John has been in the hairdressing industry for more than 24 years. Before he went into the hairdressing industry he was a professional spray painter and enjoyed riding on my bmx bike.
We asked John how he ended up in the hairdressing industry and what he enjoys most about it.
What is your favorite thing about the Hairdressing Industry? I love that Hairdressing is a very creative career. I like the ideas that hairdressing is always people focused.
What is one of your Hairdressing best moments? Before I started tutoring I working at Kokomo Haircutter in Ponsonby - Doing Celebrities hair! I have been lucky enough to cut Keanu Reeves and Scarlett Johansson's hair. That was a real highlight for me. I enjoyed working on wigs for transvestites, that was interesting.
Who are your Hairdressing Inspirations? Derek Elvy - a brilliant New Zealand Hairdresser from one of Wellington's top salons, Buoy.
I love Patrick Cameron and of course, Jane Wilde.
What do you love most about training up and coming Hairstylists? I love being a mentor and inspiring my students. It's an amazing feeling when you give them the skills they need to become an outstanding Hair Stylist. Another reason why I love my job would be the satisfaction of seeing your students pass and making a change in their lives.
When I am not at the Academy - You will find me ... I love hanging out and spending time with my son. I enjoy relaxing, heading to the Cinema and I do some DJ work on the weekends, which I really enjoy too.
What’s your best advice to someone entering this industry? Be willing to work hard in your classes.
Your heart and soul needs to breathe hairdressing. Never lose your passion, always follow people that inspire you.