Jason Fassbender has been named the 2017 Australian Hairdresser of the Year at the Schwarzkopf Professional Hair Expo Awards Gala in Sydney tonight, the first time a South Australian hairdresser has taken out the title in the 32-year history of the awards.
A Creative Director at Parlour Hair Unley salon in Adelaide, Jason’s winning photographic collection was strongly inspired by fashion and individuality.
“Winning the Australian Hairdresser of the Year award feels totally unbelievable, I didn't even think I would be a finalist, let alone win it,” said Jason. “Hopefully it will open up a lot of opportunities for me and I'm really looking forward to promoting the industry and helping to highlight the work that we do.”
The 2017 Schwarzkopf Professional Hair Expo New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year award went once again to Danny Pato of D&M Hair Design in Ponsonby, Auckland, who also took out the title in 2016.
“I've been a hairdresser for over 20 years – this is my second year winning this award and I'm just so grateful to be doing what I love and to be recognised by iconic people in the industry,” said Danny.
The pinnacle celebration of Hair Expo Australia, the coveted Hair Expo Awards have been elevating the hair industry for more than 30 years by recognising and celebrating excellence in creative vision, advanced technical skill, and business acumen – the complete picture of what exceptional hairdressing is.
The competition for the 2017 awards was tough, with a huge 40 per cent increase in entries from 2016. In May, 107 finalists were announced across 18 creative and business categories, chosen by a judging panel of 12 international and 12 local judges, representing some of the most celebrated names in hair and media from Australasia and across the globe.
More than 1000 hair professionals gathered to hear 20 winners announced at the lavish awards gala, hosted by The Bachelor’s Osher Günsberg and held this year in the Grand Ballroom of the ICC Sydney. As well crowning the winners of the 18 existing categories judged prior to the event, the additional categories of People’s Choice and the Hall of Fame Award are also presented on the night.
“Jason has been chosen for his achievements both in creative vision and leadership in the industry, making him a comprehensive ambassador for this multifaceted profession”, said Julia Erben, Event Director for Hair Expo Australia. “The heritage of the Hair Expo Awards is to entice participants to be the best they can be, and our winners tonight are a true testimony to this demanding challenge. During their extraordinary careers, they have not only demonstrated all-inspiring creative vision, but have also encouraged and educated countless peers, securing the future of our industry,” added Julia.
“Big congratulations to all the finalists and winners! Your talent and passion for the craft of hairdressing is truly inspiring and so important for the industry we all love. As the Hair Expo Award Sponsor, Schwarzkopf Professional is very proud to partner with you by providing the platform you deserve. Congratulations also to our ambassadors and the Schwarzkopf Professional Technical Team – what a great Essential Looks show,” said David Hahn, General Manager of Schwarzkopf Professional ANZ.
Hair Expo Australia takes place annually over the Queen’s Birthday weekend and brings together thousands of hair industry professionals for three days of trend showcases, world-class education and Australasia’s largest hair show performances, leading it to be known as ‘The Festival of Hair.’
