Hairdressers Journal International announces 2026 British Hairdressing Awards Bursary Winner Kayleigh Byrne.
Excited to announce Kayleigh Byrne, stylist at Tribe Salon in Clapham, as the winner of the 2026 British Hairdressing Awards Bursary, brought to you by Hairdressers Journal International and sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional, an initiative designed to help emerging hairdressers break into the British Hairdressing Awards. The #BHABursary has quickly become one of the most exciting opportunities for emerging hairdressers in the UK, providing not only a platform but also invaluable mentorship and industry recognition.
At the start of what promises to be an exciting career, Kayleigh Byrne has already built an impressive reputation within the industry. After moving from Dublin, Ireland to London, she has achieved an extraordinary run of accolades in the past year. Alongside her professional success, Kayleigh has navigated personal challenges that have shaped her creative perspective. She has found confidence and self-expression through hairdressing, using her craft to tell her story and push her artistic boundaries.
Her journey also highlights the wider importance of the hairdressing industry as a career path for young people in the UK. The sector employs over 250,000 people nationwide, with around 70% of the workforce aged under 30. With apprenticeships offering one of the most accessible routes into creative careers without the need for a university degree, initiatives like the #BHABursary play a vital role in supporting the next generation of talent.
Now, as the 2026 #BHABursary winner, Kayleigh will receive a professional photoshoot mentored by Nick Irwin Global Ambassador for Schwarzkopf Professional, the opportunity to create her first British Hairdressing Awards collection, and two tickets to attend the prestigious awards ceremony.
Kayleigh Byrne, winner of the BHA Bursary 2026 explained: “Winning the BHA bursary has truly left me lost for words. For a long time, I didn’t believe I was good enough to showcase my own work. I lacked confidence and wasn’t sure how to take risks. Over the past year, I’ve learned how important it is to step outside my comfort zone and tell my own story. Entering competitions like this not only expands your knowledge of the hair industry but also helps you discover who you are.”
Her success represents exactly what the #BHABursary was created to champion: opening doors for ambitious Stylists, who wouldn’t necessarily have access and means to create a collection on their own with the talent and determination to take their creativity to the next level.
Mark Moloney Managing Director of British Hairdressing Awards, explained: “Kayleigh’s journey is a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination that exists within the next generation of hairdressers. The #BHABursary was created to open doors for emerging talent, and Kayleigh embodies everything this initiative stands for - creativity, passion and perseverance. We’re incredibly proud to support her as she takes this exciting next step onto the British Hairdressing Awards stage.”
Mert Eren, General Manager for Henkel Consumer Brands Hair Professional UK & Ireland at Schwarzkopf Professional, added: “At Schwarzkopf Professional, we are committed to championing the future of hairdressing by nurturing new talent and providing meaningful opportunities for growth. Kayleigh’s story is a testament to the transformative power of our industry. We’re delighted to support her journey through the #BHABursary and look forward to seeing her creative vision come to life.”
Kayleigh’s winning collection will be created later this year and submitted to the 2026 British Hairdressing Awards, where she will have the opportunity to compete alongside some of the industry’s most celebrated names.
With entries for the next #BHABursary opening soon, Kayleigh’s story is set to inspire a new generation of stylists to take their first step onto the biggest stage in British hairdressing.