The Fellowship Academy of Merit and Excellence is an annual initiative supporting hairdressers ready to take the next step in their careers, offering meaningful exposure and a platform for genuine industry growth.
We’ve got the exciting news about who is behind the F.A.M.E team in 2026! Representing diverse backgrounds and career journeys, the team features: Troy Boyd, Oliva-Rose Brady, Samantha Bryne, and Chesley Stone, under the guidance and support of mentor Christel-Barron Hough.
Meet the F.A.M.E team
Troy Boyd, Anthony John Salons
A specialist in cutting, colouring, and styling, Troy works as creative director of Anthony John Salons having also been on the L’Oréal Professional ID Artist Programme and having been a finalist for ‘Salon Stylist of the Year’ at the British Hairdressing Business Awards 2024.
Olivia Rose Brady, The Honey Comb Hair
Olivia represents the very best of what the Fellowship’s Youth Board offers emerging stylists. She was involved in Project X 2024, and supported the 2025 edition. Olivia is the creative director and salon manager of Honey Comb Hair, recognised for her expertise in all things colour.
Samantha Byrne, Vanilla Hair Design
Samantha is the owner of Vanilla Hair Design based in Ireland. She brings a strong background and knowledge to the team specialising in cut, colour, and styling.
She works closely with the Irish Hairdressing Federation and Alfaparf Academy, having also been named ‘Irish Hairdresser of the Year’ in 2019 and a L’Oréal Colour Trophy Finalist.
Chelsey Stone, Chelsey Stone Hair
With over 16 years in the hairdressing industry, she has been developing her skillset and, recognised in Project Colour, Project X and also awarded the Calligraphy Cut Scholarship. Passionate about cutting and dressing hair, and a L’Oreal and Wella colour specialist, she works with bridal hair and hair up.
We will be watching closely as their journey unfolds…
Those interested in joining a future F.A.M.E. team can find more information here.
