The L’Oréal Professionnel Style & Colour Trophy – the longest-running hair event in the world – has officially crowned its 2024 Australia and New Zealand winner.

A huge TJ congratulations to Circles of Hair’s Ben Semple, who’s Utopia-inspired creation won acclaim from the illustrious judging panel for its embodiment of freedom, harmony and self-expression. 

“(When my name was called) I felt extremely proud to have achieved something I have worked so hard toward over 12 years, and have been entering since 2018,” explains Ben of the exhilarating moment being crowned ANZ winner of the L’Oréal Professionnel Style & Colour Trophy, in a room filled with friends and peers. “It makes you know it’s all worth pushing yourself.”

In addition to going on to represent Australia and New Zealand on the global L’Oréal Professionnel Style & Colour Trophy stage, Ben was also awarded the opportunity to work on THE JOURNAL’s L’Oréal Professionnel cover shoot alongside mentors Damien Rinaldo and Adriana Marmino of Boris the Cuttery, SA.

How does it feel going from being on stage accepting the title through to working on a covershoot mentored by two industry icons? “It’s a bit surreal,” he says. “All of this hard work is finally coming together, but to be here on set shooting THE JOURNAL Mag cover is definitely a surreal feeling.”

“Shooting this magazine cover and having that experience is an amazing opportunity, plus being on set with the incredible team is so inspiring and such an honour. This was something I’ve been striving toward for so long, and stepping back I am so proud of myself for doing it.”

As reigning ANZ winner, what words of encouragement does Ben have for those considering entering the L’Oréal Professionnel Style & Colour Trophy? “It really gives you the opportunity to push yourself out of just creating commercial looks, and empowers you to be a bit more creative and to grow as an artist.”

Ben also credits his salon, Circles of Hair, and salon owners Sharlene and Jess, for their assistance in empowering him to take out ANZ Winner. Explains Ben, “I am so fortunate to work in an environment whereby the two owners help us put our photo shoots together.”

“They really back us, and whoever wants to push themselves, they’re there fully and put all of their support behind us. We’re always bouncing ideas off each other and everyone’s a part of it.” 

“Winning the 2024 L’Oréal Professionnel Style & Colour Trophy for Australia and New Zealand has been the best experience. I’m so grateful and honoured to be chosen, and I can’t thank all family, friends and the Circles of Hair team enough for being there for me through this entire experience.” 

“Thank you so much L’Oréal Professionnel – I can’t wait to see what we do next!”

We wish Ben luck in finding out if he will compete on the global stage in November!