“From Cosplay to Competition: NAHA 2026”

Cosplay. Color. Chaos (the fun kind). Turning fantasy hair into award-worthy art.

Hi friends, fam, and fabulous strangers!

I’m Whitney Lewis, a soon-to-be graduate of Aveda Institute Tucson. Over the past year, I’ve discovered that hairstyling is more than just technique- it’s a way to tell stories, to spark confidence, and to bring a little fantasy into reality. With a passion for hairstyling that blends technical skills, bold creativity, and a love for cosplay and fantasy-inspired designs that prove hair isn’t just style, it’s an art form. It’s a way to bring characters to life, to capture fantasy, and to give people that main character energy we all deserve. where every detail matters and imagination has no limits it can make someone feel like the hero, the villain, or the star of their own adventure.

Now, I’m ready for my next chapter: competing in the North American Hairstyling Awards for Student of the year (NAHA) 2026. This competition is one of the most prestigious in our industry—a stage where artistry, innovation, and vision meet. This is an incredible opportunity to share my creativity with a wider audience, while continuing to grow and refine my craft.

The submission deadline is October 21, 2025, so I’m racing the clock faster than a stylist at a wedding party blowout.

Your support will go towards:

-Professional Photographer fee

- Professional Make-up artist

- Professional Stylist

-Models

- Competition registration fees for myself and my make-up artists

- Headshots for myself and make-up artist

- Professional photoshoots

-Hair supplies

-Hair tools/ not provided by school in kit

-travel to competition location in 2026/ tickets to show.

- And everything else that goes into preparing for this unforgettable experience.

Every contribution—big or small—helps me take this dream from the salon chair to the competition stage. Thank you for supporting me on this journey—from Tucson to the national stage. Together, let’s make NAHA 2026 a shear delight.