She’s passionate about providing them with the skills and confidence to succeed.
Published:Marlene Lamont, owner of Urban Hair & Beauty and Project Extend Leader for the Fellowship for British Hairdressing, believes mentoring young professionals is one of the most rewarding aspects of her career.
Recognising the challenges facing those entering the industry, Marlene is passionate about inspiring the next generation to choose hairdressing and providing them with the skills and confidence to succeed.
“Young people haven’t had it easy,” says Marlene. “Life milestones have been overshadowed by so much, and the job market has never been more competitive.
Inspiring the next generation to pursue hairdressing and sharing my knowledge has always been a priority.”
Mentoring apprentices has also had a positive impact on her salon. Many of Urban Hair & Beauty’s current stylists began their careers under her guidance and have progressed into graduate stylists within the business.
One team member says: “I’m so grateful to Marlene for investing in me as a young person. She continues to inspire me to push beyond my comfort zone, and I really appreciate the hands-on support I’ve received while working at Urban Hair & Beauty.”
Alongside supporting the day-to-day running of the salon, apprentices gain invaluable experience working with clients in a real salon environment. Marlene believes every opportunity can become a learning experience, helping her team develop both technical ability and essential life skills.
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Away from the salon, Marlene mentors emerging talent through her role as Project Extend Leader with the Fellowship for British Hairdressing, helping young hairdressers develop their technical skills while encouraging creativity and confidence.
“I always celebrate the small wins,” she says. “It’s so important that young people know their progress hasn’t gone unnoticed.”
Building industry connections is another key part of her mentoring philosophy. By encouraging students to collaborate with peers and established professionals, she hopes to help create a stronger, more supportive industry for future generations.
“I see mentorship as a two-way street,” Marlene explains. “I share my experience, but I’m constantly learning too.
My students help create a supportive, inclusive community that I’m proud to be part of.”
For those looking to progress their careers, Marlene’s advice is simple: step outside your comfort zone and embrace new opportunities.
“The Fellowship for British Hairdressing is a fantastic place to start. It exists to empower, support and inspire hairdressers at every stage of their career, and it’s one of the best ways to build your skills, confidence and industry network.”
For more info follow @marlenelamont Instagram, or book a spot at the Urban Hair & Beauty Training Academy.
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