The much-anticipated MANE STAGE event took place on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at The Star in Sydney, with over 950 hairdressers and industry members gathering together in Australia’s biggest hair education event in over a decade. 

The event gathered an impressive lineup of over 34 top names from Australia, New Zealand, and around the world, presenting eight dynamic sessions that inspired and motivated attendees. 

An extraordinary blend of education and immersive experiences, attendees were treated to exclusive MANE STAGE Merch bags, valued at over $350, for the first 300 guests through the door. These bags were filled with products from brand partners, setting the tone for an event that celebrated creativity and innovation in the hairdressing community.

Headlined by the legendary Antoinette Beenders for Aveda, sessions kicked off with Evo’s Jules Tognini, Belinda Mills and Nicole Kae transporting us to Destination Evo.

Next up, Redken’s Sheree Knobel, Kaine Vakai, Michael Kelly and Justin Pace took attendees into Redken’s beautiful world of liquid colour. Davroe’s Jordan Robertson and Madison Voloshin brought high-fashion to the stage for their session, divulging their Session Styling secrets and bringing to life some of their boldest editorial work to date.

The next generation of industry talent was celebrated in the FAME Team session, the pinnacle of the FAME Team Journey. The 2024 Team- comprised of Gina Yates, Leanne Kay, Elle Coco and Madison Finn – were joined by Lyndal Salmon and Lauren McCowan for their inspiring session showcasing their garnered skills from their journey as well as reflecting on their highlights from the unforgettable experience. Later, FAME Team alumni from across the program’s run joined them on stage in a celebration of nurturing new talent.

Keeping excitement at an all-time high, FAME Team Sponsors Davroe, Dyson, KEVIN.MURPHY, Jadore Hair Supplies and Excellent Edges provided five massive prizes via Golden Tickets hidden under seats to lucky guests.

Richard Kavanagh took audiences through his game-changing TheHair.App, before Natalie Anne was joined on stage with a stacked guestlist – including Bo Guner, Dom Pelli, Hatem Kassem, Chantelle Spurling, Leah Iimmel, Nicole Taylor, Macy Hamka, Remi Jeffers, Kaine Vakai, Josie Morgan, Aiden Xydis and Kaatya May – for Stop the Scroll, a social media and trends masterclass with some of our biggest social media superstars.

Our International Headliner -Aveda’s Senior Vice President of Global Artistry Antoinette Beenders – finished out the day of education on a high with an awe-inspiring showcase of her legendary work.

The immersive atmosphere extended beyond the main stage, with the foyer bustling with engaging photo opportunities, interactive experiences, and plenty of magic moments. Guests enjoyed elevated seating, refreshing drinks, and delicious snacks to ensure that energy levels remained high throughout the day.

“In all my years in the industry, I’ve never witnessed an education event of this magnitude,” says M Division CEO and Co-Founder David Mannah. “It’s a powerful testament to the incredible brand partners, visionary artists, and dedicated teams who joined forces with M Division to launch the AHFA Weekend with unparalleled energy and excitement.” 

“MANE STAGE 2024 was a phenomenal success, and we’re already in motion to create an even more extraordinary experience for 2025!”

Massive giveaways throughout the FAME Team presentation also meant that attendees had the opportunity to walk away with high value prizes from FAME Team Sponsors Davroe, Dyson, Excellent Edges, Jadore Hair Supplies, and KEVIN.MURPHY. 

Adding to the day’s excitement, social media superstar Sarah Emilia co-hosted the event alongside David Mannah, ensuring that the energy remained high and the fun continued throughout the day.

MANE STAGE 2024 proved to be more than just an education event; it was a unique, all-immersive experience that left participants inspired and ready to elevate their careers in the hairdressing industry.