My core values are peace, forgiveness, understanding and growth. My choices are shaped primarily by discipline through this value system. Discipline provides me with the ability to make forward motion in all areas of my life.

I was always competitive with myself growing up because I wanted to prove that I was good enough, lacking confidence as a young child. I didn’t feel seen. I wanted to prove that being an artist was as good as other vocations that my parents and influencers wanted me to pursue. My mom and dad did not approve of my career choice so I supported myself, leaving home by the age of 16 to reach for my dream. I had a strong and creative mind and I put it to use in
resistance to what I was being told.

In 1995, I was building my career and working out regularly. My brother, who was not in great shape at the time, had committed to competing in an Iron Man triathlon and set his sights on the Boston marathon which a runner has to qualify for in an officially timed race. He was trying to do something that seemed out of reach to me and I told him so. On a dare, he challenged me to compete with him in the event. I ran a qualifying marathon in my hometown of London,
Ontario and finished in the top 10% of my age category, beating a time of 3:30. In 1996, I ran the 100th anniversary of the Boston marathon with my older brother and won a medal in the process. The lesson for me was that you could do whatever you put your mind to with ambition, drive and passion, as a marathon runner who has competed in over 100 events, sponsored in part by L’Oréal Professionnel Canada, travelling all over the world. One must have a commitment to action in order to shape their life.

Changing how people saw themselves through my artistry and leadership, I could help build their confidence and improve their self esteem and this process supported my own healing. Touching people physically and emotionally was inspirational in my mission. I would say now to my 16 year old self, you did exactly what you were supposed to do. I learned to forgive for not agreeing and being different. I had to discover my own spiritual journey and be true to myself
despite my parents’ disappointment. I witnessed my faith grow as my practice and family circle grew and peace followed. My core values have shaped my choices, ones that are impactful on those around me by setting an example, defined by disciplined action, leading with intention and heart centred love.

Twenty years into my career as a Hair Artist and Artistic Director, I was at the top of the game. In 2004 I had won two world championships for fashion and hair design in Milan. But in 2005, I was faced with declining health. I became ill at work, fighting sore stomachs, indigestion and burning lungs, despite my attempts in all areas as an athlete to maintain a healthy lifestyle. I was extremely busy with my growing international position and ignored my symptoms. I couldn’t figure out what was causing the issues I was having.

As National Ambassador for L’Oréal Professionnel, I attended a private laboratory testing in 2006 to introduce a newly patented ammonia and perfume free professional hair colour from Europe to Canada. During the time spent out of my studio, my symptoms were greatly reduced. The toxicity in my body was from the industry chemicals that I’d been exposed to which had eluded diagnosis through medical doctors. I needed to make a choice to stay in my chosen career or change altogether. As a single mom of four children this was a massive risk but I knew that I had to change how I worked or I wouldn’t be able to continue. In 2006 I wonHairdresser of the Year award in Las Vegas and it was presented to me by my mentor Vidal Sassoon. Continuing to do what I loved and rebrand as Studio H Artist Group, we opened the first Green Circle Salon concept in London, Ontario. I wanted to create sustainable ambitions.

It was a big leap of faith with investors. I had to match what they put into the project and I threw everything I had financially into the new business. It paid off, improving the health of myself, my team, my clients and the earth. Our culture became one of wellness in every area; air quality, water recycling, scent consciousness, disposable and biodegradable products and tools, conservation of energy and even reduction of noise pollution to name a few.

In 2017 I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. This was my greatest fear as I had watched my larger than life father deteriorate from this devastating disease. This vibrant strong man ended up in a wheelchair before passing away after a five year losing battle. I felt terrified. I received immediate medical intervention which I found toxic to my body. I weaned from the medication under supervision in 2020. I kept my medical situation painfully hidden from everyone in my life and this took an additional toll on my emotional health.

I knew that I needed to take my efforts to the next level. We removed ammonia based hair colours from the Studio and I endorse brands without known carcinogens that contribute to increased incidence of lung and cervical cancers. We created partnerships with my customers to have them return empty bottles and added credits for purchasing refills, promoting a community of upcycling. Today I am instrumental in educating salons and spas on the commitment to engage in a better environment for staff and clients and ultimately the future of our planet. Our business achievements and the changes we were making were recognized. In 2017 we were honoured with the Environmental Leadership award and in 2019, Studio H Artist Group was given the Business Integrity Award by the Better Business Bureau and this was acknowledged by the Ontario House of Commons. This is my marathon now - removing the toxins from the industry so that my daughter and all artists are not exposed to these harmful chemicals and create a better world for our grandchildren.