The Fellowship Creative XChange™: Building Local Communities and Inspiring Creativity
In March, The Fellowship for British Hairdressing launched its innovative new platform sharing events, the Fellowship Creative XChange™, in Knutsford, Doncaster, and Glasgow. This exciting initiative aims to bring together hairdressing and barbering professionals across the UK, offering a space for collaboration, inspiration, and education.
Designed to cover all aspects of the industry—from traditional techniques to contemporary cutting, styling, color, and barbering across all hair types—the Creative XChange™ events foster stronger creative communities and establish local educational learning hubs. They also encourage professionals to join the Fellowship and apply for its bespoke education projects.
Knutsford Creative XChange™: The Beginning
The first Creative XChange™ event took place at Benny & Co. in Knutsford, the salon led by ClubStar Art Team 2023/24 Leader Jamie Benny. The evening focused on creative styling, featuring showcases by Jamie Benny, Luke Roberts, and Charles Rose.
Attendee Emma Mulvihill shared her thoughts: “What a fantastic idea, allowing creatives to get together and collaborate, share ideas, learn, and grow in a relaxed environment. I really enjoyed connecting with others in my industry and would love to see more of these events popping up, especially in the North.”
Doncaster Creative XChange™: A Showcase of Yorkshire Talent
Next in the line-up was Doncaster’s Creative XChange™, held at HoneyComb Hair, the salon of Project X 2025 Support Olivia Rose Brady. The evening featured talented stylists and educators including Olivia Rose Brady, Kay Binnersley, and Claire Keith, who demonstrated a variety of looks while sharing invaluable tips and techniques.
Demonstrator Kay Binnersley reflected on the event: “The atmosphere in the salon was buzzing with creativity and enthusiasm. Attendees were full of great questions, particularly about breaking down styles and understanding product choice. It was fantastic to see so much excitement around bridal hair artistry, and I loved sharing my knowledge with such passionate stylists.”
Liverpool Creative XChange™: A Warm and Welcoming Finale
The final event of the series took place at Phill Gallagher’s Dot Hair in Liverpool, with contributions from F.A.M.E. TEAM 2025 members Bekki Delehedy and Annie Franklin, as well as stylists Jordan Heyes, Lesley Reay, and Carla Keating.
Attendee Jac Spiers described the experience: “It was refreshing to be around such warm and friendly people. The talent in the salon was amazing, but not a hint of pretentiousness. Everyone was kind and welcoming. I loved the whole evening and would definitely attend another one!”
Looking Ahead
The Fellowship Creative XChange™ continues to grow, with upcoming events scheduled for Farnham and Glasgow in April. The initiative provides a platform for hairstylists and barbers to share ideas, learn from one another, and connect within local creative communities. Tickets are available on the Fellowship Website – https://fellowshiphair.com/book-tickets/#fellowship-events
To start your Fellowship journey or host a Creative XChange™ event in your salon, barber shop, or independent space, visit the Fellowship website or email [email protected].
