Q&A, Amber Daisley Northern Hairdressing Apprentice of the Year
“My biggest piece of advice is to take every opportunity that comes your way throughout your apprenticeship, welcome it with open arms and a positive attitude and you will go far!”
Can you tell us about yourself?
Can you tell us about yourself?
Hi, I’m Amber! I’m located at Envy Salon Tauranga, and I’m passionate about all things hair, especially creating looks that make my clients feel confident, beautiful, and completely themselves. When I’m not in the salon, you’ll find me at reformer Pilates, flowing through a yoga session, or styling one of my many wide-brim fedora hats (I have a bit of an obsession!). I truly love what I do, and I feel grateful every day to connect with amazing people and help them express their personal style.
Why did you choose to become an apprentice?
Growing up, I was always the one styling my friends’ hair at school, dance competitions, and school socials. It was something I naturally gravitated towards because it made me so happy and satisfied.
Many of my family members are hairdressers as well, which I feel has also inspired me to become a hairdresser! I would sit on the salon chair watching them do their job, and I would observe their clients’ faces light up at the end of each appointment. It felt so meaningful, and this has become a part of my ‘why.’
What attracted you to this industry?
What attracted me most towards the industry is the freedom of creativity. Having a hands-on approach is something I love, and seeing hair magazines, fashion colours, and the work that stylists create is something so special and inspiring! The bright colours, the intricate concepts have always got me attracted towards the industry -the creativity is phenomenal!
What’s your favourite skill you’ve mastered during your apprenticeship?
My favourite skill out of everything is the styling aspect! Anything from soft curls, bouncy blow outs, hair ups, editorial work, and intricate braiding has been right up my alley! Styling has been something I have worked hard towards as I feel this is what makes everything come to life!
I have specifically mastered my braiding! Firstly I was self-taught, from the age of 12 years old and now it has turned into something I have mastered and which I am very passionate about!
What advice would you give to someone starting a HITO apprenticeship?
Just do it! Put yourself out there, share your talent, your craft and your interest because it is so worth it. My biggest piece of advice is to take every opportunity that comes your way throughout your apprenticeship, welcome it with open arms and a positive attitude and you will go far! The world is your oyster; I encourage you to truly treasure the journey because it is so worth it!!
What was a memorable moment in your apprenticeship?
My most memorable moment in my apprenticeship would definitely be winning Northern Apprentice of the Year! I have been absolutely over the moon about this massive achievement and I feel so proud! Reflecting on my apprenticeship, I poured my heart into it and it is amazing to see that my hard work is all worth it! Every learning curve, obstacle and win has been nothing but so important and has shaped me to be the stylist I am today!
Who has been your biggest inspiration throughout your apprenticeship journey?
My biggest inspiration throughout my apprenticeship has most definitely been my network.
My family have been my biggest cheerleaders and have supported me throughout everything, they have been someone who I can lean on, I definitely wouldn’t be here today without them!
Also, the Envy Team has been my biggest inspiration! Being able to work alongside some pretty talented stylists is amazing. I look up to each and every one, striving to make them proud! They have taught me so much, it is so motivating to keep learning!
What does being awarded Apprentice of the Year mean to you?
Being apprentice of the year means the world to me!
I am incredibly proud to receive this award, my apprenticeship over the years hasn’t always been easy; it’s taken determination and a lot of hard work to get here. The highs, the lows, the wins, the tears, and everything in between have all made this journey worthwhile. I’ve embraced every opportunity that came my way during this apprenticeship, and each one has helped shape who I am today. Being recognised makes me feel so proud and I am so lucky to say I truly love what I do, I wouldn’t want it any other way!