Intercoiffure South Africa – A Proud Legacy of Excellence

Our Heritage

Intercoiffure South Africa forms part of the prestigious global organization, Intercoiffure Mondial, recognized worldwide as the "House of Nations" for over a century. Intercoiffure unites the most respected salon owners, educators, innovators, and artistic leaders in the hairdressing profession.

Founded in 1925 by visionary hairdressers from Germany, France, Denmark, and England, the organization was established to elevate professional standards, foster leadership among peers, and advance the art and business of hairdressing internationally. Today, Intercoiffure represents more than 2,000 salons and tens of thousands of beauty professionals across more than 40 countries.

The iconic five-pointed star of Intercoiffure symbolizes the core values upon which the organization was built: Respect, Communication, Diligence, Excellence, and Integrity. These principles continue to guide our members and shape our commitment to excellence and creativity.

Intercoiffure Mondial

Intercoiffure Mondial Headquartered in Paris at the renowned House of Nations & serves as a global platform where leading hairdressers collaborate, exchange ideas, develop fashion collections, and inspire the future of the industry. The organization is dedicated to advancing education, innovation, international relationships, and professional excellence.

Through initiatives such as Fondation Guillaume, which nurtures young talent, and Education for Life, which creates educational opportunities in developing communities around the world, Intercoiffure extends its influence beyond hairdressing to meaningful social impact. Through these initiatives, communities around the world are empowered through education, mentorship, and opportunity.

Intercoiffure South Africa

As an official member section of Intercoiffure Mondial, Intercoiffure South Africa proudly represents the highest standards of South African hairdressing on the international stage. Our members are recognized leaders within the industry, committed to continuous education, artistic innovation, ethical business practices, and mentorship.

South African members have contributed for decades (68 years to be exact)  significantly to the global Intercoiffure community through artistic presentations, educational programs, international congresses, and fashion collections. Today, South Africa continues to be respected as a dynamic and influential sector within the worldwide organization.

Our Vision

To unite and inspire South Africa's most exceptional hairdressers through education, creativity, leadership, and international collaboration.

Our Mission

• To uphold the highest professional and ethical standards.

• To nurture future generations of hairdressers and salon owners.

• To promote artistic excellence and innovation.

• To create meaningful relationships within the global Intercoiffure family.

• To elevate the South African hairdressing industry through education, mentorship, and leadership.

Looking Forward

As we build upon the legacy of those who came before us, Intercoiffure South Africa remains committed to shaping and elevating our profession. Together, we celebrate craftsmanship, creativity, friendship, and the pursuit of excellence that has defined Intercoiffure for more than 100 years.

We are proud custodians of a remarkable heritage and excited architects of a brighter future

President's Foreword

There are moments in life when we are entrusted with the responsibility of carrying something greater than ourselves. Being elected President of Intercoiffure South Africa is one of those moments for me.

I am deeply honoured and incredibly proud to lead an organization that represents the very best of our profession. Intercoiffure is built on a legacy of excellence, creativity, friendship, and education. It is a global family that connects the world's leading hairdressers, yet at its heart, it is about people — the relationships we build, the lives we touch, and the impact we make through our craft.

Throughout my career, I have believed that hairdressing is about so much more than hair. It is about confidence, transformation, and helping people see themselves differently. It is an art, a skill, a business, and a calling.

South Africa is home to some of the most talented, resilient, and innovative hairdressers globally. Every day, I am inspired daily by the creativity that emerges from our salons, academies, and stages. Our diversity is our strength, and our unique perspective allows us to contribute something truly special to the global Intercoiffure family.

As President, my vision is to create greater opportunities for connection, education, mentorship, and growth. I would like Intercoiffure South Africa to be a place where established leaders and emerging talent come together to learn, inspire, and elevate one another. A place where creativity thrives, excellence is celebrated, and the future of our profession is actively shaped.

I am particularly passionate about education and the development of young professionals. The future of our industry depends on the next generation, and it is our responsibility to guide, support, and inspire them. Through mentorship, innovation, and international collaboration, we can ensure that South African hairdressing continues to earn its place on the global stage.

As we embark on this exciting new chapter together, I invite every member to participate actively in our journey. Let us continue to push boundaries, challenge ourselves creatively, support each another generously, and lead our industry with integrity, purpose, and vision.

Together, we honour the remarkable legacy of Intercoiffure while creating a future filled with possibility.

Thank you for your trust, your commitment, and your passion for our profession.

The best is yet to come.

With gratitude,

Shantal Benecke

President

Intercoiffure South Africa