Competition winner starts hairdressing course

Ipswich woman Jessica O’Sullivan has been given a great opportunity to take a new direction in her life.

Jess,21, is the winner of the Ipswich Star and EADT competition, in conjunction with the Alan d Education Hairdressing Academy in Ipswich, to train as a hairstylist.

Monday was her first day of what will be 20 weeks of intensive training.

Jess O’Sullivan said: “I am really excited. It is a great opportunity. I am definitely pleased to get the chance. I feel lucky to have won.”

The former pupil at Copleston and Northgate High Schools then went on to Suffolk College and studied beauty therapy.

“But I found it difficult finding a job.”

Instead she has been working in retail for the Co-op.

“I am really interested in hair fashion. I dye my own hair and get it cut in town.

“I think I have been dyeing my hair since I was 12. It has been every colour.

“My mum, Sue, is really proud of me. I am looking foward to when she wants me to do her hair.

“My relations, and customers from the Co-op, have all said I can do their hair for them!”

Jess’ hobbies include photography, so she will be well-placed for taking pictures of her hair styles for her portfolio, as her career progresses.

Alan d Education director Edward Hemmings said they were pleased to have another competition winner.

“It was very successful last time and we were really excited to offer it again.

“We had more than treble the entries this time which made it very tough to find the right person.

“The person we have chosen we felt we could offer a life changing opportunity.

“We are really pleased.”

The academy prides itself on producing newly qualified hairdressers who are ready to earn a living in the profession.

There are Alan D academies in Ipswich and London.

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