LTW Participants Explore Beauty Careers at Premiere Columbus

Seven participants from Lead The Way’s Cosmetology program took their career exploration beyond the classroom at Premiere Columbus, held October 11–12, 2026, at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. The event brought together beauty professionals, educators, and industry brands, offering a closer look at the creativity, technical skills, and continuing education behind careers in beauty.

Representing LTW were Darrel Lee-Oliver, Amiera Hester, Emija Barnett, Nyah Miller, Journey Machen, Brazil Moore, and Zy'Bria Carr.

With educational sessions and live demonstrations spanning hair, barbering, nails, makeup, and other specialties, Premiere Columbus offered participants opportunities to discover techniques, explore professional tools, and learn about the industry’s different career paths. Seeing these possibilities helps students identify what interests them, ask better questions about training, and consider where their strengths might fit.

For LTW, career readiness includes helping young people make informed choices about their futures. Experiences like this connect students’ interests with professional environments and give them context for deciding what to pursue next—whether that means further education, specialized training, or exploring another career direction.

Thank you to our cosmetology partner, Master Beauty & Barber Academy, for supporting this opportunity and helping our participants connect their interests to future possibilities. Together, we are expanding access to career exploration and helping young people take thoughtful steps toward their goals.