Team

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Founder + Director

Natalie is the Founder and Director of Summit Salon Academy, leading the vision, admissions, and overall direction of the school. With years of hands-on industry experience and as the owner of two successful hair salons, she brings real-world leadership into every aspect of the academy.

Her commitment to excellence ensures that students are trained not only in technical skill, but in professionalism, discipline, and long-term career growth. Natalie oversees admissions personally, selecting students who are ready to commit to the standards and culture of the academy.

Her leadership reflects a clear mission: to develop confident, industry-ready professionals who elevate the beauty industry

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Founder + Director Of Education

Philip was born and raised in Montreal by Portuguese immigrant parents. His father was a tailor and his mother worked by his side making leather goods. While the family struggled to make a living, Philip remembers always having beautiful leather jackets and being well supported and loved. Philip dreamt of being an architect but when the family relocated to Victoria in Grade 12, he didn’t speak enough English to attend college. With language as a barrier to education, he worked construction until he found a mentor who introduced him to the world of hair. He worked the night shift at Denny’s, travelled to Nanaimo for his BC hair license, all the while being a young father.

Philip is the only Canadian to have won International Trend Vision, Sassoon trained, he’s travelled the world educating and he’s an inspiring artist and cutter. The best thing about Philip, besides his obvious talent, he’s the kindest man you’ll ever meet.

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Lead Educator

U.K., U.S., and Canada.

I’ve worn many hats: salon owner, educator, session stylist, TV/film contributor, fashion runway artist, and master stylist.

My craft has been shaped by training with industry legends - Vidal Sassoon, Toni & Guy, Trevor Sorbie, and Pivot Point Chicago - and deepened through extensive education with a wide range of professional colour lines.

My mission is simple: integrity - in both life and work. I believe in customization, creating enviable hair that’s as unique as the individual.

Hair is my canvas, my language, and my passion. It never gets old - it’s always evolving, always exciting.

Outside the salon, I prioritize self-care through swimming, reading, and quality time with family.

I bring that same balance into my teaching, where I follow a Montessori-inspired approach: meeting each person exactly where they are.

Inclusion and diversity aren’t trends - they’re the foundation of our industry and my classroom.

Can’t wait to meet you!

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Director of Media & Brand Strategy

Asia oversees the media and marketing vision for Summit Salon Academy, building the internal and external systems that support growth, enrollment, and long-term brand positioning.

With experience as a former salon owner and industry educator, she bridges creativity with strategy - ensuring every campaign, classroom highlight, and digital touchpoint reflects the academy’s standard of excellence.

Her approach combines structure, storytelling, and strategic growth - aligning education with modern brand leadership

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Educator

Originally from Europe, Erik brings a unique blend of global perspective and modern innovation to Summit Salon Academy. With a background in the tech sector, including experience at Shopify, he understands the power of systems, structure, and digital evolution in today’s industries.

Now working behind the chair and stepping into education, Erik combines technical precision with a deep passion for the beauty industry. His transition into hair instruction reflects his commitment to growth, creativity, and mentorship.

Erik is dedicated to helping students build both technical skill and modern industry awareness - preparing them for the evolving landscape of professional hairdressing.

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