Hair and beauty training provider ISA Training is now offering Afro hair training - the first hairdressing apprenticeship of its kind in Wales.
The Ystrad Mynach-based company - which is owned by Educ8 Group - has teamed up with Afro Hair Academy Wales to offer hairdressing apprenticeships in type 4 multi-textured hair and is the first to offer the specialist route.
The fully-funded apprenticeship is a major breakthrough for the industry as salons in Wales previously had to travel to England for Afro hair training.
Learners can train on the job in a salon whether as a new staff member or currently working in a salon.
Training will take place at Afro Hair Academy Wales in Cardiff with owner Joy Djadi teaching level two and level three hairdressing qualifications through ISA Training.
Ms Djadi said: "There are many people within the industry passionate about making a difference, but there has never been a focus on type 4 afro hair. I never gave up my quest that something needed to change. I wanted to shine a spotlight on multi-textured hair as hairdressing has always been predominantly white and Caucasian. Partnered with ISA Training we can make a difference and bring greater diversity to the hair industry."
She added: "I teach and understand growth, texture and the different types of hair, how to handle it and what tools to use. The most important thing is not to be afraid of it. There is a huge demand for this skill in the hair sector. We hope to educate younger generations of hairdressers. It’s important they know some aspects of the different hair types – even if it is just how to wash and blow dry type 4 hair."
The partnership was announced at an event in Cardiff attended by industry, salon owners and Darcey Corria, the first Miss Wales of colour in almost 25 years.
Ms Corria said she will use her reign to raise awareness around diversity as part of her campaign.
She said: "When I was younger I always struggled to find a salon specializing in multi-textured hair so the partnership with ISA Training and Afro Hair Academy is exciting news. No young girl should have to worry that she can’t go to a salon, just like her friends, and have her hair done."
She added: "Through my campaign #Darceyfordiversity I want to help make a difference and show my support for the changes being made to bridge the diversity gap in Wales."
Simone Hawken, qualifications manager at ISA Training, said: "We have been offering hair, beauty and barbering apprenticeships across Wales for almost 25 years. Recognising the skills shortage for type 4 hair, we are proud to be the first provider to offer this specialism, making our hairdressing apprenticeships more diverse and inclusive. It has been a struggle for salons needing training in the past. Now they can access everything they need on their doorstep."
