TAFE Gippsland hairdressing teacher Claire MacUmber is off to Bali next year — but not for the reasons you’d expect.
A hairdresser of almost 30 years, salon owner and TAFE Gippsland teacher for nearly eight, Claire will be packing her scissors for a trip of a lifetime in June 2026. But instead of soaking up the sights and sunsets, she’ll be using her skills to make a real difference.
“I’ll be spending up to six hours a day providing training in men’s and women’s haircutting services, hair-up styles, maintaining tools, communication skills and providing salon services in communities experiencing critical poverty—such as women’s and men’s prisons, local street and slum areas, and shelters supporting rescued women,” Claire explained.
The journey began with Hair Aid Global Cut-A-Thon, an Australian charity event that raises awareness and funds to help transform lives through the power of a haircut. Earlier this year, Claire participated by donating 100% of the proceeds from her salon services to Hair Aid.
“Every hairstylist who took part was entered into a draw to win a place in the Hair Aid Bali Project Experience 2026,” Claire said. “To my absolute surprise and excitement, I was announced as the winner!”
As part of the project, Claire will spend five days volunteering, helping people in Bali learn haircutting and small business skills — empowering them to create sustainable livelihoods and hopefully break the cycle of poverty.
“We’ll also have the opportunity to visit an orphanage to offer haircuts to the children,” she said.
For Claire, who began teaching to share her passion and knowledge with the next generation of stylists, this experience represents a full-circle moment.
“As I celebrate my 30th anniversary in the industry next year, I can’t think of a more meaningful way to give back to the profession that has given me so much,” Claire said.
All the best, Claire — we can’t wait to hear about your adventures overseas and the incredible impact you’ll make along the way.
Find out more about the Hair Aid Bali Project Experience 2026.