A College of North West London (CNWL) hairdressing student has reached the finals of a UK-wide competition.
Dikla Sudmi, who is studying for a Level 3 Diploma in Women’s Hairdressing, is one of six finalists in the Avant Garde category at the 2023 Concept Hair Learner of the Year awards taking place at Telford College, Shropshire, on March 23.
The prestigious event gives the next generation of hairdressers and barbers the chance to be recognised for their hard work and skills. Alongside the honour of winning a national competition, the prizes have been donated by sponsors, including L’Oréal Professionnel.
Dikla will be hoping to impress the judges in the Avant Garde – Fantasy Hair section, where students are encouraged to unleash their imagination to create their very own look and ensure their style stands out from the crowd.
A spokesperson from Concept Hair said: “A massive congratulations to everyone who has made it through to this year’s Concept Hair Learner of the Year final! The standard of work has been absolutely incredible, and with over 2000 entries, the judges have had their work cut out to select the final 48 in all categories.
“To all the successful entrants, you should be extremely proud of making it to this stage as the entries have been truly a credit to view.
“We can’t wait to see what you all create at the live final at Telford College — don’t forget to bring your A-game… it’s going to be an awesome day.”
Stephen Davis, Principal of United Colleges Group (UCG), said: “Congratulations to Dikla for reaching the final of such an esteemed competition. Everyone at UCG is extremely proud that one of our students has made it into the latter stages and we wish them well in the final later this month.”
“My experience at College of Northwest London, has been exciting, it has been thrilling and it has been full of opportunities, and we have the tutors that help us whenever we’re in need. We go on educational trips to get a feel for what university life is like. We have the careers advisors that help us on our path, our university path.”
“The facilities here are brilliant. You have range of courses you can study. My teachers in the Performing Arts department have got history in the industry, which is very useful. You get to ask them for advice and actual knowledge from the industry, and take that into your own work within the college also afterwards. ”
“At City of Westminster College, my experience has been the best of all the other colleges I’ve attended. The reason I like CWC is because the teachers make my journey easier with assessment and exams. I’m a Level Two Science student and I enjoy my lessons because most of them are practical, which are helpful for me. I love studying at CWC because you meet people from other countries – all over the world and from all different communities.”
“My favourite thing about studying here has definitely got to be the teachers. They’re really helpful, kind and in the industry, so it’s good.”
“The technical knowledge and hands-on experience gained during my apprenticeship at College of North West London have been invaluable, particularly in understanding site processes, health and safety requirements and the understanding of electrical systems.”
“My experience studying at City of Westminster College has been amazing. It’s been so welcoming; I enjoy it very much because of the staff members we have here. They’re very approachable and I could come to them with any question, and it will be answered straight away. And if I come early for a class, I can use the Learning Resources Centre, I can use the computers, the books, just to continue all my studies outside the classroom time.”
“The training process was seamless. I had good instructors who were very flexible, supporting people of all learning levels. On the last day after our exams, a security company came and did a presentation. We had the opportunity to have an interview afterwards. I told them about my experiences, and they said I would be a good fit. I formally applied for a role and started with the company soon after. Getting into security has opened doors for me. I hope I will continue to take steps up the career ladder.”
“Coming to study at the City of Westminster College was the best decision that I had ever made. The teachers are very accommodating – they help you learn things in a way that might be easier for you to learn. They are very supportive and I think that’s one of the best things about learning here.”
“I was so grateful to have won Apprentice of the Year at the West London Business Awards 2026, I could not have done it without the support my company Size Group and the College of North West London.”
