourite celebrity hairstyle: I really like Dannii Minogue's look. It's versatile, easy to maintain, and age-appropriate. The caramel blonde flatters her skine tone and emphasises her eyes.

Best part of the job: I love the ability to transform how people look and feel about themselves. Clients can come in having a bad day and, by the time they've left, they're happy, smiling and confident.

In the next five years, I want to be: Part of an award-winning salon. We have a great creative team and it's really important to me to be recognised by the people I admire and respect within the industry.

My hairdressing hero is: Vidal Sassoon for his ability to take a classic cut and give it a modern edge, and his commercial awareness.

Worst part of the job: There aren't many bad bits, but I'd have to say the end-of-day tasks. I'm not sure anyone really enjoys them!

My inspiration comes from: My older sister. I started in her salon as a Saturday girl and she taught me a great deal, as well as inspiring me.

If I wasn't a hairdresser... I'd love to be a pilot.