British hairdresser of the year nominees: akin konizi

Akin Konizi wants to make history. Having spent the past year travelling the world holding seminars, directing photo shoots and watching his HOB Academy reach new heights, he is stealing himself for the announcement of HJ's British Hairdresser of the Year.

"Winning the last two years was unbelieveable, so to win for a third consecutive time, not only would I be making history, but it would be the pinnacle of my career."

Also a past winner of both the Eastern and London categories, Akin has confirmed his name as one of British hairdressing's greats, and believes his hard work and dedication are starting to pay off.

So, how would he describe his signature look? "I think it is hard to limit yourself in this industry to a certain style, but I am passionate about strong geometric cuts because I enjoy the challenge of making the strong, hard lines look soft, sexy and feminine on a woman, in addition to the technically demanding and boundary- pushing aspects," he enthuses. "Particularly in my collections, they don't just reflect hair cuts, but the extensive work with styling and dressing of the hair gives another dimension to the work I create."

When Akin entered his cousin's salon at the age of 17, he knew it was a world he wanted to be part of - one that was full of energy and passion. "I'm lucky to have chosen a career path that is diverse and full of variety. One minute I can be educating in the academy, or holding a press day in the salon, and the next, I could be on a shoot, doing a show or travelling abroad to present seminars - it's great."

Akin describes life as  'hectic but fantastic. And, it doesn't look like it will calm down any day soon. Over the next few years, he will be focusing on training, and growing HOB Education, teaching hairdressers both within the company and across the globe. There are also plans to expand the company, salon owned and franchising. "I feel proud of everything that I, my incredible team and HOB Salons have achieved - and there's more to come!"

Akin's British Hairdresser of the Year 2010 Collection