The Future Creatives team sat down with the talented Kat Rodda to find out a little more about her exciting journey, trend predictions and what we can look forward to seeing in her upcoming workshops.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Friendly, Creative and Determined.
Can you tell us a little bit about how your career in the industry started?
My hair journey started when I was 18, I couldn’t find anywhere to take me as an apprentice, so I completed my Certificate II and III at Clip Joint Education. From there I really struggled to find salon work, fast track courses aren’t very widely accepted, so I decide to make my own path. It hasn’t been easy, and I’ve had to do a lot of self-learning, but I have had some amazing guidance along the way. I have poured my heart and soul into creating my own mobile hairdressing business. I truly enjoy the flexibility that operating my own business offers me. I can book the time to be creative around my beautiful clients and even take the time to focus on more learning. From all of my learning I have realised how much I love to share my knowledge and educate, and I am so excited to see where my life and career can take me.
Who are your mentors and how are they helping to shape your career?
I wouldn’t say that I have any personal mentors, I have however been lucky enough to meet, work and communicate with some absolutely amazing people. Including but certainly not limited to Atilio Dusa from Clip Joint, Megan Yabsley from DeLorenzo and Abi Wales. They inspire and drive me to achieve more and I hope that I am able to help inspire someone one day.
What is your favourite thing about working in this industry?
The freedom to make it work for me. I love having the flexibility to work with my amazing clientele, get creative with colours, cuts, and photoshoots and even to continually keep learning more. There will always be a new trend or technique to learn and try.
What are the main lessons you’ve learnt in your career?
To believe in myself and trust what I know! Working for myself as a mobile hairdresser made me think on my feet and continually revisit what I’ve learnt. I used to stress about doing colours and cuts and hope and pray that I’d get it right. I did, but I had to really learn to trust my knowledge and training. That includes admitting to yourself if something needs work and relearning and upskilling where necessary.
What has been your career highlight thus far and do you have a goal for the future?
Definitely being the winner of The Future Creatives 2020, I still have moments where I can’t believe it! I think my biggest goal is to become the best I can be by believing in myself and pushing myself. I also want to get my Trichology certificate because I’m a complete hair nerd!
What are the major hair trends you are seeing at the moment?
Face framing highlights or “The Money Piece” are very popular especially going into summer. Also beautiful blended ombre and shaggy lobs! All low maintenance and easily wearable.
What are your major tips to salons and hairdressers facing the challenges of 2020?
Talk to someone, it has been a tough time for a lot of people, check on anyone and everyone. Part of our role in this industry is helping people to feel their best. We do this by working our magic on the outward appearance. However, we have a unique role to be able to listen and talk to people. Don’t be scared to check if someone is ok, including checking on yourself and listening to your body and mind.
What made you want to be a part of The Future Creatives team?
I guess I have kept my secret identity hidden for too long! By day I service my loveable clientele of elderly, stay-at-home mums and people with disabilities who are unable to reach the salon. By night (or some weekends and carefully selected days booked off) I create hair and make-up for publication, competition or just plain fun! The Future Creatives to me is a way of exploring my own potential of creativity while also inspiring others.
I passionately believe that we can never stop learning, there is always another technique, style or idea just waiting to be explored. I take every opportunity to expand my knowledge and would love to be able to share my passion and knowledge with anyone who will listen. You don’t need lots to achieve big, all you need is some positive like-minded people willing to have some fun.
Can you tell us a little bit about your workshop “The Money Piece”?
The Money Piece is the hottest colour trend for Summer 2020! Perfect for clients who are craving for a seasonal update with minimal upkeep. Multi-dimensional face-framing highlights that add a pop of colour, lifting the complexion and will grow out softly. Keep it simple or make it bold with customisable techniques for this on trend colour service.
Welcome aboard The Future Creatives Kat, we look forward to sharing your ideas, techniques and passion with the Industry!
CREDITS:
Photographer: Dave Leane, @dave_leane
Model: Misschelle, @misschelle.adelaide.model
HMUA: Kat Rodda, @katroddahairandbeauty