Antonio Lopez
As an early-shift factory worker facing uncertainty and significant financial hardship during the pandemic, Antonio’s life direction changed when he began cutting his friends’ hair. He soon realised that barbering was more than just a hobby - he’d found his passion.
Enrolling in the Certificate III in Barbering at Chisholm’s Berwick campus, Antonio was a model student with an unwavering focus and a selfless willingness to support his peers. He quickly advanced his technical skills and won Chisholm’s Vocational Barber Battle in 2025. This triumph helped secure his current job at one of Victoria’s most prestigious barbershops.
Antonio’s accolades now extend far beyond the classroom. He has styled for high-profile events, including the Formula 1 and the Boxing Day Test.
His impact is felt through his pay-it-forward approach to his profession. By mentoring younger team members, Antonio is already shaping the next generation of stylists with the professionalism and can-do attitude he honed during his studies.
"Chisholm literally changed my life," Antonio reflects.
Antonio credits his teachers for giving him the confidence and self-belief that barbering is his true career path.
“I've learned so much, about hair cutting but also about myself – how to be resilient in my struggles and how to be confident,” said Antonio.
In the future, Antonio looks forward to running his own business and showing his apprentices what he learned at Chisholm.
Antonio is a worthy recipient of Chisholm’s 2026 Vocational Student of the Year award.