Justice and Soul Foundation announces first graduation

Kate Korpi Salon and Academy graduates first class

Phnom Penh- The Justice and Soul Foundation has announced the graduation of its first four students from Phase 1 of training at the Kate Korpi Salon and Academy, which includes mastery of shampoo, blow dry, and styling skills. The Kate Korpi Salon and Academy is Phnom Penh’s newest premier salon offering a full range of services, including hair, nails, makeup, and skin care, including Dermalogica Microzone treatments.

The Kate Korpi Salon and Academy teaches sustainable cosmetology skills to survivors of the sex trafficking industry.

What started as an idea discussed over a cup of coffee five years ago blossomed into a full day of salon “practice” appointments for the soft opening in July, with the grand opening held on November 22. The Kate Korpi Salon and Academy quickly became Cambodia’s premier hair salon, where students learn cosmetology and professional workplace skills from expert trainers from around the globe.  

“Graduating our first class of students from the first phase of training is the realization of plans and dreams five years in the making. This was no small feat and we could not have done it without the incredible dedication of our volunteers. There were times that the students wanted to quit, but we encouraged them to continue, and their reward is graduation and moving one step closer to healthy, sustainable careers,” explained Justice and Soul Co-Founder Matthew Fairfax.

The next phase of development for the Academy is the recruitment of industry educators and volunteers. The Justice and Soul Foundation is recruiting stylists, educators, and volunteers to visit Cambodia and volunteer at the Academy for up to three months. Those interested in visiting for more than three months may be paid a stipend to offset expenses. Additional information on joining the Kate Korpi Salon and Academy team can be found here.

The Kate Korpi Salon and Academy has been developed and is managed by the non-profit Justice and Soul Foundation. The teaching salon was established to provide its students with the fundamentals of cosmetology (hair, skin, nails, and makeup).

Students attending the Academy include survivors of sex trafficking and those at risk for sexual exploitation. They do not pay tuition, but are instead awarded scholarships. The program also includes a compensation plan for the students so that they can begin experiencing sustainable financial independence while learning this valuable trade.

The Justice and Soul Foundation works closely with local non-profits to ensure students have access to qualified therapists to address the trauma experienced by the victims while providing problem-solving and life skills necessary for independence and a full transition.

Justice and Soul co-founder Matthew Fairfax owns the James Alan Salon and Spa in Shoreline.