Get everything you need to prepare for Beacon 2026. Whether you’re a student mapping out your path or an educator guiding the next class of leaders, these resources will help you get started.
YOUR FUTURE IN BEAUTY STARTS HERE
BEACON STUDENT
PROGRAM
The moment to step forward and show the world who you are and where you’re headed is here. Beacon is your chance to learn from top industry leaders, connect with passionate peers, and launch your career in beauty.
Get everything you need to start your application down below. Applications close January 16, 2026.
Get everything you need to start your application down below. Applications close January 16, 2026.
Fuel Your
Future in Beauty
Your Future Deserves This
Beacon is where the next generation of beauty leaders are discovered, mentored, and celebrated. Share this one-page overview with your peers or keep it handy as your quick guide to Beacon.
Bring Beacon to Your Classroom
Educators, this presentation is designed to inspire your students and walk them through what Beacon is all about. Use it to spark excitement and show them how Beacon can launch their careers.
APPLY FOR BEACON 2026
Beacon discovers, mentors, and celebrates the next generation of beauty leaders. Find your voice, own your edge, and lead with purpose at Premiere Orlando, May 29–31, 2026.
CLAIM YOUR SPOT
Cosmetology/hairstyling, barber, esthetics, nail and massage students who are enrolled in an accredited program or an authorized apprenticeship program as of January 1, 2025.
SHOW US WHO YOU ARE
Upload your resume. Whether it’s on a digital platform like BEAUTISTA or a traditional resume, we want to see your skills.
LET OTHERS LIFT YOU UP
Ask an instructor or employer for a letter of recommendation. This is a chance for someone who believes in you to brag a little.
TURN YOUR FEED INTO YOUR STAGE
Build and share your Instagram or TikTok portfolio. Show your artistry, your growth, and your professional edge.
SPEAK YOUR FUTURE INTO EXISTENCE
Bring your passion to life in a short video (90 seconds or less) and share why you’re ready for Beacon 2026.
KNOW THE COST
- The application fee is $30 for PBA Student Members and $60 for Non-Members and is non-refundable. This does not include a PBA Membership, but if you are accepted into Beacon you will automatically receive one.
- Tuition: $199 (covers all official Beacon programming and is non-refundable)
- Travels, hotels, meals: Not included and varies by location & preference
- More information
TAKE
THE LEAP
Applications are now open and close January 16, 2026.
Once accepted into Beacon, tuition is $199. Your investment includes all program tools and materials, two full days with top industry experts and exclusive Beacon swag.
You are responsible for travel expenses (airfare, hotels, etc.)
Hear It From the Class of 2025
Don’t just take our word for it—hear what this year’s Beacon students had to say about the experience, the connections, and the impact.
Bonus Experiences
The Beacon Edge
Beacon is a full experience. From free tickets to the 37th Annual North American Hairstyling Awards and Premiere Orlando to over $500 in products from leading brands, you’ll get access to the best of the industry inside and outside the classroom.
Free Tickets
NAHA & Premiere
Watch beauty’s biggest names take the stage at the North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA), then walk the show floor at Premiere Orlando, the largest beauty show in the country. Get inspired, connect with industry icons, and see what’s possible in your future.
TAKE HOME
$500+ in Products
Get ready to pack big. You’ll take home over $500 in professional products from leading brands, with two swag bags filled with tools, treatments, and inspiration to fuel your next creative chapter.
Beacon Alumni
Previous Beacon students who now lead the industry!
JALIA PETTIS
NAHA 2022 Makeup Artist of the Year Winner, Educator, Owner of 3Jay Productions.
ELIZABETH FAYE
NAHA 2022 & 2023 Educator of the Year Finalist, Business Coach, CEO of Hair Love University.
FALLYN MIREAULT
Color & Extension Specialist, Stylist at Samuel Cole Salon.
GINA BIANCA
Educator, Business Coach, Owner of The Network Salon.
THANK YOU TO OUR 2026 SPONSORS
Your future is now!
Join the Professional Beauty Association and continue to strengthen your career! PBA offers memberships catered to the needs of students including exclusive scholarships and business and technical classes.
PARTNER WITH THE
FUTURE OF BEAUTY
Want to align your brand with the industry’s rising stars? Beacon offers a powerful way to connect with the next generation of beauty professionals—driving brand loyalty, visibility, and long-term engagement.
These students are tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and decision-makers. Your partnership helps shape their journey—and puts your brand at the heart of it.