When I first met Megumi Yamauchi and Saori Hamasaki in LA earlier this year, I had no idea how much our paths would cross. Premiere Anaheim had flown me out to teach education classes – a total dream after my sold-out sessions at Premiere Orlando in 2024, the biggest hair and beauty show in the US. My PR, SLBPR, had also arranged an interview with Ninja International for students at their Tokyo Hair & Beauty School.
It was meant to be a quick interview. But as soon as we sat down, we just clicked – talking non-stop about education, creativity, and culture. By the end of the weekend, the idea of me teaching in Japan had been floated. I assumed that would be sometime in 2026. Six months later, after countless Zooms and a lot of “pinch me” moments, I was boarding a plane to Tokyo.
I’d be working alongside US makeup legend James Vincent – a friend from New York – for the first-ever Global Beauty Fes, created by Megumi, who told me that seeing Premiere Anaheim had inspired her to build her own show in Japan. It’s wild how moments connect across the world.
Day One – Arrival & Cameras Rolling
As soon as Sharon Brigden (SLBPR CEO) and I landed, things kicked off fast. We met our Japanese hosts, James Vincent and his team, and were immediately greeted by a TV crew from Japan’s famous reality show “Why Did You Come to Japan?”
They followed us for two days, filming rehearsals and interviews – and apparently our episode will air in January to over 200,000 viewers. No pressure!
That first night, Sharon and I found a little noodle bar near the hotel. The bowls were the size of our heads, and we both agreed that this trip was going to be something special.
Day Two – Rehearsals for Global Beauty Fes
Pick-up was at 7am (Japan runs on precision timing – I loved that). The “What Are You Doing?” crew were already waiting for us, cameras ready.
We spent the day meeting the incredible team from Ninja International, who instantly felt like family. I met our models, finalised stage timings, prepped products, and even had a kimono fitting. Our interpreter and show host, Ko (@vivakooooh), was amazing – he kept everything running smoothly while translating jokes, instructions, and backstage banter with ease.
Day Three – Show Day at Global Beauty Fes
Showtime!
After an early start and some quick prep, we were on stage for a panel presentation with James, Sharon, Hayoto (who owns salons in Tokyo, LA, and London), and the powerhouse duo Ally and Nanami from Ally Tokyo – two of the most talented stylists I’ve ever met.
I then showcased my vivid colour work, swapping models mid-show with James. The audience reaction was incredible – so much enthusiasm, curiosity, and love for creativity.
Throughout the day I had interviews with OK! Japan and Beauty Terminal, and then a very special traditional tea ceremony dressed in a kimono designed by Ally, with hair by Nanami. It was such a beautiful way to experience Japanese tradition through artistry and modern culture.
We met all the exhibiting brands – again forging links for future partnerships in Japan, the UK and Europe.
That evening we joined James and his team for dinner – brainstorming future collaborations across the US and Japan.
Day Four – Yokohama College
The next morning we were up at 8am and heading to Yokohama College, where I was joined by Ninja’s Mitsuku to assist for prep. I created a lightning-flash vivid look, trialling new Pulp Riot formulations (which I absolutely loved), on our student model – Ko Ishi.
The audience was huge – students, lecturers, and industry guests. Some sat on the floor just to be closer during the demo. I focused on blonding techniques and vivid application, explaining not just how but why colour preparation is everything.
Afterwards, I spent time talking to students about their dreams, education, and goals – it reminded me so much of myself when I started out.
That evening we found a local sushi bar to order some amazing food and then all back to rooms for presentation prep!
Day Five – Shrine Visits & Secret Meetings
We began the day with a visit to the Meiji Shrine in Harajuku – a peaceful, spiritual moment in a city that moves at lightning speed. I took a fortune-telling chopstick that read: Be brave. Have heart. It couldn’t have been more fitting.
Then came two very exciting (and currently secret!) meetings about future projects in Japan and the US – more to be revealed soon.
That evening, the Ninja team surprised me with a night at Disneyland Tokyo. I’m a huge Disney fan, so it was pure magic – laughter, friendship, and a well-deserved dose of fun after such an intense week.
Day Six – Mode Gakuen College
Our final day was at Mode Gakuen College, one of Japan’s most prestigious colleges with sites in Osaka and Nagoya as well as Tokyo.
I prepped my student model, Cocona, with a glass rainbow finish, and when she saw herself, she beamed. The audience was all-female, so my presentation focused on empowerment. I told them: you can have it all – career, family, creativity – but you’ll need to juggle, work hard, and believe in yourself.
This was a more advanced session, so I also taught about social media as a business tool, showing how digital visibility and creative colour can grow your clientele and income. As with Yokohama college we presented our student model with a Diva Atmos 2 Dryer as a thank you.
I was fascinated to learn that Mode Gakuen allows students to combine any subjects they like – even fashion with medicine – and guarantees 100% employment, supporting them financially until they find work. It’s a brilliant system that nurtures creative freedom and real-world success.
We ended the night with dinner at Ukai Tofuya in Shiba, Tokyo – an elegant restaurant at the base of Tokyo Tower. It was easily one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever eaten, and the food was next level.
Day Seven – Farewell Tokyo
Our flight wasn’t until evening, so we had a few hours to explore. We visited Ally Tokyo’s salon, talked about collaborations for next year, grabbed breakfast in Harajuku, and did some last-minute shopping.
As the trip ended, I felt a deep sense of pride. This wasn’t just a career highlight – it was a life highlight.
Reflections – Pushing Limits and Finding Purpose
This trip pushed me to my creative and professional limits. Every presentation was different – one day I was teaching hairdressers, the next I was giving formal talks to brand executives and college directors.
It wasn’t easy – we’d finish dinner at 10pm and go straight back to laptops to refine presentations. Some nights, I walked into my hotel room, dropped my work case, changed clothes, and walked straight back out again. But I wouldn’t change a thing.
I truly believe I created some of my best work in Japan. More importantly, I met people who inspired me as much as I hope I inspired them.
People often tell me I’m “lucky,” but this wasn’t luck. I started with £30, passion, and a dream – no famous friends, no safety net. Every opportunity has been built on hard work, persistence, and belief.
We’re already planning our return visit to Japan in 2026 with more ideas and collaborations. The global stage is incredible, and I’m proud to stand on it – not just for me, but for everyone who’s ever dreamed of turning creativity into a career.
Big thanks to:
Ninja International: Megumi, Karen, Saori, Matsuko, and the incredible team including Haruka in LA.
Ko @vivakooooh – translator, host, MC, and friend
James Vincent @jvincentmakeup and his team, especially Lorcan @lorcansface
And of course, SLBPR @teamslbpr