Last month we brought you Goldwell Global ambassador Beverly C to impart her knowledge of the Goldwell Color Zoom competition. Now, we’ve been talking to 2015 Gold New Talent winner, Natalie Cara-Jones, see what she thinks it takes to shine this time around. 

Why is it important to enter competitions? 

For me, entering competitions plays a big role in the development of your techniques, ideas and confidence in the hairdressing industry. They help you learn from any mistakes and develop your creativity further.

What makes Goldwell Color Zoom so good?

It’s an amazing competition to enter and taking home Gold not only ends with a trophy but a three year involvement in the development stages of future competitions. This is an incredible opportunity that I’ve never known elsewhere.

You took home Gold yourself in 2015. Tell us about your winning look?

My winning look was based on the genre Traditional Rebels. It had a twist from the past and I gave it a modern take. This was relayed in both clothing and the model’s hairstyle.

What do you think you did that made you stand out from the crowd?

For me the key aspect is keeping it to the genre; keeping it simple but still striking.

How did it feel to win?

It was such an overwhelming feeling to win in the UK and then globally too. It was the best moment in my career to date and will still keep me pushing myself further.

What would you say to someone else thinking about entering?

Plenty of prep and research, stick to the criteria, don’t overthink it and let your imagination run.

How have you used your win to progress your career?

Since winning I’ve moved salons and towns to be more involved in the hairdressing industry, whether it be photo shoots, hair events or further training. You’ll never know everything so there’s always room for new ideas and techniques.