2024 CURATE WINNER SPOTLIGHT: MAIYA RICE

Under the mentorship of the dynamic duo Kristy Hodgson and Maria Vaughan, Maiya has been equipped with exceptional tools and support, transitioning from an award-winning apprentice to a dedicated and passionate stylist. She has gained invaluable experience working backstage at Australian Fashion Week 2023 and 2024 with Redken, as well as Hair Festival.

With a lifelong dream of teaching and uplifting others, Maiya is committed to acquiring knowledge and skills to inspire the next generation in the industry and gaining as much experience as possible. Her exciting debut at Redken’s Creative Night in Adelaide, where she showcased her own technique to South Australia’s industry leaders, marks just the beginning of her journey.

Here we find out a little bit more about this vibrant fresh talent.

How would you describe yourself Maiya?

I am driven and dedicated, fuelled by my passion for what I do. My obsession with colour inspires me to excel in my craft. My ultimate goal is to become a blonde and colour specialist, as well as an educator. I truly enjoy teaching others and helping them reach their aspirations. Making people happy and bringing their dreams to life is what I love most about this incredible career. There’s nothing better than making others feel good!

What has been your favourite hairdressing experience?

Aside from winning the CURATE Award, my favourite experience has been working backstage at Fashion Week. While I cherish my time in the salon with my beautiful clients, there’s something truly exhilarating about the backstage atmosphere - the energy, thrill, and excitement are unmatched! I thrive on the creativity and the collaborative spirit of working as a team to bring everything together. It’s an unforgettable experience!

Why did you enter the CURATE Awards?

I don’t just want to be a hairdresser. I want to be the best!! I’m so lucky to work with my amazing support at Jarahs and I get access to lots of education and amazing opportunities. When I saw CURATE Awards, I was so excited! I saw this as a chance to really push myself creatively and take the initiative to create something fun by myself as the entry process is so simple. As someone who lives regionally, I think we need to take every industry opportunity we can.

What did you learn through the CURATE experience?

I believe the most valuable aspect of this experience was the creative and logistical planning involved in executing a collection shoot. It was something I had always dreamed of but had felt a little overwhelmed by. Having Justin mentor, us through each step made the process truly transformative. His guidance was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that inspired me to enter my first individual collection for the AHFA Apprentice of the Year 2024. I’m incredibly proud of what I accomplished and thrilled to have been named a Finalist!

What advice would you give to apprentices thinking about entering in 2025?

100% go for it! Honestly, I entered with very little expectation of what would happen but now I realise that as long as you are passionate about what you do, work hard and think about your approach and final result, you are in with a chance to win. And even if you don’t take home an award, it is such a great learning experience and a great opportunity to push yourself out of your comfort zone. You have nothing to lose, but everything to win!

@maiya.jarahshair @curateawards