SHARPEVILLE. – Dumisani Lukhozi has outdone himself, beating seven other contestants and walking away with the title of “2016 Sofn’free HairXpert.”

Lukhozi, who is now the Top black hair stylist states that he is grateful for the opportunity.“I’m passionate about my work, and I hope that my designs in this final stage have inspired a new generation of hair stylists.”

Lukhozi’s winning hairstyles were the best creative interpretation of the grand finale theme: Afrofuturism.Speaking about how he is going to make use of hihs R120 000 grand prize, he says he will open up a new hair salon.

“I want to empower women so that we can make sure there are more young women stylists taking their work seriously.” In addition to the cash prize, he also receives Sofn’free product for his salon for a 12-month period.

The stylists were all tasked with demonstrating an understanding of the different treatments that may be required of them when styling consumers’ hair such as straightening, texturising, moisturising, preventing damage, softening, introducing shine, and treating damaged hair.

“From a technical perspective, above and beyond the creativity, we were looking for a stylist’s ability to blend hair well with the ornaments, hair movement and form,” said head judge, Disce Mmamabolo.  “All design elements had to be balanced, demonstrating a graduation of colour and shape; neatness; concept and criteria understanding,” Mmamabolo concludes.