Proud moments were shared at Patrick Gildea Hairdressing this week to celebrate the graduation of new stylists Bronagh Willoughby and Megan Carson.

The theme of the evening was ‘Something inside so strong’ in celebration of the dedication, strength and focus shown by the duo from day one.

Bronagh and Megan, two talented young hairdressers, started off as apprentices at the PGH Centre of Excellence in Letterkenny. Over the years, they progressed as New Generation stylists to build up a loyal client base while studying for some of the most intense exams in the industry.

The long days and journeys to Dublin paid off when they both passed the Master Colour Programme with flying colours, gaining Wella Professionals’ highest accreditation in colour.

The Patrick Gildea Hairdressing team celebrates Megan and Bronagh’s graduation

Now Master Colour Experts, Bronagh and Megan used their skills to create a showcase of their work for a passing out parade on Monday evening. Applauded by their salon team and their families, the girls presented three individual looks demonstrating their colour and styling flair.

Bronagh and Megan took time to reflect on their rewarding year on the Master Colour Programme and credited their colleagues at PGH for all the support and advice along the way.

Megan Carson, Siobhan Russell, Patrick Gildea and Bronagh Willoughby

Bronagh’s showcase at Patrick Gildea Hairdressing

Irish Hairdressing Federation Icon Patrick Gildea congratulated the new stylists on all of their hard work. From the anxious moments of first picking up the scissors, to becoming Master Colour Experts, he said the journey to becoming a hairdresser is hugely challenging but hugely rewarding for those with the creative talent and strength to reach their goals.

“We love education” is the motto of Patrick Gildea Hairdressing, where staff engage in workshops, boot camps and in-house training regularly to maintain cutting-edge skills and industry knowledge.

Bronagh Willoughby with her showcase models

Megan Carson with her showcase models

It’s been a momentous summer for Patrick Gildea Hairdressing. The salon scooped the award for “The Best Hair Salon in Ulster 2023” by Ireland’s leading Celebrity Magazine RSVP. Team member Siobhan Russell was also crowned the Best Colourist in Ulster 2023.

Well done everyone!

Megan Carson with her partner Corey Gallagher Lynch and family

Bronagh Willoughby with her partner Gavin McBride and family

Staff of the PGH team in the ‘frow’ of the in-salon showcase

Myself and the two stylists who have been taking care of my own hair this year!

Anita, Victoria and Anita