Creativity, talent and plenty of showstopping hair took centre stage at Salon International 2026, as eight rising stars battled it out for a coveted place on the Fellowship for British Hairdressing's 2027 F.A.M.E. Team!
Held on 4 October 2026, the highly anticipated finals saw the talented hopefuls put their technical skills, artistry and creative vision to the test in front of an esteemed judging panel and live audience. Sponsored by K18, Hanzo Scissors and Olivia Garden, the event was hosted by Fellowship Presenting Team Members Steph Gallagher and James Parr.
What Is the Fellowship F.A.M.E. Team?
For emerging hairdressing talent looking to take their careers to the next level, the Fellowship Academy of Merit and Excellence (F.A.M.E.) Team offers an incredible opportunity to learn from some of the industry's biggest names.
Designed to nurture, encourage and champion up-and-coming hairdressers, the annual initiative gives a select group of talented individuals the chance to experience an exciting year of education, creativity and professional development. From exclusive mentoring days and photoshoots to working on shows and seminars both in the UK and overseas, the programme offers invaluable opportunities to develop their skills, build industry connections and gain hands-on experience. Members also receive training in areas such as media and presentation skills, helping them grow their confidence both behind the chair and on stage.
And for the class of 2027, there's plenty to look forward to, with the talented Lesley Jennison stepping into the role of F.A.M.E. Team Leader.
The 2027 F.A.M.E. Team Finals at Salon International
With a coveted place on the 2027 team up for grabs, the pressure was on as the eight finalists stepped into the spotlight to impress a judging panel featuring some of the industry's most respected names.
The panel included Christel Barron-Hough, Lesley Jennison, Andy Smith, Sally Brooks, Marlon Hawkins, Carolyn Chapman, Jayson Gray, Paula Grocock, Adrian Paoluccio and Mimi Kobaysahi, who watched alongside a live audience as the finalists tackled two creative challenges.
First up, the Trends Stage played host to a fast-paced styling challenge, with finalists given just 20 minutes to transform long hair into striking hair-up creations. And they certainly didn't disappoint! From imaginative felt-inspired looks to intricate beaded braids and textured styles, the challenge showcased an impressive mix of creativity, technical ability and individuality.
For Round Two, it was time for the finalists to let their personal style shine. Each was tasked with presenting a two-minute show that brought their vision of hair fashion and future trends to life. Taking centre stage, the finalists talked the judges through their creative concepts, finished looks and the techniques behind them, demonstrating not only their hairdressing skills but also their confidence and presentation abilities.
The result? A fantastic celebration of creativity, artistry and, of course, some seriously incredible hair.
Meet the Eight 2027 F.A.M.E. Team Finalists
The eight talented hairdressers competing for a place on the 2027 F.A.M.E. Team are:
- Christina Thomson – The Little Hair Company
- Joe Sirry – SHAG!
- Marcus Smith – Smith & Co.
- Roman Sys – Roman Sys
- Natalie Stephen – Voi
- Zara Keating – House of Colour
- Harley Mitsinga – Marcella, Margate
- Liberty Hunter – Billi Currie
But who will make the final four? The wait is on, with the 2027 F.A.M.E. Team set to be revealed at the Fellowship for British Hairdressing's 80th Anniversary Luncheon and Awards on 7 December 2026.
Taking place at The Londoner Hotel in Leicester Square, the prestigious event will bring together industry professionals for a celebration of British hairdressing talent, achievements and creativity.
The 2026 F.A.M.E. Team Takes to the HJ Stage
And it wasn't just the 2027 hopefuls showcasing their skills! The current F.A.M.E. Team also took to the HJ Stage, giving the audience a glimpse into their journey and everything they've achieved so far.
Led by Christel Barron-Hough, the 2026 team, made up of Troy Tobias, Olivia Rose Brady, Samantha Byrne and Chelsey Stone, delivered an inspiring presentation celebrating their growth both as individual artists and as a team.
Featuring choppy textures, vibrant colours and intricate styling techniques, the show was a brilliant display of the creativity and technical expertise developed throughout their F.A.M.E. Team experience, offering plenty of inspiration for the audience.
Commenting on the F.A.M.E. Team Finals, Simon Shaw, President of the Fellowship for British Hairdressing, said: “First of all, I want to congratulate this year’s F.A.M.E. Team Finalists – the calibre of talent we’ve seen has been next level. I’m delighted that this incredible event returned to Salon International. The Fellowship for British Hairdressing is the crème de la crème and it’s amazing that we’re able to provide members with a global stage to showcase their talent. All the finalists should be extremely proud of themselves - we now eagerly wait to find out who the 2027 F.A.M.E. Team are at the Fellowship 80th Anniversary Luncheon and Awards in December. Good Luck to you all!”
Lead image credit: Keidi Vaikma
