Tressly hosted its fourth annual Tress Gala on Monday 26 October 2026, bringing together some of the biggest names in the UK's Black hair industry to celebrate talent, entrepreneurship and community
Held at The Londoner Hotel in Soho during Black History Month, the event recognised excellence across six award categories, celebrating everything from business acumen to braiding.
Tressly, the all-in-one business software for independent hairstylists, hosted the event with L'Oréal Professional Products as headline sponsor and HJ as proud media sponsor.
Hosted by Wunmi Bello, the evening celebrated the individuals whose creativity, dedication and expertise continue to shape the industry. Addressing guests, Wunmi said: "I think what is particularly special about tonight is that we're celebrating the people whose hands, vision and dedication have shaped this industry for the better. You guys have pushed boundaries and opened doors for this industry."
Hairdressing icon Errol Douglas MBE also took to the stage ahead of the awards announcements, highlighting the importance of recognising emerging talent.
"For me these awards are so important, especially with the amazing people in this room. What I want to say – and I really mean this – for those people who are going to be on this stage, I hope everyone gives you a huge round of applause, because you're is the new generation coming through," he said.
Representing headline sponsor L'Oréal Professional Products, Monica Teodoro, General Manager of Education and Professional Development UK & Ireland, also praised Tressly's commitment to creating opportunities and championing Black women in business. Addressing Antoinette Ale, Tressly Co-founder and CEO, she said: "We live in a world where people continuously make choices, and you've made a choice in which you empower, you elevate, and you make sure that Black entrepreneurial women have a place which they can express themselves and they can ensure that their clients are seen. So for that, everybody in this room is very grateful to you."
Tress Gala 2026 Winners
The evening recognised six winners across the following categories:
-
Hairstylist of the Year: Pashcan’el Mitchell, sponsored by K18.
-
The Entrepreneur Award: Rianna Hayden, sponsored by Cantu Beauty.
-
Best Wig Specialist: Moshope Onafuwa, sponsored by The Renatural.
-
Best Session Stylist: Shamara Roper, sponsored by amika.
-
Best Braider: Karissa White, sponsored by Design Essentials.
- The Changemaker Award: Charlotte Mensah, sponsored by HairCon.
Through its annual celebration, Tress Gala continues to provide a platform for recognising the talent, achievements and contributions of the UK's Black hair community.
Josie Jackson
Josie is a content writer at Professional Beauty, supporting the team with content for the print magazine, website and social media channels. With over four years' experience as a health and beauty journalist, Josie is dedicated to creating informative yet accessible content for all beauty professionals.
