Winners of the 2025 North American Hairstyling Awards Announced!

Jun 3, 2025

The "Oscars of the Hair World" Celebrates Vision, Innovation and Transformative Artistry

The 36th Annual North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHAs) has named the winners in 15 categories, from Haircolor to Editorial Styling, Barbering to Avant Garde. Sponsored by the Professional Beauty Association (PBA), NAHA attracted nearly 1,700 attendees to the Chapin Theater at Orlando's Orange County Convention Center on June 1.

Show Your True Colors

Embracing the theme "Show Your True Colors," the evening celebrated authenticity, individuality and bold self-expression. This marks the second consecutive year that NAHA has reached sold-out status, underscoring its impact and prestige within the beauty industry.

"NAHA is more than a competition—it's a platform for artists to pause and reflect on their work, their voice, and their impact."

— Leslie Perry, PBA Executive Director

And the Winners Are...

The evening's celebration honored exceptional talent across multiple categories, recognizing artists who push the boundaries of creativity and technical excellence. Each winner represents the pinnacle of achievement in their respective specialty.

Haircolor Award: Breanne Gershon @glam.breanne
Haircutting Award: Evie Johnson @contactevie
Styling and Finishing: Breanne Gershon @glam.breanne
Texture: Vernon François @vernonfrancois

Avant Garde Award: Rusty Phillips @rustyphillips13
Editorial Stylist of the Year: Maggie Semaan @maggiesemaan
Master Hairstylist of the Year: Matthew Morris @matthewmorriscode
Hairstylist of the Year: David Barron @barronslondonsalon

Educator of the Year: Candy Shaw @thebalaylama
Barber of the Year: Carlos Estrella @Los_cut_it
Makeup Artist of the Year: Angela Balbon @mzbartistry
Student Hairstylist of the Year: Allison Dexter @cauldron_of_color

Team of the Year: Cult Salon @cult.salon.co
Inspiring Salon of the Year: Salon27 @salon27az
NAHAMoment: Brooke LeMasters @brookelemastershair

Industry Icon Award

One of the night's most emotional and inspiring moments came with the presentation of the Industry Icon Award to Antoinette Beenders, Senior Vice President Global Artistry at Aveda. This prestigious honor is reserved for those whose influence has profoundly shaped the beauty industry's future.

"The Industry Icon doesn't just set the standard—they redefine what's possible. Through fearless creativity, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to the craft, Antoinette Beenders has ignited inspiration across generations."

— Leslie Perry, PBA Executive Director

Antoinette is a creative force whose career has redefined what it means to be an artist, mentor, and visionary in professional beauty. Her recognition represents decades of innovation and leadership that continue to influence the next generation of beauty professionals.

Your Turn to Shine

Want to compete in next year's NAHA? The opportunity to showcase your artistry and join this prestigious group of winners awaits. NAHA provides a platform for artists to pause and reflect on their work, their voice, and their impact on the beauty industry.