It can be challenging to get ahead in today’s world as a woman. Even in the salon industry where upwards of 85 percent of the workforce is female, the number of women at the top is still not equal to the number of men. In recognition of this, and also to begin a dialogue on other issues facing women in today’s beauty industry, the first-ever Leading Ladies panel will take place at the Premiere Orlando Beauty Show on June 5 at 12:45 PM on the Main Stage.
The panel will include industry greats Eden Sassoon, Tracey Hughes, Candy Shaw, Sonya Dove and Jenny Strebe, and it will be moderated by Sam Villa. The event is the brainchild of Hughes, who handpicked the panel based upon each woman’s strong commitment to “give back,” both as educators and philanthropists.
“We aim to provide the audience with a raw, emotional, honest and heartfelt look into life on the road and in the limelight. About what it takes to get to the top (and stay there)! And about the quest for that elusive ‘holy grail’ known as ‘balance,’” says Hughes.
The panel will share inspirational stories, challenges and their determination to overcome adversity. “We are excited to offer for the first time this unique and timely program to showcase the powerful Leading Ladies of the beauty industry,” says Howard Britt, President of Premiere Show Group. Admission to Leading Ladies is complimentary and is included in the price of your show ticket.
Eden Sassoon
The daughter of legendary Vidal Sassoon and star of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Eden has an ethos embedded in healthy living, Eden is also a dedicated philanthropist who established the charity Beauty Gives Back.
Tracey Hughes
The worlds’ only Certified Speaking Professional in the beauty industry today, Hughes has been awarded Australian Educator of the Year eight times, and Salon of the Year 10 times. A leading global educator, Hughes has presented to over half a million stylists across 23 countries worldwide.
Candy Shaw
Nicknamed “The Balay Lama,” Shaw is credited with leading the charge of the Balayage Revolution. In addition to running her Academy, Shaw works full time in her 50-station salon. Her three-year-old, all-things-balayage, company is 100-percent woman-owned.
Sonya Dove
An award-winning educator, Dove works in her salon and loves inspiring others with her authentic approach to hair. The First Lady of Color, Dove is a global platform artist for Wella and is the Color Director for the Intercoiffure Color Council.
Jenny Strebe
Known internationally by her Instagram handle, @theconfessionsofahairstylist, Strebe is an internet sensation. She has been voted one of the top hair bloggers, published three hair tutorial books and just released an app to make education accessible to many.
Sam Villa
Villa is known for his down-to-earth refreshing approach to education and his dynamic stage presence. As Global Artistic Ambassador for Redken and an award-winning educator, Villa is the founder of his own brand of styling tools.