A Kent-based Turkish Cypriot hairstylist is celebrating after being placed second in the whole of the UK at the prestigious 2026 HBA Awards.
Neran Dervish, founder of Hair by Neran, travelled to Manchester with her husband to attend the awards ceremony after being shortlisted as a finalist in three categories.
The biggest surprise of the evening came when Neran was announced as 2nd in the UK for Hairstylist of the Year (Mobile).
She was also recognised in the Best Home Salon category, placing 19th in the UK, as well as becoming a finalist for Best for Bridal – Individual.
For Neran, the recognition is the latest milestone in a 15-year career in hairdressing. She first entered the industry at just 15 years old as a Saturday girl and has continued to build her career and business while also working in the NHS.
Today, Neran runs her own hairdressing business in Kent, offering services from her home salon as well as providing mobile hairdressing.
Despite the years of hard work, Neran says she is still struggling to believe what she achieved in Manchester.
“I am still in shock and honestly can’t believe I have been placed 2nd in Hairstylist of the Year (Mobile) in the whole of the UK at the HBA Awards. I’m so overwhelmed with love and happiness. It really hasn’t sunk in yet.”
The awards also gave Neran the opportunity to meet hairstylists and beauty professionals from across the UK.
“I was able to meet so many talented individuals within the industry. Being surrounded by so many amazing and talented people made the whole experience even more memorable. It was such an incredible experience and one I will never forget.”
Neran, who is proudly Turkish Cypriot, says having her husband beside her in Manchester made the achievement even more meaningful.
Her proud parents, Sister & family & friends were also able to experience the moment with her from home by watching the awards live stream.
“Having my husband there with me in Manchester made the whole experience even more special. My family and friends were watching the live stream from home, and knowing they were all watching and supporting me made the moment so emotional. I’m incredibly grateful for every single person who has believed in me and supported me throughout my journey.”
Neran says she is proud not only of the result, but of how far she has come since starting her career as a teenager.
“To be recognised on a national level for something I have worked so hard for is something I will always be proud of & cherish. I’m so grateful for the love and support from my family, friends, husband, clients and everyone who has supported Hair by Neran.”
After an unforgettable trip to Manchester, Neran has returned to Kent with a national award placement, memories she will treasure and even more motivation for the future.
“I feel like my journey is only just beginning, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me. I’m excited to continue building my career, developing my skills and taking Hair by Neran to its fullest potential. This achievement has given me even more motivation to keep working hard and see what the future holds.”
At the HBA awards celebrations continued long into the evening with an impressive line-up of live entertainment. Neran and the other finalists were treated to performances from well-known artists including Professor Green, Tinchy Stryder, Fuse ODG, Dappy and Junior Andre, bringing the HBA celebrations to an unforgettable close.
For Neran, being surrounded by talented professionals from across the UK, celebrating her achievement with her husband and knowing her family and friends were watching the livestream from home made the entire experience one she will never forget.
For Neran, coming 2nd in the UK is more than just an award — it is a reminder of how far her passion, dedication and hard work have taken her!
Neran says, “This isn’t the end of my journey; it’s the beginning of another exciting chapter. I’m incredibly proud of how far I’ve come, and I can’t wait to see where my passion for hairdressing takes me next.”
