Date: Sunday 24th August 2025
Location: STA Studios, London

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Our debut Braiding Competition celebrated the artistry and innovation of hairstylists in the beauty community. The day brought together 12 talented competitors, 3 celebrity judges, and 70+ attendees for an unforgettable showcase of skill, creativity, and culture.

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Competition Winners

🥇 1st Place: Braid by Fels
🥈 2nd Place: Fortunate Braids
🥉 3rd Place: Casey Styles (Mobile Service)

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Judges

• Dionne Smith - Celebrity Hairstylist 

• Aminata Kamara - International Hairstylist

• Gabriella Anderson - Founder of Braids Gang

The judging criteria focused on technique, creativity, execution, and overall presentation.

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On the Day

The competition floor was alive with energy, as contestants worked under time pressure to create standout braided looks. Between rounds, guests were kept entertained with:

• Music from our incredible DJ

• A live braiding class

• A natural hair care sip-and-paint experience

This mix of education, entertainment, and artistry created an engaging atmosphere for both the audience and contestants.

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Impact & Outcomes

• 100% of contestants who provided feedback rated the event 5 stars for overall experience, communication, and venue.

• Contestants reported a significant boost in confidence, visibility, and business opportunities.

• Example: one stylist saw +195.9% increase in Instagram reach, +154.8% profile activity, and +2.3% follower growth in the week following the event.

• New connections were formed between stylists, judges, and industry guests, sparking potential collaborations and mentorships.

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Contestant Voices

💬 “It was amazing to see judges, stylists, and even strangers admiring my work! This experience has sparked new business ideas and boosted my confidence massively.” — Jessica Noque

💬 “The competition allowed me to step out of my comfort zone. It was amazing — I’d love to see brunches, galas, and networking events in the future.” — Corrinne Holder

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The competition not only celebrated braiding talent but also served as a launchpad for stylists to grow their visibility, client base, and confidence.