At 32, Faheem Ahmad has carved quite a niche for himself. He’s been with the upmarket Korum Salon for over a year and his illustrious client list already boasts of names like the famous music maestro, Amaan Ali Khan and actor Siddharth Malhotra. Ahmad’s driving force has been the appreciation he has received from each one of them
family support
Like any other teenager, I, too, faced a hard time choosing a career path. At that time, it seemed no less than a jigsaw puzzle! However parental guidance and support helped me make a choice. I developed persistence and determination, which alone I believe, are omnipotent and have helped me land a career option where talent and skills are appreciated. In my growing years, my father, Aleem Ahmad, who is a hairstylist in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, urged me to stay focused in life and boosted my confidence in assisting him. Initially I wasn’t interested in working with him, but my thinking pattern changed over a period of a few days.
education and training
I studied upto class XII and came to Delhi in 2002. I took up a course in Basic Hairstyling at the L’Oréal Academy in South Extension-II. Then I joined Keune Salon as Hairstylist under the able guidance of Edwin, a Senior Hairstylist. I had on the job training and I continued working for nine years at Keune Salon. Later, I did Advanced Colours training from Toni&Guy. I also taught at the Keune Salon and Academy for one and a half years.
success mantra
Introspection of one’s own abilities is beneficial in materialising dreams. We should not be disheartened thinking about what lies ahead, but do our best to shape our lives ourself. I have been in the industry for more than 13 years now and the learning is on-going. We should not stagnate and instead keep ourselves on the toes.
views on hair industry
The salon industry has a lot of potential which I realised after my first job. We can mix fashion ideas, latest trends to style even an ordinary looking person. Though in India at present there is a dearth of education in the salon industry. However, excellent international academies are coming up. What we require is to follow the international format and standards to be at par with hairstylists abroad.
advice to beginners
It’s important is to be passionate. Love your work and practice a lot. The desire to learn can take you to great heights. One can start working in a salon, whether big or small, and be a helping hand. Lend your services to them, this way you will learn. Keep the pace with the changing trends and you will climb the ladder of success. This is a creative field and learning happens till our last breath. Lots of people have an interest in the field, but unfortunately, lack of proper finances prove to be a major deterent. I feel one should lookout for every opportunity as learning comes from every nook and corner. Always have an analytical bent of mind and be a recipient of knowledge. And, most importantly, take plenty of initiatives!
future endeavours
My present workplace, Korum Salon, is increasingly becoming successful and I am happy to be a part of this venture.
would love to style
Arjun Rampal!
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