Fiona Gainfort, a prominent businesswoman and co-owner with her husband Michael Gainfort, of Gainfort Academy, Gainfort Hair & Beauty and Gainfort Salon Design, has been making waves in the industry with her recent award victories. A proud owner of three award-winning businesses located in Wexford & Waterford, and with satellite locations as part of their ETB education delivery, Fiona Gainfort has continued to raise the bar for excellence and innovation. Her exceptional achievements in 2023 have earned her nominations for five awards, out of which she has claimed victory in three categories with one nomination pending.
Gainfort Academy, Gainfort’s educational division, was founded in 2007. It is recognised as a leader of excellence in training and education. The Academy is a subsidiary of Gainfort Hair & Beauty Supplies which has realised over 30 years of successful operations. This year, Gainfort Academy has garnered significant attention and accolades, including nominations for the prestigious VTCT Training Award UK & Ireland (winner to be announced in July) and the esteemed County Wexford Business Award. We are thrilled to announce that Gainfort Academy emerged as the winner in the Training Provider of the Year category at the County Wexford Business Awards. This is the fifth time Gainfort Academy has won this award & they are very proud of this phenomenal record which is all the more special as it hails within their hometown.
Moreover, Fiona Gainfort herself has been acknowledged for her outstanding contributions and leadership in the industry. She was nominated for two prominent awards, namely the Business Woman of the Year by the Network Ireland Wexford branch and the Director of the Year at the Hi Style Women of Vision Awards. We are proud to announce that Fiona Gainfort triumphed in the latter category, receiving the Director of the Year award from RTE’s Miriam O Callaghan at the inaugural Hi Style Women of Vision Awards.
Additionally, Fiona Gainfort has been selected as one of ten exceptional women for the prestigious AIB, Irish Management Institute and 30% Club Ireland Mentoring Initiative for women in SMEs. This recognition highlights Fiona’s exemplary leadership and entrepreneurial skills, positioning her as a role model for aspiring businesswomen. Over the next twelve months, Fiona will have the invaluable opportunity to be guided and supported by highly experienced mentors from within AIB. Their wealth of knowledge and insights will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for Fiona’s personal and professional growth, enabling her to overcome challenges, seize opportunities and thrive in her field.
Applicants went through a vigorous selection process given that there were only 10 places available nationally. Fiona attended the launch in AIBs Headquarters in Molesworth Street and is thoroughly enjoying the programme so far.
These recent accolades add to the already impressive list of awards and recognitions bestowed upon Gainfort Academy. Throughout its journey, the academy has secured numerous prestigious honours, including the RSVP Leading Beauty School, The Irish Hair and Beauty Awards, The Irish Makeup Awards, Be Fabulous Hair Awards, and most notably, the Hi Style Tia Maria Award for Best Beauty Academy and Best Training Academy in Ireland. Gainfort Academy is also a proud recipient of five Wexford Business Training Awards historically achieved in 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2016. Fiona has also won most Stylish Pro Beauty Supplier of the Year at the Hi Style 2021 awards.
One of the key factors contributing to the success of Gainfort Academy is the expertise and dedication of its qualified team of tutors. Each member of the team possesses extensive industry knowledge and continually engages in a program of continued professional development. Their commitment to excellence ensures that Gainfort Academy consistently delivers high-quality training and education, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the beauty and hair industry.
Fiona Gainfort’s relentless pursuit of excellence and her passion for driving innovation have undoubtedly propelled her businesses to new heights. With her recent award victories and continued dedication to providing exceptional services, she continues to shape the industry landscape and inspire future generations of beauty professionals.
For more information about Gainfort Academy, Gainfort Hair & Beauty, and Gainfort Salon Design, please see http://www.gainfort.com.
