The inaugural 2026 cohort includes Johan Fitch (Melbourne, FL), Susan Seo (Alameda, CA), Mika Toussaint (Dallas, TX), Jessica Willis (Grand Rapids, MI), and Billie Jean Bolden (Greenville, SC). Chosen for their business acumen and commitment to peer mentorship, these professionals will share their expertise as panelists at the upcoming IMAGE Pro Live 2027 event.

Jason Olsen, founder and CEO of IMAGE Studios, stated that the program highlights the grit and creative standards defining the company’s network of independent salon owners. Each Icon was selected following a competitive review involving franchise owner nominations, social media analysis, and direct verification of their impact within their local beauty communities.

From barbers and holistic aestheticians to certified life coaches and textured hair specialists, the selected group operates across diverse niches within the beauty sector. Each professional will use their platform to mentor fellow studio owners, sharing strategies for building sustainable, luxury brands while maintaining authentic client relationships. IMAGE Studios, which currently operates 141 locations across 31 states, plans to leverage these stories to further support its goal of empowering independent beauty entrepreneurs.