Five finalists and their models, who presented live at the event on 22 September, were tasked with creating boundary-pushing creative colour looks.
Keep scrolling to see this year's key dates...
Alongside the competition, ten additional hair show models were presented by Quif Ambassadors Brooke Evans, Georgia Bell and the @quifhair creative team their Strong Foundations hair show.
The evening also featured an engaging panel discussion with Brooke Evans, Joseph Ferraro, and NHBF Chief Executive Caroline Larrissey, who tackled some of the most pressing issues currently affecting the hairdressing industry such as new salon models of employment and self-employment.
Winner Amelia Wilmott, based in Blackpool, is a member of Hair Socials Professional and a current Fellowship ClubStar member. Her innovative approach and stage presence set her apart on the night, impressing judges and earning her the prestigious title.
The judging panel was made up of HJ's own Editor Charlotte Grant-West; Amanda Nottage, Editor Creative Head; Jennifer Paxton, Editor SalonEVO; Laura Jowsett, from Professional Hairdresser; Adam Tudor, Quif Brand Manager and John Anthoney, Quif Education Manager.
Amelia says: “Winning Quif Centre Stage has been such a surreal and proud moment for me. It represents the chance to show my creativity and passion for hair. For me, my look was all about movement. Fire is uncontrollable and wild and that’s exactly how I want to push myself in my career. Keep pushing the boundaries, never standing still and embracing the challenge of creating something new. It was a look that gave me a chance to create, and story tell with creative colour.
This win has given me more drive to keep pushing myself further. It was such a great day and I was honoured to be in a room surrounded with so much talent and creativity.”
The event was made possible thanks to the support of the Alan Howard Education Team and Host Manchester, who provided the prep area and backstage facilities for the finalists.
Quif Centre Stage competition is due to be held 21 September in 2026, head to www.alanhoward.co.uk/quif-centre-stage/ to see venue details and opening dates, coming soon!
