In a history-making move, American Crew® ended the 2019 All-Star Challenge with a tie. Blade Pullman of Australia and Emma Jankowski of the USA were both awarded the title of American Crew® 2019 All-Star Challenge Global Champions. The awards took place during the brand’s 25th anniversary celebration in New York City last night.
“This year’s event not only marked American Crew’s 25th anniversary, but also the first time the judging panel couldn’t decide on just one winner for the All-Star Challenge,” said Gillian Gorman Round, Global General Manager of American Crew®. “The two winning styles from Blade Pullman and Emma Jankowski were so different but struck a unique balance, showcasing what we saw as the heritage, present and future of the American Crew man.”
Pullman and Jankowski were chosen from an elite group of 14 stylists, narrowed down from thousands of All-Star Challenge entries this year. The finale took place over a two day photo shoot at MILK studios. Finalists worked alongside industry experts to showcase their best cut and style, captured in photo by American Crew photographers, including Founder of American Crew® David Raccuglia. Through a blind judging process, the winning photos were awarded using a points system that scored on creativity, technical ability and a true portrayal of the American Crew® brand.
“For a stylist that is just starting out in his career, it has been amazing to be around all of the talented All-Star Challenge contestants. This experience has truly instilled in me the culture of the barbering community and how impactful this competition is for our industry,” said Blade Pullman, 2019 All-Star Challenge Global Champion.
“Having completed this journey, my biggest advice to other barbers would be to enter this competition,” said Emma Jankowski, 2019 All-Star Challenge Global Champion. “This has been one of the best experiences of my life.”
The two young stylists will both receive prizes that will help them continue to perfect their skills and grow their career in the men’s grooming category. Prizes include: $10,000 USD, the coveted American Crew® All-Star Challenge Global Champion Trophy, an invitation to become judges for the 2020 All-Star Challenge, a full scholarship to the new American Crew® Education Program and a feature in an upcoming issue of Estetica.
