Schwarzkopf Professional’s long-standing global charity initiative, Shaping Futures, continues to make a meaningful difference to the lives of disadvantaged young people around the world. The initiative equips them with professional hairdressing skills and the confidence to create brighter futures.
Run in partnership with SOS Children’s Villages, Shaping Futures operates in multiple countries, offering structured training programmes that cover everything from the fundamental theory of hairdressing to hands-on salon skills. This means graduates leave with industry-ready expertise as well as the confidence and ambition to build a career in hairdressing.
Most recently, the programme returned to the Philippines, where 25 students completed the six-week training. Guided by dedicated volunteer hairdressers from around the world, participants learned cutting, styling, theory, and team building. This allowed the students to develop both technical skills and the personal confidence to thrive.
UK hairdresser and Ambassador for Schwarzkopf Professional, Debbie G, one of this year’s volunteers, said, “Being a part of Shaping Futures was such a special experience. The days were always busy and packed with learning and laughter, but what stayed with me most is watching the students grow in confidence and skill. To see them now working in salons and help to support their families is something I’ll never forget. It reminded me why I fell in love with hairdressing in the first place, and how much of a difference we can make when we share what we know.”
Each volunteer self-funds their trip, contributing not only their time and skills but also their personal commitment to helping others. Many graduates go on to secure employment immediately after completing the programme. Allowing them to break the cycles of poverty and inspire change within their communities.
Armando Colucci, a long-time Shaping Futures volunteer and Educator for Schwarzkopf Professional, adds, “I have been part of Shaping Futures since 2012, first in India and, thanks to our beloved Janet Maitland, we brought the programme to the Philippines in 2017. Since then, it has grown into one of the greatest charity events I have ever been part of. Every year fills me with gratitude and joy, knowing the students gain work within the Omorfia Group in the Middle East. Despite challenges, knowing we have changed lives brings me joy every single day.”
As a core part of Schwarzkopf Professional’s ongoing commitment to education and empowerment, Shaping Futures demonstrates the transformative power of the hairdressing industry when knowledge, passion, and purpose come together.
