HITO apprentices join REDKEN at NZFW for experience of a lifetime

Inspiring the next generation

Richard sat down with Bodi and Rosie before the show to share his inspiring career journey and passion for the industry before mentoring them through their first backstage experience.

With the experience giving them a glimpse into the different places a career in hair can take you, the pair both reflect on the day and the impact it has had on their aspirations for the future.

Bodi Wymer – ASC Salon

“My experience with NZFW was incredible, especially for it being my very first introduction into NZFW I really felt like I belonged in that environment” says Bodi.

Bodi’s favourite part of working with Richard was learning his story and seeing him create the styles “it was so fascinating to watch and learning how he would approach the specific look… being there and observing how he and the others approached the style very much inspired me to go further with my own career” Bodi reflects.

Thinking ahead to the future he says “this experience has really opened my eyes to the fact that there is more to hairdressing then just commercial salon work and there are other areas of work revolving around hair. I do 100% think that this experience has really influenced my future decisions for my career and will definitely step foot into the more editorial realm of hairdressing and further my progressing in not solely commercial salon hairdressing.”

Rosie Walsh – The Avenue

“It was unbelievable – such a cool opportunity and I’m so grateful for the experience! I had so much fun assisting the artists and getting to sit down and chat with Richard was so inspiring. He’s incredibly knowledgeable, and I learned so much from him.” says Rosie.

The experience provided many learnings for Rosie, including “how important teamwork is backstage to bring the desired looks to life. I was really inspired by how Richard encouraged the team and oversaw each style with such precision to ensure quality. I also discovered that I need to use more product than I usually would, and how to adapt each look to suit different hair types, styles, and textures.”

The day left her inspired “I feel really fortunate to have experienced it. It gave me an insight into the world of fashion hairdressing, which is completely different from everyday salon life. The atmosphere and energy were unreal and so contagious!” she says.

Follow NZ Fashion Week on their channels for more inspiration.