The Professional Beauty Association (PBA) unveiled the winners of the 36th Annual North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA) at the Chapin Theater in Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center on June 1st. PBA is, of course, the platform for excellence — home to NAHA, the Beacon Student Program, and the Executive Summit — and the catalyst for change, strengthening businesses and supporting beauty professionals in times of crisis through its PBA Disaster Relief Fund and other charitable programs. Embracing the theme “Show Your True Colors,” the industry’s biggest evening celebrated authenticity, individuality, and bold self-expression.
Co-hosted by PBA’s executive director Leslie Perry and last year’s NAHA Educator of the Year, Keya Neal, this year’s awards show was sold-out, for the second year in a row, indicating its continued impact and importance. On NAHA, Perry said, “[it] is more than a competition — it’s a platform for artists to pause and reflect on their work, their voice, and their impact.” She added, “NAHA is the one time in licensed professionals’ career where they get to step out of the everyday hustle and ask: Who am I as an artist? What do I want my work to say? What does it mean?”
The night spotlighted excellence across categories from Haircolor to Editorial Styling, Barbering to Avant Garde. Each of the finalists brought extraordinary creativity to their collections, and the winners truly transcended expectations — delivering work that was both inspiring and groundbreaking. Read on for the winners by category and more!
Avant Garde Award
Barber of the Year
Editorial Stylist of the Year
Educator of the Year
Haircolor Award
Haircutting Award
Hairstylist of the Year
Inspiring Salon of the Year
Makeup Artist of the Year
Master Hairstylist of the Year
NAHAMoment
Student Hairstylist of the Year
Styling and Finishing Award
Team of the Year
Texture Award
One of the night’s most emotional and inspiring moments came with the presentation of the Industry Icon Award — a prestigious honor reserved for those whose influence has profoundly shaped the beauty industry’s future. This year, the award was presented to the legendary Antoinette Beenders, Senior Vice President Global Artistry at Aveda. Antoinette is a creative force whose career has redefined what it means to be an artist, mentor, and visionary in professional beauty. “The Industry Icon doesn’t just set the standard — they redefine what’s possible,” said Perry. “Through fearless creativity, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to the craft, Antoinette Beenders has ignited inspiration across generations.”
The PBA extends heartfelt thanks to our generous sponsors, whose partnership and support are instrumental in making NAHA 2025 a reality. Their commitment to innovation, education, and community fuels the artistry and excellence celebrated on this unforgettable night.
PBA is proud to be supported by a stellar lineup of industry leaders and change makers, including: Amika, Aloxxi, Aveda, Biolage, Denman Professional, Dyson, JCPenney, Goldwell, L’Oreal Professional Products, Matrix, milk_shake, Mizani, Moroccanoil, My Salon Suite, OLAPLEX, Paul Mitchell, Pure Brazilian, Pureology, Redken, Schwarzkopf, Solano, The Texture of Change, and Ulta. Together, they help elevate the beauty industry and empower professionals to thrive.
