From Servilles Graduate to salon owner - Kingsley

When did you study at Servilles Academy and what courses did you complete?

I studied at Servilles Academy from 2011 - 2012 and I completed both Salon Support Level 3 and Emerging Stylist Level 4. 

What inspired you to become a hairdresser and why did you choose Servilles Academy? 

To be honest, after completing high school I was on the fence between hairdressing or vet nursing! But then I went for a Sevilles Academy tour and LOVED the openness and all the creativeness. I knew I could grow and express my love for transforming people! Servilles had a business learning side to it as well, which really appealed to me. 

How was your time studying at Servilles Academy and what are some of the skills you learnt that helped grow your career?

I had an INCREDIBLE time! It didn’t feel like I was studying because it was so interesting; from the learning, to the people I met and experiences I was given. The tutors made you believe in yourself even on the HARDEST of days, they were amazing with their knowledge and guidance. This has helped me to this day.

What did you first do after graduation? 

I went to work as a colourist at Servilles Takapuna, then moved to Melbourne to start my career as a fully qualified hairdresser. I was very close to opening up a salon over there in partnership with my then boss, but I wanted to move back to NZ!

Have you always wanted to own your own salon? What made you take the plunge?

Yes! From the beginning of my career, I always wanted to open my own salon. It just takes working for the right person who sees the potential in you and pushes you to do so - my boss in Melbourne did that for me. 

Tell us about the process opening the salon - how long did it take you? From the business plan, to securing a space? 

Opening my own salon has been a long process, from finding the right time within myself to actually putting it together. It’s a MASSIVE commitment mentally and physically that requires support from others, but it is SO worth it. We were in lockdown for some of the process and I was looking for a space with lots of beautiful natural light, so it took me a total of 6 months to secure a space and open. 

What advice do you have for future graduates who want to own their own salon?

The most important advice I wish someone had given me, is to make sure you are working for someone that has YOUR best interests and career at heart when starting out. So many amazing talented people don’t get the time and work put into them and they end up leaving the industry, which I hate! The right mentor will help you grow to your absolute best.

You've now hired the lovely Yasmine (one of our Servilles Academy Hairdressing grads)! What do you look for in your employees and what made her stand out?

I look for someone who wants to grow and constantly better themselves, and that’s the first thing beautiful Yasmine said to me. She is gentle and kind, plus I love how attentive she is and takes in every bit of advice, then grows with it. She is a real team player and is going to be an incredible stylist one day.