MEET THE AHIA 2024 HOTSHOTS WINNER - ADAM HARANT

By Louise May

Adam Harant is a true creative powerhouse in the hairdressing world. From his earliest days, styling his mother’s hair into playful, imaginative designs as a child, Adam’s passion for hair was clear — but what followed was the evolution of an artist who has consistently pushed boundaries and redefined what’s possible in the salon.

Starting out at just 15 years old, Adam quickly immersed himself in the craft, moving from his first job at Lattouf in Hornsby to one of the most exciting chapters of his career: working at Prema in Bondi Junction.

Here, the leap from local to global talent was undeniable. Adam’s thirst for editorial work, runway shows, and all things creative exploded. He craved the rush of high-energy fashion shoots, and it was at Prema that he realised just how limitless the world of hairdressing could be.

London was the next stop, where Adam sharpened his edge at the iconic Pimps and Pinups salon in Spitalfields. The electric, fast-paced city became his playground, as he worked with creatives across the fashion and beauty industries, crafting looks that were bold, fearless, and distinctly his own.

Now, back in Sydney and thriving at Wild Life SoGo, Adam is at the top of his game. As a Premier Stylist and technician, his work with brands like KMS, P.E Nation, and Double Rainbouu continues to elevate his reputation as an industry leader.

Adam’s commitment to pushing creative boundaries, while keeping his technique razor-sharp, is exactly why he’s earned the prestigious title of 2024 AHIA Hot Shots winner.

This is an artist who never stops evolving, and the industry is watching closely to see what he does next.

Editor of Hair Biz Louise May chats with Adam Harant about his incredible journey, creative inspirations, and what it means to be one of the 2024 AHIA Hot Shots winners.

What made you want to be a hairdresser?

It’s just always been that way, for as long as I can remember. I used to find hairdressing mannequins at the secondhand store and take them home and give them a makeover. I found it both relaxing and a creative outlet.

What kind of hairwork is your favourite and why?

I am obsessed with hairstyling and upstyling! I think it’s because it's special and creates a sense of occasion. The client is excited, and they are celebrating or going somewhere special, and I get to share in that excitement with them. I get to hear about the dress or flowers etc, and the up style is just the pinnacle of taking them out of their everyday life and making them really feel glamorous.

How do you manage life and work balance?

A four-day work week. After COVID, I condensed my full-time hours into four days, and it is the best. When I’m working it doesn’t make too much of a difference for me to keep moving and work a longer day.

The real benefit is having the extra day off, so I can prioritise what I want to do; photoshoots, friend catchups, and an entire day cleaning, meanwhile still have two days’ rest.

Who inspires you in the creative field of hairdressing and why?

It changes constantly. But the people I tend to fan girl over are in the world of styling and editorial; Sharon Blain, Lorna Evans, Sarah Laidlaw, Michael Beel, Sam McKnight,

If you could spend a day with anyone from a business or lifestyle mentorship perspective, who would it be and why?

Probably Jo Horgan, because Mecca is my favourite shop.

How important are competitions and awards to you?

Competitions are super important to me but not because of the competitive nature of the event. For me it is an opportunity to create a concept and collection, test myself creatively and express something of myself. You aren’t bound by brand image, normal fashion conventions. Creating a collection for a hair competition is when I truly feel like an artist.

Can you tell us a little about what you are most looking forward to being a member of the Hot Shots team?

In a word: Growing. For the past few years wanted something like this desperately. I’m hoping it will be the catalyst to change and help me push myself into a new stage of my work and creativity.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

Hopefully, in a similar place to where I already am but a little further along. Working in the salon, as well and on shoots and teaching.

Fun Snapshot

Fave Holiday Destination? I’ve just been to Tuscany, and I would go back tomorrow if I could!

Fave Drink? Spicy Margarita or Scotch

Favourite Food/Meal? Pasta, it doesn’t matter what kind.

Favourite Music/Song? Probably Euphoria by Loreen. My husband loves it too, it was our entrance song at our wedding

Who was your Celebrity High-School crush? During high school, I was obsessed with Jared Padalecki from Supernatural lol

If you were not a hairdresser, you would be a…? I think I would probably be teaching Art in a High school or working with plants.

@adamharant