Annie is top of the crops!

The 2011 Clynol Protégé team has been announced following an intense day of judging by a panel of industry experts.

A total of 24 finalists, which included Annie Hindson and Amy Bibb from Lisa Shepherd Sutton Coldfield, were put forward by salon managers at leading Clynol Profile accounts across the UK. As well as skills in cut, colour and styling nominees were chosen for their future growth potential, stage presence, awareness of trends.

As part of their application, each finalist was not only asked to provide a career profile, but also research and summarise key trends for the new season in hair cut and colour, as well as fashion and make-up.

One day, one hour to complete their look, each finalist was asked to create their interpretation of fashion-forward, on-trend style.

Each entry was allowed to colour their models hair prior to the judging, but cutting and styling as well as make-up and outfit styling had to be completed live on the day, observed by the panel.

The finalists were asked to present their looks – as well as an inspiration mood-board. A huge variety of styles were demonstrated, from on-trend crops and bobs in an array of jewel tones, to 1940’s inspired up-do’s and more avant-garde catwalk looks.

After much deliberation, the panel agreed on a final SIX, each of whom were believed to have understood the brief, presented well and most of all created a strong visual look.

We would like to say congratulations to Annie Hindson from Lisa Shepherd Sutton Coldfield Salon who made it through as one of the six Protégé Team members.

Also a big well-done to Amy Bibb – who made it through to the final.

Annie is a stylist at the Lisa Shepherd Sutton Salon, where she completed all of her training having joined the team when she was just 16. She works alongside director of the Lisa Shepherd Sutton Salon, Emma Steven, who is a former Midlands Hairdresser of the Year winner.

Emma said: “I am so proud of Annie for making it through to the Clynol Protégé Team 2011, it is no mean feat competing with so many other talented stylists.

“From the moment she started in the salon I new there was something special about her and now she is one of our busiest graduate stylists. She is one to watch and I am certain this is the first of many awards to come!”

Annie added: “I am absolutely over the moon that I made it through and into the team. To have achieved this so early in my career is something that I am very proud of.”

The team now have the opportunity to develop their skills throughout the year, enjoying top quality training from big name hairdressing stars, taking part in stage work, and photographic sessions.