TRAINING AND ACADEMY
MENTORING THE SKILL FORCE
Yesh Killa, Director, Head Turners Salon & Academy, Kolkata, discusses with Kanishka Ramchandani the importance of customised education that’s designed to curate a skilled workforce.
Head Turners Academy, known for its state-of-the-art facilities and seasoned instructors, is an important part of the brand’s legacy. It offers courses across the categories of hair, skin, makeup and nails.
Yesh Killa, Director, Head Turners Salon & Academy, guides his trainers and students alike in technical expertise with clearly defined career goals, which brings a focussed and skilled workforce to the salon industry in eastern India. In his exclusive interaction, he takes us through his philosophy about education and the measures he is taking to ensure high-quality professional training at his academy.
SHARE A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF HEAD TURNERS SALON & ACADEMY AND ITS APPROACH TO TRAINING.
The name ‘Head Turners’ speaks for itself — symbolizing transformation, both in appearance and in professional growth.
More than just a salon, Head Turners offers a complete experience that fuses high-end hair and beauty services with expert-led professional education.
Our mission is to nurture raw talent and shape it into industry-ready professionals, equipped to lead and innovate in the dynamic beauty and wellness space.
Here’s what sets our educational approach apart:
• Skill-first and skill-focused learning
• Global standards adapted to local needs
• Mentorship and career placement support
• Salon management training for future salon entrepreneurs
WHAT ARE THE KEY COURSES AND CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED AT YOUR ACADEMY?
Head Turners Academy offers a diverse range of courses designed to spark your interest and elevate your skills. Some highlights include:
• Customised curriculum
• Beard designing and shaving techniques
• Salon and business management
They also provide industry-recognised certifications, including:
• London Academy of Professional Training (LAPT)
• Certified Barber Accreditation
• NSDC (National Skill Development Corporation) Certification
WHAT SKILLS DO YOU BELIEVE EVERY ASPIRING HAIRSTYLIST MUST MASTER?
Consultation, technique, product knowledge — all are essential pillars of a strong foundation. However, as a salon owner, I have observed that aspiring hairstylists should also be trained in barbering from the ground up. It’s a salon skill that requires time, practice and precision to master — but one that can open doors to a long, rewarding career in the industry.
TREND-O-METER
Wolf haircut and the Bixie — a chic blend of a bob and pixie — often paired with soft, dimensional shades of blonde. These styles are gaining popularity for their edgy yet wearable appeal, making them a top choice among fashion-forward clients.
HOW HAS HAIR EDUCATION EVOLVED WITH THE RISE OF DIGITAL LEARNING AND SOCIAL MEDIA?
Hair education has come a long way — from traditional learning under a senior hairstylist in a salon to structured training in reputed academies with well-defined curriculums and certifications.
While online short courses gained popularity during and after COVID, the demand for in-person education has resurged, with academies now seeing rapid enrolments.
In today’s world, a strong social media presence is no longer optional — it’s an essential part of client consultation and a key subject in our curriculum. At Head Turners Academy, our first module introduces students to the legacy and values of the brand, followed by an updated second module that focuses on digital media and its critical role in the modern beauty industry.
WHAT IS YOUR VIEW OF THE CURRENT STATE OF THE INDIAN SALON INDUSTRY?
“With seating for four in a space meant for two” — this perfectly captures the reality of the Indian salon industry.
It’s a statement that speaks volumes and answers every question about the challenges we face — from overcrowding and space constraints to the need for smarter, more sustainable salon setups.
WHAT IS THE FUTURE OF HAIR EDUCATION IN INDIA?
To stay competitive, academies must continuously upgrade their infrastructure and incorporate the latest equipment. Additionally, training sessions led by global brand ambassadors play a vital role in elevating the skill set of our team members, exposing them to international techniques and industry trends.