Tayla’s talent turns heads

At just 18, the second-year Robina campus student just landed a top-three spot in the national CPR Colours and Products apprentice competition - and she’s only getting started.

“I already have butterflies and I’m not even on stage yet, but I know when I get up there, I’ll feel confident and at home,” said Tayla.

Her entry, “Love is in the Hair,” didn’t just showcase technical skill - it told a story.

“It represents the love I have for what I do every day in the salon,” she said.

The bold look and emotional connection caught the judges’ attention, and soon Tayla will take it live, recreating the style on stage at the Sydney Hair Festival later this month.

“I’m excited, nervous… everything. But this is where I want to be,” she said.

Tayla’s journey started with a simple love for the beauty industry. It became something more the moment she picked up her first set of scissors.

“Once I started my apprenticeship, I fell in love with hairdressing.”

“Hair can take your confidence from a 0 to a 10. I want every client to feel that.”

Tayla credits her success to a mix of support from her employer Ananta Hair and Beauty in Oxenford, and standout training at TAFE Queensland.

“I’ve absolutely loved training at the Robina campus. The teachers are amazing, I’m so glad I get to study there.”

TAFE Queensland hairdressing teacher, Frances Jenkins said Tayla has shown incredible passion and dedication from day one.

“She’s one of those students who not only brings talent to the classroom, but also a real drive to keep growing and learning,” said Frances.

“It’s been amazing to watch her step into the spotlight and represent everything our training stands for.”

“She’s the kind of apprentice who lifts the people around her - always asking questions, pushing herself, and encouraging her classmates,” she said.

“TAFE Queensland is so proud to see her heading to the Hair Festival in Sydney.”

So what’s next for Tayla?

Her dream is to one day own her own salon and inspire the next generation by teaching young people and showing them how she got started.

Her advice for future stylists?

“Jump in headfirst. You won’t regret studying at TAFE Queensland,” said Tayla.