Altin Ismaili One Step At A Time

For three years in a row, Altin Ismaili has been a Finalist at Southern Hairdresser of the Year Awards. He cherishes the recognition he has received and advises newcomers to be passionate about the craft, as then it does not feel like work. With Salon India, Altin shares his early years, tribulations and accolades.

- Aradhana V Bhatnagar

Early years

When I was 14, I moved to Greece and worked as a florist, barman and when I was 19, I moved to England. I wanted to give a shot to hairdressing also, so I went for a trial to Marc Antoni. I was successful and so, I started my apprenticeship. As I am more of a creative person, I took to hairdressing immediately. Also, it is a job one can do anywhere in the world.

Mentor and philosophy

I was fortunate to have Bruno Marc Giamattei as my mentor. He is passionate about hairdressing and I love his philosophy of ‘learn, share and love what you do’!

Challenges faced

In the beginning I did not speak English very well and had to concentrate when it came to colour and hair terminologies, but I had a great team to help me.

Current responsibility