Breaking the Shackles: Empowering Stylists - One Stylist at a Time

Breaking the Shackles: The Educational Platform You Need as a Stylist

My name is Irene Lucas, and I’m the proud owner of Hairmoves & Attitudes in Richwood, Cape Town. I’m also the creator of Breaking the Shackles—an education platform designed for stylists who may have felt left behind or whose journey got paused along the way.

With over 30 years of hands-on experience and a Wella Master Colorist certification, I’m on a mission to bridge the gap between old-school techniques and the modern, lived-in looks that clients are craving today. Working behind the chair every single day keeps me grounded, connected, and always learning. For me, it's where the real magic happens—where passion meets craft, and transformation unfolds.

Who is Irene?

• Stylist for Over 30 Years: I might have decades behind the chair, but I’m still learning and evolving every day.

• A Student and Teacher for Life: I believe we can never learn enough, and sharing knowledge is just as important as gaining it.

• Authenticity Above All: Real techniques, real growth, and real conversations—no fluff, no gatekeeping.

• Passionate About People & Education:  Hair isn’t just about color; it’s about confidence, transformation, and connection.

• Judgment-Free Educator: No fear, no ego—just a space to experiment, grow, and break the shackles that hold you back.

 

The Heart of Breaking the Shackles

To me, Breaking the Shackles is more than just a class—it’s a place where stylists can rediscover their passion, learn practical, hands-on techniques, and finally feel confident with those gorgeous, lived-in colors that are transforming the industry.

My classes are focused on:

• Easy, realistic approaches to balayage: no overcomplicating - just beautiful, consistent results.

• Transitioning from old-school to new-school: bridging the gap, not burning the bridge.

• Simple tips and tricks that make you think, “Why didn’t I do it this way before?”

We’ve already hosted:

• Two sold-out classes in Cape Town

• One sold-out class in Johannesburg

• Two upcoming classes in the Garden Route this July!

The best part? These workshops are completely brand-neutral. It’s all about the stylist’s journey—not just the products.

I am incredibly grateful to Modern Hair & Beauty for supporting me with quality products to make it all come to life. But the real magic? It happens in the hands of you, the stylists.

Why Breaking the Shackles Matters

This isn’t just about balayage or color correction; it’s about confidence, empowerment, and community. I want to create a safe, judgment-free space where stylists can experiment, make mistakes, and grow without fear. In classes, there are no egos and no gatekeeping—just real conversations and practical learning.

A few years ago, I survived a near-death experience, and it shifted everything. I realized that if I wanted to leave something behind, it wouldn’t just be beautiful hair; it would be knowledge, confidence, and connection that outlasts any trend. That’s why Breaking the Shackles exists—to lift others up and keep the passion for our craft alive.

 

The Power of Community and Support

I am incredibly thankful for the mentorship and guidance of Andrew Guilfoyle from @RunningwithScissorsConsult, who has been with me from the very beginning. His expert advice and support have been crucial as I built this platform from the ground up, piece by piece.

And while I know many stylists go abroad for learning, my heart is rooted right here in South Africa. This is where I want to make my impact. Our community deserves this kind of hands-on support and growth. I believe that if you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone, it doesn’t matter where you are—you can achieve incredible things.

Visuals and Stories:

These are the real stories of stylists finding their groove again, learning fresh techniques, and falling back in love with their craft.

• Before-and-after transformations that show the artistry and technique developed in our workshops.

• Workshop highlights that capture the energy, the learning, and the realness of what happens in the room.

• Stylist testimonials that speak to the confidence and excitement they felt after attending. One stylist mentioned that attending the class “lit a fire that I didn’t even know had gone out.” Those words are the reason I do this.  

The Vision for the Future

I am committed to expanding Breaking the Shackles across South Africa, reaching stylists in smaller towns and communities who may not always have access to advanced education. I’m also exploring online learning, so stylists can join us from anywhere—no matter how far or remote.

Breaking the Shackles is an Educational Platform 

I can’t wait to see how much further it can grow and would love to share how Breaking the Shackles is changing the game for hairstylists and empowering them with confidence, skill, and community.

Contact me soon and let’s grow together!

Irene Lucas

Hairmoves & Attitudes

Breaking the Shackles Educator

📞 073 497 0254

@irene_hairmovesandattitudes

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