Connecting and Accelerating
Story by Jarred Stedman: Mocha Group General Manager
Photos by Dan Slaughter
Over 300 L’Oréal Pro Connect members convened at the luxurious Langham hotel on the Gold Coast for a two-day extravaganza of connection, learning, laughter, and growth. This inaugural Australia and New Zealand Pro Connect Business Forum, combined L’Oréal, Kerastase, Redken, Matrix, Pureology, and Biolage, promised an enriching experience for professionals.
The event commenced with early morning Pilates sessions on the beach, setting a refreshing tone for the weekend ahead. The welcome party set the stage for what was to come, followed by the ‘Pro’Chella’ celebrations at the Cali Beach club. However, the true highlights were the insightful sessions led by industry experts.
Kaine Vakai
on TikTok Marketing
Social media sensation Kaine Vakai demystified TikTok marketing, offering practical tips and strategies for leveraging the platform to boost business and personal branding and, salon security
Sophia Hilton:
Eliminating Toxic Environments
Back by popular demand, Hilton shared her extensive research over the past 5 year on toxic work environments and the importance of fostering a positive workplace culture. Especially when talking about the next generation and WHO needs to take responsibility for their growth and success.
Jordan Kidner and Sylvia Stewart : Future Trends in Hair and Beauty
Attendees were treated to a glimpse into the future of the industry, with discussions on upcoming trends, evolving consumer behaviour, and the changing landscape of Hair.
Kellie Li and Sandy: In Salon Shifts
Kelly and Sandy shed light on five key shifts within the salon industry, emphasizing the importance of health, luxury, uniqueness, sustainability, and community engagement.
Plus the launch of two new innovative product by L’Oreal in the K-Scan and the AirPro blow dryer (More to come on these two)
Pete Thompson and Karen Strano: My Hair [ID] App
Introducing the revolutionary My Hair [ID] app, Thompson and Strano showcased how technology is transforming the client-professional interaction, allowing users to visualize hair colour changes in real-time.
Erin Deering
Co-founder of Triangl Swimwear
Deering, known for her success story in building a $45 million business, shared her insights on customer service, and cultivating a true community within a rapidly growing enterprise.
Business Panel
on Contextual Truth
Industry leaders (Helen Owens from Tigerlamb, Brodie Tsiknaris from RokStar salon, Belinda Robb from Biba Salon in Auckland New Zealand, Sam James from SJ Establishment and MC Jarred Stedman from MochaGroup) engaged in a lively discussion on various topics including Creativity vs Business strategies, humanitarian efforts, salon structures, pricing, and innovative cost-saving measures.
Janine Allis:
Lessons from Boost Juice
Entrepreneur Janine Allis captivated the audience with her personal journey to building a multi-million dollar empire, emphasizing the importance of resilience, learning from failures, and authenticity in business.
L’Oreal Pro Chella Party
Pro Chella Party
Enjoying some pool side drinks at the luxurious Cali Beach Club, the ‘Pro Chella’ was filled with Brand Activations, Hands on K-Scan experience, DJ and dance floor, Matrix Ball Pit photo booth, and “Pool side with the Pros” interviews with InStyles Creative Director – Cam Pines, Chatting with everyone about their experience over the conference.
The first Australia and New Zealand Pro Connect Business Forum proved to be a resounding success, offering attendees a unique blend of education, inspiration, and networking opportunities. As the hair industry continues to evolve, events like these serve as invaluable platforms for professionals to be connected, stay ahead of the curve and drive innovation in their respective fields.
