D&A students shine at AHT UK Final

Three D&A students shone at a national competition, bringing home two gold and one silver medal.

Demonstrating talent and dedication, students from D&A achieved success at the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists (AHT) National Final in Blackpool on Monday, May 13th, 2024. Competing against top talent from across the UK, our students showcased their skills, bringing home the win.

Among the winners, Munaza Kousaqri earned first place in the Face Painting category, demonstrating her creative flair. With her imaginative approach, Melissa Finlayson secured another first place in the Fantasy Total Look category. Carrie Wilson achieved second place in Cut and Blow Dry, highlighting her skills in hairstyling.

Melissa, who has now completed her studies at Dundee & Angus College, is thriving in her role at the Hair Lounge. She hopes to return to the college as a lecturer in the future, sharing her knowledge and passion with new generations of students. Munaza is set to continue her education at D&A, pursuing her Level One Beauty qualification after completing her Fast Track into Beauty course. Meanwhile, Carrie is successfully working as a mobile hairdresser and is looking to rent a chair in a salon. She also aspires to return to the college as a lecturer.

Amy Marina Yeats, Lecturer in Hair, Beauty, & Complementary Therapies, said: “I am so passionate about competition work; it really builds confidence in our competing students. I loved it as a student, and I love it just as much as a lecturer. Watching our students flourish in their competition and college journey fills me with pride and excitement—I still get the same buzz.

“I was recently selected as a member of the AHT committee and assistant to the AHT Scottish Competition Director. This selection makes me more excited about supporting our Hair and Beauty students for future success. D&A - dream and achieve!”

The national recognition follows D&A’s successful hosting of the AHT Scottish Regional Competition at our Kingsway Campus. Over 300 competitors from seven colleges across Scotland displayed their talents in our state-of-the-art Hair & Beauty School. The regional event featured a range of categories, from Fantasy Hairdressing and Bridal Hair Styling to Glamorous Drag Make-Up Style and Caribbean Carnival Themed Hair and Make-Up.

Congratulations to all our students at the AHT National Final.