We’re so inspired by successful talent in the industry, and we love to pick their brains! We chatted to award-winning hair stylist and educator Belinda Keeley all about her career journey and her favourite parts about the hair industry. Read all about her below!
How did your career in hair begin?
My hairdressing journey began in a small country town in regional Victoria; it was an accident that I fell into hairdressing! I got an after-school job in a salon and I absolutely loved it—there was so much energy and great people. I was offered an apprenticeship and thought, ‘imagine how fun this would be as a career’—I can honestly say looking back that I had no idea how many exciting paths the hair industry can take you down. Education, marketing, advertising, PR, owning your own business, fashion shows, travel, TV, social media, and so many more. My career has had limitless avenues for expansion and development!
Tell us about your career journey.
I opened my first salon at 26 years old with my partner (now he’s my husband!). My passion for education came from wanting to grow my salons and lead winning teams. Education is the backbone of any successful salon system, so as the leader of my team I took it upon myself to become an educator. I always had a vision to train my team to be better than me, to give them every opportunity possible to grow and develop.
What has been a top highlight of your career?
There have been so many highlights, but the most outstanding memories have been when my team succeeds on a national platform in the Hair Expo Awards together with the AHFA awards. It is such an honour to mentor and support my team into such accolades. It’s a privilege to have a role in allowing other people to reach their goals and I couldn’t be prouder.
What do you love the most about being part of the hair industry?
The people! I love people, pure and simple. I am so blessed everyday to turn up to my workplace and be surrounded by energetic people.
If you could give your 15-year-old self a piece of advice, what would it be?
I think my values and attributes at 15 were what have set me on the track to where I am now, as I have always had great visions and big goals from a young age. If I had to give my 15-year-old self a piece of advice, I would just reinforce my internal drive to believe, achieve, and trust the process.
Want to start your journey to an incredible career in the hair industry? Check out our hair courses here or apply today for 2021 intakes!
