As part of ProCollective’s Beauty File series, we shine a spotlight on the people behind-the-scenes. From those at the forefront of innovation to savvy beauty entrepreneurs, we speak to experts to learn how they got their start, what their day-to-day involves, and their predictions for what’s next in their field.

Ahead, we speak with Rodney Wayne’s Creative & Education Director, Newton Cook, whose unmistakable drive and passion for hairdressing makes him a formidable force in the industry.

Talk us through your career journey so far. When did you first get into hairdressing?

My first taste of hairdressing was in high school. I would braid and plait my friends’ hair at lunchtime – which led to creating the hair looks for school productions and Stage Challenge. Professionally, it all started after seeing my cousin Jayecee and her friends who also worked at Rodney Wayne, listening to their stories and feeling the joy and social side of being part of that team.

As Rodney Wayne’s Creative & Education Director, what does a typical day for you entail?

I don’t really have a typical day, but I do have a typical week. I usually have two office days to reset and plan what’s coming up. The rest of the week is filled with salon visits, from training apprentices to coaching stylists and managers with the latest techniques and continually providing inspiration for the team. I have regular sessions with L’Oréal Professionnel and GHD to learn about their latest offerings as well as upcoming trends seen internationally. It’s a constant learning journey.

What aspect of your role do you enjoy the most?

As a hairdresser, it’s seeing the effect you can have – giving confidence, making people look great, and feeling on top of the world. And there’s also the social aspect. There’s something special about being in a room with people who are either where you were, where you are, or where you aspire to be.

Throughout your career, what would be some of your key highlights?

Key highlights would definitely include the travel and working backstage with some big national and international brands. Assisting other hair artists backstage is incredibly beneficial, showing you different techniques and ways to achieve the same results, often even better.

What do you attribute your success to in the field of hairstyling?

There isn’t one thing I can attribute my success to because at every stage of my journey, I’ve had support from many different people, including my team, managers, friends, and family. I believe that having the ability to listen first has been a key attribute to my overall success.

Who have been some of your biggest mentors or influences over your successes?

I’ve had some very good mentors throughout my life, including our CEO Julie Evans, who recognized my potential early on in my hairdressing career. My parents have also been major influences, being hardworking and always reminding me to try my best.

How do you stay updated with the latest cut and colour trends and techniques?

Social media is one of the biggest ways to stay on trend. We’re lucky enough to partner with an international brand, L’Oréal, which gives another level of access to what’s trending globally. Additionally, working alongside fashion magazines like Remix, which constantly forecast fashion trends, helps keep the conversation ahead of the curve.

What trends are you vibing the most right now? Are there any styles or colours you think are on their way out?

I’m really vibing fringes at the moment, similar to what Sabrina Carpenter has been rocking. I’m also loving the 60s flick that’s made a comeback. As for colours, I think platinum cool blondes are on their way out. I’m loving seeing sandy golden creamy blondes, which actually suit a lot more skin tones compared to cool ash blondes.

What is your most relied on hairstyling product and/or tool right now?

My most relied-on hairstyling tool right now and always is my hairdryer. My go-to hairdryer is the ghd Helios. It has the classic shape I love, and the results are always quick, smooth, and shiny. Some stylists prefer the lighter dryers, but I think the Helios has the perfect balance.