A huge congratulations to Desiree from Genesis Organic Vegan Salon, who has won Best for Press and was a finalist for Best New Salon at the latest UK Hair and Beauty awards.
When Desiree opened the doors to her salon in January 2020 it became the first sustainable, organic, vegan and inclusive salon in Leicester, England; an incredible achievement in itself. And we were thrilled to welcome her to the Organic Colour Systems family when she decided to stock our colour, care and styling range. But it took belief and determination to get the doors open.
Desiree wanted to combine her passions – caring for people and the planet – into a business. So, she left her HR career, embarked on a journey to become a trichologist and got to work building what would become an award-winning salon.
“I wanted my salon to attract and connect with people involved in the discussion of ecology, sustainability, and how they can transform their lifestyle to the cause” says Desiree.
But her salon venture wasn’t just a response to her passion for sustainability; she was also driven to provide an inclusive salon environment in answer to issues she had faced in the past.
“I couldn’t find a salon in Leicester that provided the haircare needs my hair requires or the education I felt I needed,” says Desiree. “And certainly not one I felt I could visit with my friends from Caucasian or Asian or Indian backgrounds. I found it puzzling that I live in a rather multicultural city, however, the haircare provision was not reflected.”
Desiree believes there are still segregated service providers in the hair industry, which is particularly noticeable if you need technical services.
“You have to visit the right salon for your hair type,” says Desiree. “I couldn’t understand why a white hair salon that has highlight services on their menu couldn’t perform that service on my textured hair.”
And, after extensive research, Desiree realised many other people were having similar difficulties.
“I essentially wanted my salon to be the change I want to see in society today”.
Hence their inclusive environment, with in-depth knowledge-based service provision for all hair types, and salon practices that consider the environment at every turn. Cheers to that Desiree!
Winning the Best for Press award was a unique experience Desiree will never forget. She and her daughters made the effort to get dressed up, order a takeout, open a bottle of Prosecco and pop on some music to celebrate the online lockdown ceremony.
“We were having such a wonderful time. It was an opportunity to get dolled up in lockdown and we loved it. There were so many participants and we were so happy to be celebrating our industry and the winners.”
And then their names popped up on the screen.
“My eldest daughter shouted, ‘Mummy! It’s us!’ Me and my girls hugged and began jumping around totally elated.”
“We were just so happy that we had made an impactful contribution which won us that category,” says Desiree. “It fills me with such joy reliving the moment. We were so thankful to God, the UK Hair and Beauty Awards team and the brands we work with. Without them we could not be the success that we are.”
Desiree says winning this award has uplifted their spirits and given them the confidence to put themselves out there to engage with potential clients and others in the industry through their short academy courses.
“We want to help others in our industry push our standards further, educate people on what we have to offer and encourage others to not be afraid to challenge their processes.”
What an inspiration! Find out more about Genesis Organic Vegan Salon here.
