Hair industry competitions explained: talentspotting

What is Talentspotting?
Run by L'Oréal Professionnel, Talentspotting is a competition for hairdressers under the age of 25, where they're judged not only on their technical skills but also on their ability to bring an idea to life and present a show onstage. The idea behind it is to promote and nurture fresh young talent in the industry. There are two categories: Individual and Art Team.
What's the judging process?
In the first round, entrants submit a mood board, outlining the inspiration behind their ideas. Shortlisted contestants then go through to the semi-finals where they give live presentations onstage before a panel of judges and have the chance to work with a top industry mentor. At the Grand Final stage, the selected candidates present a live show and explain the ideas behind their work at a top London hotel.
Who are the judges?
Previous judges have included Trevor Sorbie, Errol Douglas, Sacha Mascolo-Tarbuck and Andrew Barton, among many others.
What are the prizes?
The overall individual category winner gets a wealth of prizes including a photo shoot directed by a leading industry name, £1,000 worth of education courses at the L'Oréal International Academy and opportunities galore. The Art Team winners also get a photo shoot plus the chance to assist hair teams backstage at the L'Oréal Professional Colour Trophy Grand Final, and salon membership to the Fellowship for British Hairdressing.
How can people enter?
Visit www.lorealprofessionneltalentspotting.com to download an entry form and find out all about the competition, or call 020 8762 4193 for details.
L'Oréal Professionnel Talentspotting 2007