West Lothian College launched its very first Platinum Pro Competition to showcase creativity, confidence, and technical skills across its hair, beauty, and barbering faculties.
Held on the college campus in Livingston, more than 75 competitors came together to showcase colourful displays of creativity, innovation, and incredible skills.
From sharp barbering skin fades and trending blowouts to red carpet ready hairstyles, glamorous drag makeup, bridal looks, rejuvenating facials, and creative nail art- the standard of work on display was nothing short of excellent.
Judges from across the industry were hugely impressed by the talent and professionalism of the students, describing the competition as “transformational,” “impactful,” and delivering the “wow factor.”
Lee-Ann Walker, Learning and Skills Manager, said: “This was West Lothian College’s first Platinum Pro Competition, and it was a fantastic success and a proud moment for everyone involved. The event provided an exciting platform for our students to showcase their technical skills to local employers and industry experts across a wide range of specialist categories, including manicures, facials, massage, blowdries, precision cutting, hairups, bridal makeup, skin fades, clipper and taper cutting.
“This competition offered an invaluable experience, allowing students to demonstrate the hard work, dedication, and hours of practice they have invested in perfecting their craft. It not only strengthened their confidence but also gave them well-deserved recognition from professionals within the sector.”
Each competition was judged by experienced professionals from the sector, including Barbering Judges Steven Cranston and Ryan O’Neil; Beauty Judges Emma Jane Gould, Gail Bryden, Sarah Pettigrew, Lauren Rimmer, Trisha Brown and Kiera Sharp; MakeUp Artistry Judges Faith Hayes, Carla Holiday and Penny M Stewart; and Hair Judges Erin Kempton, Kiera McKay, Louise Anderson, Megan Neely and Julie Forbes.
“We are incredibly proud of all the students who took part,” she added. “Their creativity, professionalism, and passion truly shone throughout the event, and the positive feedback from judges and employers highlights the strength of talent developing at West Lothian College.”
Hazel Brady, College Principal, said: "This competition was a fantastic celebration of the incredible talent and professionalism of our students. The energy on the day was really inspiring, from the creativity on display to the supportive, vibrant atmosphere that filled every corner of the room. Competitions continue to be embedded in some of our courses to refine technical and vocational skills, as well as enabling students to enhance vital meta skills that help them become more resilient, collaborative and confident team members.
"A huge thank you to all of the industry experts who joined us as judges; their involvement makes an enormous difference, and we appreciate their continued commitment to nurturing the next generation of professionals. We are truly grateful for the time, guidance, and encouragement they continue to give to our students and to the college."