Schwarzkopf Professional Shaping Futures Initiative Unites Fashion, Education, and Indigenous Communities in Darwin
Written By Editor in Chief of Mocha Group – Louise May
DARWIN, NORTHERN TERRITORY
The Shaping Futures initiative concluded its week-long program in Darwin, Northern Territory, creating a transformative experience for First Nations youth aspiring to enter the hairdressing industry. Through a unique partnership with key community organizations, educational institutions, and local businesses, the initiative sought to provide practical skills, mentorship, and a pathway to brighter futures.
The program was hosted at Charles Darwin University, Palmerston Campus, whose state-of-the- art hairdressing salon facilities served as the perfect environment for participants to hone their craft. The hands-on training was further supported by Hairdressing and Beauty Suppliers of the Northern Territory, who generously provided essential supplies, ensuring students had the tools they needed to succeed.
Participants came from a variety of backgrounds, thanks to the support of Taminmin College, Grassroots Youth Engagement, and the Galinwinku Women’s Space. These organizations played a pivotal role in identifying and facilitating students to attend the program, offering young people from Indigenous and rural communities a chance to learn new skills and engage with the world of hairdressing.
A key reason for hosting the program in Darwin is the strong relationship formed with celebrated First Nations fashion designer Liandra Gaykamangu. Liandra’s deep connections to the local Indigenous communities made Darwin the ideal location for Shaping Futures to engage and empower young people from these regions. Her influence brought
a cultural dimension to the initiative, blending creativity with Indigenous heritage and opening doors for participants from remote and rural areas to access industry opportunities in the Northern Territory.
SCHWARZKOPF PROFESSIONAL VOLUNTEERS:
MENTORSHIP AND INDUSTRY EXPERTISE
A key element of the Shaping Futures program’s success was the dedication and expertise of
the Schwarzkopf Professional volunteers who mentored, trained, and supported students throughout the week. The group of volunteers included Schwarzkopf Professional Educators Paul Kennett and Nicole Turner, Guest Artist Krystle Tokunai, Senior Stylist Isabel Borzi, and Liandra Gaykamangu herself, who provided mentorship and coaching to participants.
The week-long experience kicked off with a meet and greet between the students and their mentors, followed by an intensive 3-day hairdressing workshop. Throughout the workshop, students learned essential hairdressing techniques, with a focus on practical, industry-relevant skills that they can carry forward in their careers. The training culminated in an exciting on-location fashion photoshoot featuring Liandra’s latest ESSENCE collection. Under the guidance of Schwarzkopf Professional Guest Artist and Educators, students were given the opportunity to create the final looks for each model, giving them hands-on experience in delivering professional- level results in a high-pressure environment.
“WE CHOSE DARWIN FOR THIS INITIATIVE NOT ONLY BECAUSE OF ITS VIBRANT COMMUNITY BUT BECAUSE OF OUR PARTNERSHIP
WITH LIANDRA, WHO HAS BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN CONNECTING US WITH FIRST NATIONS YOUTH. IT WAS IMPORTANT TO US TO BRING THIS OPPORTUNITY DIRECTLY TO A REGION WITH STRONG INDIGENOUS TIES,”
said Elizabeth Tran, Marketing Customer Engagement Manager for Schwarzkopf Professional. “By working with Liandra, Charles Darwin University, local suppliers, and community organizations, we were able to offer an experience that was both meaningful and impactful. These young people have gained invaluable skills and confidence, and we are excited to see where their journeys take them.”
The Schwarzkopf Professional volunteers were a pivotal part of the initiative’s success, offering students personalized guidance and insight into the world of professional hairdressing. Their mentorship helped participants build confidence, refine their skills, and complete the program with a clear sense of accomplishment and direction for their future careers.
STRONG PARTNERSHIPS FOR EMPOWERING FIRST NATIONS COMMUNITIES
The Shaping Futures initiative has once again demonstrated its commitment to empowering the next generation of hairdressers through education and community-driven support. The success of this week’s program in Darwin is a testament to the power of collaboration and the potential of young people when given the right opportunities.
THE PARTNERS: THEIR ROLE IN SHAPING FUTURES
Liandra Gaykamangu, the founder of Liandra, is an award-winning Indigenous. Through her work, Liandra champions Indigenous culture and heritage by blending traditional Aboriginal storytelling with modern fashion design. Her collaboration with the Shaping Futures initiative highlights her dedication to empowering First Nations communities by providing Indigenous youth with platforms to engage in creative industries. Her involvement in this program serves as a cultural bridge, encouraging young people to embrace their heritage while pursuing new opportunities in the beauty and fashion sectors.
Charles Darwin University, Palmerston Campus
Charles Darwin University (CDU) has a long-standing commitment to promoting educational opportunities for Indigenous students across the Northern Territory. By offering the use of its Palmerston Campus hairdressing salon for the Shaping Futures initiative, CDU is actively contributing to the development of practical skills for Indigenous and First Nations youth. The university is dedicated to fostering inclusivity, diversity, and providing pathways for Indigenous students to succeed in vocational training and education, particularly in remote and regional areas.
Hairdressing and Beauty Suppliers of the NT
The Hairdressing and Beauty Suppliers of the Northern Territory are committed to supporting the growth of local talent and fostering inclusion within the beauty industry. By providing the essential hairdressing supplies needed for the Shaping Futures program, they play a key role in equipping Indigenous youth with the tools necessary to learn and excel in their craft. Their contribution ensures that aspiring hairdressers from First Nations communities can access industry-standard products and gain practical, hands-on experience.
Taminmin College
Taminmin College serves as a critical educational institution in the Northern Territory, with a strong focus on vocational education and training. The school actively engages with Indigenous communities, ensuring that students from First Nations backgrounds are supported in their educational and career journeys. Taminmin College’s involvement in the Shaping Futures program is part of its broader effort to provide young people with access to industry-specific training, empowering them to pursue careers in hairdressing and other fields.
Grassroots Youth Engagement
Grassroots Youth Engagement is a community-focused organization committed to supporting at-risk and disadvantaged youth, with a particular focus on First Nations communities. By facilitating the participation of Indigenous students in the Shaping Futures initiative, Grassroots Youth Engagement aims to provide these young people with opportunities to learn valuable skills, build confidence, and improve their future career prospects. The organization is dedicated to removing barriers to education and employment for Indigenous youth, promoting social inclusion, and fostering positive outcomes for young people in the region.
Quest Apartment Hotels
Quest Apartment Hotels played a crucial role in the Shaping Futures initiative by providing accommodations for participants throughout the program. Quest’s support aligns with its broader commitment to community engagement, particularly in regional and Indigenous communities. By offering a safe and comfortable space for participants, including those from remote Indigenous areas, Quest helps ensure that students can focus on their training and make the most of the opportunities provided by the program.
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What is Shaping Futures?
Shaping Futures is an international social initiative launched by Schwarzkopf Professional in November 2010. Shaping Futures introduces socially disadvantaged young adults to the craft of hairdressing. The initiative gives them the skills and confidence to unlock their potential and enables them to improve their chances in life. Partnering with our global network of trusted hair professionals, SOS Children’s Villages, Plan International and other NPOs.
