The highlights of akin konizi's career

Akin Konizi had one of the best year's of his career in 2008 - it ended with his winning the most coveted award in hairdressing, HJ's British Hairdresser of the Year.

But his time in hairdressing is proof that there is so much more to the job than most people imagine.

"My career has been full of highlights," says Akin. "I opened my own salon when I was 24, which I absolutely loved doing.

"Then in 2001 I won HJ's British Hairdressing Awards Eastern Hairdresser of the Year and then in 2005 I was extremely proud and honoured to win London Hairdresser of the Year."

In 2007 Akin's run of success continued when he was named Fellowship Hairdresser of the Year. "This completely knocked me off my feet and I was extremely emotional as I did not expect it," says Akin.

But winning HJ's British Hairdresser of the year in 2008 is, to date, the ultimate highlight. "Last year was unbelievable," he says.

"When hob won Artistic Team of the Year it was incredible, but getting the ultimate accolade of British Hairdresser of the Year - well, you can't really beat that!"

So, what ambition can a man that has achieved so much have for the future?

"I am very fortunate and surprised that most of my ambitions have actually been fulfilled.

"I now hope to move forward in 2009 and continue with progressing hob education and the salons, in addition to further developing the franchise element of the business and going on to achieve more success for the group.

"I want to be able to give as much back as I can to the industry, to continue enjoying it and to be a great ambassador for the industry in my year as HJ's British Hairdresser of the Year."