Michelle Thompson’s high energy approach to her craft has given her the drive to achieve so much in her 16-year career. Michelle has worked hard to unite all aspects of hairdressing in her portfolio and displays strength of talent for Afro and Caucasian hair. She joined the Francesco Group 7 years ago and quickly became a very busy member of the growing team. In 2004 Michelle stepped up to the challenge of teaching and now teams up with Director of Hairdressing, Anya Dellicompagni to run the highly regarded Francesco Group Academy. Michelle personally teaches cutting at all levels and many aspects of Afro hairdressing including relaxing, Caribbean styling and tonging. She is qualified as an NVQ Assessor and a member of HABIA’s Afro Skills Team. Michelle is a natural teacher who clearly enjoys passing on her knowledge to others particularly in Afro hair. “I love that moment when students get over their preconceptions of Afro hair and realise it’s just a different texture, nothing more. Removing the fear and helping professionals add another string to their bow is a great motivation for me,” says Michelle. Michelle Thompson has had outstanding success in awards and competitions and has presented on stage for Wella Trend Vision, Salon International and The Fellowship for British Hairdressers. She has won many titles and nominations including Northern Stylist of the Year 2008 at the Black Hair Wahl Awards and winner of the Golden Scissors Award 2006 for Afro Stylist of the Year. Michelle really enjoys competition work because she feels that it keeps her skills current and perspective fresh, two things that in turn benefit her students and her staff. Michelle’s breadth of experience, forward thinking attitude, creative talents and approachability make her an enviable force in the world of hairdressing.