The CEO Stylist

Winning Australian Hairdresser of the Year with Sam James


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She Won Australian Hairdresser of the Year – Please Welcome Sam James! 

Join Yovanka Loria and Kirsten Harris as they welcome the extraordinary Sam James from SJ Establishment. With an impressive 23-year journey in the hair industry across the UK and Australia, Sam has recently been crowned Australian Hairdresser of the Year at just 36. She takes us through her remarkable career, sharing how she transitioned from an eager 14-year-old apprentice to a celebrated salon owner and a key figure in the global Matrix artistic team. You'll hear about her passion for creating hair collections and the role mentorship has played in her career as Sam provides an unfiltered look at what it takes to excel in a competitive industry.  


The Photoshoot That Cost $30,000 and WON First Place 

Sam reflects on winning and the emotional highs and lows of competing in such prestigious competitions. She talks us through the process of collaborating with photographers, stylists, and makeup artists offering a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges along the way. The ladies also discuss the extensive planning and financial investment involved in bringing a creative vision to life as well as the high standards of Australian photography and why it has gained international acclaim. 


How Does She Do It All? (Spoiler Alert: She Doesn’t – Without Help!)

Balancing professional commitments and personal life is no easy feat, and Sam shares how she manages international campaigns while running a thriving salon (spoiler alert: she doesn’t – without help). The women also discuss the evolving landscape of hairdressing awards, the impact of AI in the industry, and how effective marketing strategies and social media presence can impact your success.  


Why You Should Listen

From the importance of a strong support system to the excitement of planning future endeavours, this conversation with Sam is an inspiring one, that will leave you motivated to pursue your own creative dreams. 


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    Connect with Kirsten
    Visit the website: bdbgroup.com.au


    Connect with Sam
    Visit: sjestablishment.com.au
    Instagram: @sjestablishment

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    The CEO StylistBy Yovanka Loria and Kirsten Harris