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Jayde Turner-Ledwidge never imagined a career in hairdressing, let alone becoming one of the most sought-after professionals in the industry. Through years of hard work, resilience, and honing her craft, she’s now at the peak of her profession, styling celebrities in the music, entertainment and fashion industries. 

What inspired you to pursue a career in hairdressing?

To be honest, it was never my dream to become a hairdresser. After I left CCGS I went to live with my grandma, Nenn, in Ryde. I saw a job ad in the newspaper that said something like “Interested in fashion? The arts? Travelling? This job is for you!” It didn’t really explain that it was a hairdressing salon, but I knew I was interested in all those things! I did a week trial and got the job without realising it was one Sydney’s best salons, and that I was working with some of the most respected stylists and colourists in Australia.

Can you tell us about your journey from starting out to becoming a well-known and respected figure in the industry?

From that first job, I did my four-year apprenticeship. I learnt to colour, cut and style. I also assisted my boss in many photoshoots for events such as Hairdresser of the Year and Fashion Week. After my apprenticeship, I moved to a smaller salon to work part-time so that I could assist freelance hairdressers who worked on advertising, editorial, tv, event and entertainment work. Almost all this extra work was not paid, so I worked as a bartender part-time to cover the unpaid work I was doing. Slowly over time I became a reliable and skilled assistant, and, in 2011, I was given the role of second in charge to the Hair Director for the tv series X Factor. In between working on tv, I continued freelancing and became a founding freelancer of a salon that was to become one of the best in the country. I’ve also had the opportunity to work at Australian Fashion Week and have since directed hair for three shows. I have already gained so much experience and reached a lot of my career goals. Still waiting to do the cover of Vogue though!

You’ve worked with clients on some amazing projects including music tours, television, and national and international publications, just to name a few. Were there any pivotal moments or challenges that have shaped your career path?

I think my most pivotal moment was when I was asked to direct the hair team for a Channel 10 project produced by Squared Division-the then creative directors for X Factor. I finished the job and got in a cab and the whole car trip I cried hysterically from stress. I was petrified and only 22! From that opportunity, I continued to work on X Factor, then started working on The Voice, which I did for six seasons. For the last three years I’ve been working on Australian Idol, which is wild because its live and your work is on national television.

Is there a particular project or client that stands out as a highlight of your career?

I’ve been very lucky to work with some amazing high-profile people, both in the music and sports industry. But my favourite artist and friend to work with is Samantha (Sammi) Jade. She won X Factor the first year I worked on it. We became good friends through her journey and have been working together for almost 13 years now. During that time, I’ve done her hair for red carpets, record and magazine covers, tours, charity work, an Aria-award winning video clip, among other things. Dani Minogue was another highlight, but Sammi still takes the cake for me.

What is your fondest memory being a student at CCGS?

I made some of my best and oldest friends, many who I still talk to almost every day. We have grown up together and I admire them all. I got a great education that set me up for life. I’m very grateful that my parents worked hard to send me to CCGS. 

Did you have any mentors or teachers who helped guide your path to success?

At CCGS, I’ll always remember Mrs Spence, who was my kindergarten teacher. In my industry my mentors are Philip Barwick, Kristina Russel, Kevin Murphy, Kathy Gilbert, Luana Coscia, Lores Giglio, Torquil Murray, Frankie Endersbee, Jaye Edwards, Byron Turnball and Heidi Scarlett-King. 

How do you stay inspired and creative in such a fast-moving industry?

By following all my peers and international artists in the industry. The constant change in my day-to-day keeps me striving for success in every area of the fashion and entertainment industry. The possibilities are endless with hairdressing, and you can travel the world if you have the right equipment, and the correct power plug adapter for the country you are in!

What are your future goals?

Personally, I would like to have kids, get married and live a happy healthy life with my partner and my almost 2-year-old toy Cavoodle, ‘Flick’. Professionally, I plan to work on New York, London and Milan Fashion Weeks in the next few years and potentially move overseas for a little bit. Ultimately the dream is to work in the film industry. I’m still not sure, will have to see where the wind blows.