Ruka, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional and Got2B, successfully hosted the Ruka Pro Academy, a groundbreaking event dedicated to redefining textured hair education. Held at Stā Studios, London, from 4-15 October, this seven-day programme bridged traditional hairdressing expertise with trend-forward, client-relevant techniques for textured hair.
The 0-100 Consumer Course and Consumer Styling Course (4-6 October) were tailored to individuals navigating various life stages, from parents caring for their children’s hair to those experiencing postpartum changes, greying, menopause-related hair concerns, and foundational protective styling for beginners. Led by expert trichologists Afope Atoyebi (IAT), Shannel Watson (IAT), Stephanie Sey (IAT), and stylist Shayna Dawes (Braid Bar LDN), these sessions offered science-backed solutions in a safe, engaging environment. A highlight was a young attendee who left inspired to pursue hairstyling, underscoring the Academy’s far-reaching impact.
The Professional Courses (12–15 October) featured hands-on workshops led by top industry experts, including Ayanda Soares (House of Hair UK), Chrissy Bales, Jonathan da Silva Villareal (JDV Hair), and Mary Adekoya (Papachichi Style). Topics ranged from sew-ins and glueless wig finishes to foundational techniques for textured hair and business. Ruka’s Co-Founder, Ugo Agbai, led business fundamentals sessions to empower stylists with tools to grow their careers. Mixer events showcased visionary talks exploring textured hair innovations, emphasising the importance of visibility and education in this often-overlooked market.
“Lack of education when it comes to textured hair has led to poor consumer practices that have contributed to over 1 in 3 women of African descent experiencing hair loss-related issues globally,” said Tendai Moyo, Ruka’s Co-Founder and CEO. “This is what empowering the next generation of beauty entrepreneurs looks like – teaching inter-generationally to make sure that everyone gets the opportunity to learn about their hair and love it.”
Reflecting on the collaboration, the Schwarzkopf Professional and Got2B team stated: “Learnings and collaborations like these are shaping the future of Henkel’s inclusive hair solutions, ensuring we truly cater to every consumer’s needs. The event was a huge success and reinforced our dedication to textured haircare innovation.”
Globally renowned hair and makeup designer Kevin Fortune added: “It’s so great to actually find a brand that does what I need, that has the texture that I need, and I can get the results.”
The Ruka Pro Academy exemplifies Ruka’s commitment to dispelling myths, celebrating textured hair, and equipping the next generation of beauty entrepreneurs with knowledge and confidence. By blending science, creativity, and practical skills, Ruka is setting a new standard for textured haircare.
