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Ponytails with a purpose
It’s not every day you leave work a few ponytails lighter – but that’s exactly what happened for TAFE Queensland Contracts Officer, Jadeen Bird, who recently donated six ponytails of her hair to help others.
The haircut was carried out by third-year Certificate III in Hairdressing (SHB30416) student Holly Prien at the Cairns campus Hair and Beauty Hub.
“I’d been growing my hair for a long time and knew I wanted it to go somewhere it could make a difference,” Jadeen said. “If it can give someone confidence or comfort during a tough time, why wouldn’t I?”
The Cairns campus Hair and Beauty Hub is a Sustainable Salon, part of a network that sends donated ponytails directly to wigmakers and charitable organisations. These donations are turned into wigs for people living with conditions such as alopecia or cancer, or used to help fund other life-changing programs.
TAFE Queensland Hairdressing Teacher Paul Pardini said the initiative was a great example of how training salons could make a real difference.
“It’s wonderful to see our students involved in something so meaningful,” Mr Pardini said. “Not only are they learning valuable technical skills, but they’re also part of a process that has a genuine impact on someone’s life.”
Sustainable Salons also make a big environmental impact, diverting up to 95% of salon materials from landfill and repurposing them to help both people and the planet.
The Cairns Hair & Beauty Training Hub is open to the public, offering a wide range of affordable services delivered by students under the supervision of fully qualified teachers.
From haircuts, colouring, and styling to facials, body treatments, manicures, pedicures, waxing, and tinting, it’s a great way to treat yourself while supporting the next generation of hair and beauty professionals.
Those interested in donating their hair can contact the Cairns campus Hair and Beauty Hub at (07) 4042 2550 or find out more at sustainablesalons.org.