Eight straight years of Queensland Hairdresser of the Year nominations. Five years of Master Cutter of the Year nominations. For Fortitude Valley salon owner Ryan King, the breakthrough came when he claimed two AHIA Creative titles on the same night.
King was named Master Cutter of the Year and Queensland Hairdresser of the Year at the 2026 AHIA Creative Awards after years of nominations in both categories.
The awards marked the result of 18 years spent developing his skills, refining his cutting techniques and building a career in hairdressing.
Years of persistence rewarded
King said the double win carried special meaning after years of being recognised in both award categories before finally securing the titles.
“I have actually been nominated eight years in a row for QLD Hairdresser of the Year and five years for Master Cutter of the Year so to finally take the double out on one night made me very grateful and proud,” he said.
“I’m excited to step up to the titles.”
The AHIA Creative Awards recognise excellence in creative hairdressing across Australia and New Zealand. King’s two titles recognised his cutting work at a national level and his achievements as a Queensland-based hairdresser.
From London training to a Fortitude Valley salon
King began his hairdressing career in London before returning to Australia in 2012. Since then, he has worked with clients, presented on stage and taken part in industry competitions while developing a career centred on haircutting.
Today, he owns Loco London in Fortitude Valley, where he says he has worked to create a creative, warm and professional environment for both his team and clients.
The career his mum encouraged
King did not take the idea of becoming a hairdresser seriously at first. He said it was his mother who encouraged him to consider the profession.
“I was told by my Mum to start hairdressing and I laughed at first, but everything she said it would give me has come true — travel, social life, business and the flexibility that you can do it anywhere,” he said.
Eighteen years later, King says haircutting has become far more than a job. The profession has given him opportunities to travel, build a business and continue improving his skills.
Alongside his work with clients, King has presented haircutting education at industry events and through De Lorenzo education programs, helping other hairdressers develop their technical skills.
Clients shared the journey
King says his clients have supported him throughout his career, making the latest awards even more meaningful.
“My guests have been with me on the whole journey. I hold them so close and as they do me, so we win together and lose together,” he said.
With two AHIA Creative titles beside his name, King says he remains focused on growing Loco London and continuing the relationships he has built with the clients who have supported him along the way.
Published 10-July-2026
