Jason Stanton, Editorial Art Director for VoCê Haircare, along with Kaz Amor, founder of VoCê are setting out to change the industry with their “Prodigy Program”.
We had the honor of attending one of their Prodigy Program days in Santa Monica, CA. It was an incredible experience to watch the young faces of cosmetology students fill with amazement and excitement when talking about their aspirations with Jason and Kaz from VoCê. This brand is making it their mission to empower students and enrich them with the knowledge and experience to go out there and become the artists they aspire to be.
We asked Jason and Kaz to share the in’s and out’s of the “Prodigy Program”, here’s what they had to say…..
Tell us how the Prodigy Program was born...
At VoCê, we are always trying to find new ways to make our industry more credible. My background is in staff training and education. Kaz has a very similar heritage too; we are very like-minded people so we were discussing how everyone needs a mentor, no matter if they are young or old. One of my favorite bands is a band called “Prodigy” and I like the song “Firestarter”. I feel that our industry is not grooming the next generation enough, and being English and having gone through many apprenticeships, I felt an obligation to step up. So, I guess it was born out of necessity.
I created this ideology of Firestarters and Prodigies almost 20 years ago. Kaz and VoCé are the perfect vehicle to make it happen.
What specifically are you looking for in future Prodigies?
Passion, Passion and more Passion. A sense of self. Ultimately, a thirst for knowledge.
What would this opportunity have meant to you as a young artist?
Free education that's really good. Stephen Moody was and still is a mentor to me…I walk in his shadow. If we can provide a safe environment for the Prodigies to exceed their expectations I will be happy.
What would be the biggest take aways for your new Prodigies?
I suggest Indian food. But seriously, knowledge.
What advice you give to future artists…Prodigies?
Don't be late….work hard…and laugh your asses off.
Tell us a little bit about the experiences the Prodigies will be having with VoCê?
They will change the common perception of a manufacturer. We make really good products and we have brilliant education. However, we have extremely high standards so there will be challenges….tests essentially.
What does this mean to you as a mentor?
I am always trying to learn so I don't see myself as a mentor…..I just want to see stylists doing beautiful things. Period.
Anything else you wanna share with us?
Yeah, we are a young upstart with passion, drive and shitloads of experience. Come and get on board.
We can’t wait to see what these “Prodigies” will bring to our industry with the guidance of two of the hair industries’ most gifted artists. If you would like to be involved with the “Prodigy Program”, email them at [email protected]. Be sure to Stalk the VoCê channel to keep up all their work, more info on the Prodigy Program, and their team on Bangstyle.
