Becca Gustafson recently made her third appearance at the Skills Canada national competition for hairstyling, this time competing in the post-secondary category and winning a bronze medal. The competition was held in Quebec City June 1 to 4.
Gustafson competed in the high school division in both Grade 10 and Grade 12, winning second place in her senior year.
"It was a really great experience," she said. "Even having competed at that level before, it was still exciting."
Gustafson, who works at Chez Perih hair salon in Estevan, attended Richards Beauty College and Esthetics this year, and was the sole hairstyling of the college at competition. Laura Knoblauch of Weyburn also attended, representing the aesthetics aspect of the college.
The competition for Gustafson began with opening ceremonies on Wednesday, June 1. Thursday brought two different tests: first was progressive men's avant garde, which Gustafson described as "really out there, high fashion style." The competition lasted three-and-a-half hours, and was a test of competitors creativity through cut, colour, style and beard design.
Thursday's second test was men's classical bombage, which involved classical cut and style with beard design and lasted two-and-a-half hours.
The second day of competition began with ladies' competition creative style with colour enhancement, which lasted four hours. Gustafson's final test was ladies' competition hair by night with hair pieces and ornamentation. This test required the use of a specified number and length of hair extensions.
Closing ceremonies took place Saturday, June 4.
"It was really great to be able to see the different skill levels of other competitors," said Gustafson. "It was a really rewarding experience for me."
It was also Gustafson's first time visiting Quebec City, and she enjoyed the city and the language.
Also while attending the competition, Gustafson met up with some teachers and students from the Estevan Comprehensive School.
"Mrs. Mack, Mr. Wright and Ms. Johns were there too, and it was nice to see them and to have their support," said Gustafson.
Before attending the Skills competition, Gustafson and Knoblauch held several fundraisers in an effort to help alleviate some of the financial cost of the trip. Gustafson said that she and Knoblauch would both like to thank everyone who attended the fundraisers.
