“Do what you like and never give up. Don’t do what others are doing.”

Frank Apostolopoulos

Where are you from?

Melbourne, Australia

Title of what you do and if you are aligned with a brand or company.

Creative director and owner of Biba Gertrude St., part of the Biba Salon Group.

Education background (school, salons, self-taught)?

I started with Biba 30 years ago under the founder, Pavlos Divitaris and trained under him and the team of seniors at the time. I constantly travelled to London to train at Sassoons.

What is the first creative project that you remember?

My first creative project when I was very young was a jewellery campaign. It was very exciting, but I was not ready for it somehow. I got away with it, and clients were happy, but I was sweating bullets all day.

What is your signature style/artistic expression of your work?

My signature artistic expression would be raw and natural, structured to last but effortless in its feel, encouraging the natural character of hair and not disguising imperfections.

What is the most fulfilling job you’ve worked on or someone you have worked with?

Out of all the projects, shoots and shows I’ve done, perhaps a show I did in Las Vegas for Wella and bringing my team with me was terrific. But my biggest fulfilment is always the past and present clients behind the chair.

Do you have a career turning point, big break, or person who has helped your career?

The turning point for me would be the first time I won Australian Hairdresser of the Year and all the opportunities that came with it.

What was the scariest and proudest moment in your career?

I don’t think there’s been a scary point, but it’s so satisfying seeing hairdressers who have started with me, and I have trained to see them grow and develop into amazing people and hairdressers.