Anna Cofone (Hair & Care CIC)
Nominee Profile
Location: Hackney
Hair & Care CIC is a Hackney-based non-profit founded by award-winning session hairstylist Anna Cofone, dedicated to empowering blind and low-vision women and girls through hair and self care workshops and education, to boost confidence, self-esteem and reduce feelings of isolation. Since inception Hair & Care has supported over 300 blind and low vision individuals.
Growing up with a father who progressively lost his sight from his early 20s, Anna founded Hair & Care with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by people with sight loss, as well as the positive impact self care can have on a person's mental wellbeing, particularly those living with a physical or mental disability. Her lived experience drives Hair & Care’s commitment to transforming lives.
Hair care isn’t just about appearance, it’s a cornerstone of self-esteem and well-being - yet the hair industry is largely inaccessible to blind and low vision individuals, often leaving them disconnected from a vital part of personal well-being and identity. At Hair & Care, we believe everyone deserves to feel confident, independent, and included.
More recently Hair & Care has also taken its mission for inclusivity to Fashion Week, where it helps designers make their shows accessible to those with sight loss, through audio and tactile experiences. We have welcomed blind and low vision guests to 6 shows that we’ve made accessible over the past year, and also championed the inclusion of the first blind model to walk the runway in Copenhagen, with Lucy Edwards.
Hair & Care’s goal is to push for a more accessible landscape where individuals with sight loss can feel included, represented and empowered.
Growing up with a father who progressively lost his sight from his early 20s, Anna founded Hair & Care with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by people with sight loss, as well as the positive impact self care can have on a person's mental wellbeing, particularly those living with a physical or mental disability. Her lived experience drives Hair & Care’s commitment to transforming lives.
Hair care isn’t just about appearance, it’s a cornerstone of self-esteem and well-being - yet the hair industry is largely inaccessible to blind and low vision individuals, often leaving them disconnected from a vital part of personal well-being and identity. At Hair & Care, we believe everyone deserves to feel confident, independent, and included.
More recently Hair & Care has also taken its mission for inclusivity to Fashion Week, where it helps designers make their shows accessible to those with sight loss, through audio and tactile experiences. We have welcomed blind and low vision guests to 6 shows that we’ve made accessible over the past year, and also championed the inclusion of the first blind model to walk the runway in Copenhagen, with Lucy Edwards.
Hair & Care’s goal is to push for a more accessible landscape where individuals with sight loss can feel included, represented and empowered.