This Youth Month, Christel House South Africa proudly celebrates a major milestone in youth development and empowerment. Four young women, two current matric students and two alumni, showcased their exceptional talent at the prestigious Intercoiffure Mondial Hamburg 25 World Congress, a five-day global hairdressing event held in Hamburg, Germany between 30 May and 3 June 2025

Christaylior B. (Mitchell’s Plain) and Chelsea P. (Lotus River), alongside alumni Amy-Lee A. (Manenberg) and Marychan O. (Strandfontein), were selected to attend and participate in this once-in-a-lifetime event.

This marks the first international trip for these students, and it has been a transformative experience.

“I am overwhelmed and overjoyed with this opportunity. With all the amazing support from our mentors and sponsors, the impossible has become possible,” shares Amy-Lee, who is currently pursuing her hairdressing qualification at the College of Cape Town.

The students are all part of the Christel House South Africa Hairdressing Programme, introduced in 2016 via a partnership with Intercoiffure Mondial’s Education for Life initiative. The programme was brought to the school through Ezra Isaacs (Coiffure Ezra Hair and Beauty Salon), Rolf Losken and Jean Witte, who saw the potential in nurturing skilled, confident young professionals from underserved communities.

Two years ago, the students participated in the Queen Charlotte Show in Cape Town, a local showcase that became a turning point in their journey. Their professionalism and flair stood out to Education for Life representatives, who then invited them to participate in a rigorous selection process. Thanks to their incredible talent and determination, four young women were awarded sponsorships to attend the World Congress in Hamburg.

Christel House South Africa extends its heartfelt thanks to Intercoiffure Mondial, Education for Life, Wella Professionals, Goldwell, Schwarzkopf, College of Cape Town, and all the generous partners, sponsors, and mentors who have supported this dream. It is thanks to this investment in Christel House South Africa students and graduates that they have been able to benefit from international exposure, career advancement opportunities, and lifelong inspiration.