carl

When did you know you wanted to be involved in the hair business? My British father was ex-Navy and when it became clear that I wasn’t going to follow in his footsteps, we agreed that I would become a chef. I was working late into the night and on weekends 3pm to 3am -- six days a week. The kitchens were dark with fluorescent lighting - I hated it. I did it for four years and when a friend suggested I become a hair stylist I jumped at the chance of being in a social, artistic and warm-hearted business.

When did you arrive at Storm and why did you stay? I arrived in Canada from Australia in 2005 and I had to wait for my residency status. It took twelve months. During that year, I walked around the city and explored all the salons - imagining which one I wanted to join. I remember walking by Storm and liking the bohemian, artsy feel. It wasn’t cold like chain salons but inviting and warm. The day that I got my papers I walked by Storm and there was a ‘hair stylist wanted’ sign in the window. I walked in and introduced myself to Lisa. By the end of the conversation she asked me, “When can you start?”. That was three years ago.

What is the most important human value for you? I like making people feel good about themselves - important and special. And I’m attracted to people who seek that help - people that want encouragement in finding their best selves.

What is your greatest wish? My greatest wish is to be happy, stable and content. And I feel that I have arrived at this point. I’ve had an amazing life where I’ve traveled the world and had the opportunity to engage in great friendships. Seeing how others live and struggle, I realize and appreciate that I’ve been fortunate and I am very grateful.