Krystle Tokunai - 2024 AHIA Creative QLD Hairdresser of the Year & the Salon She Built!

Just a few minutes from the bustling centre of Cairns, you’ll find something special—Tokunai Hair. More than just a salon, it’s a creative sanctuary where hair artistry meets community, and where every client is embraced with genuine care.

At the heart of it all is Krystle Tokunai, a talented hairdresser, makeup artist, and entrepreneur who has not only built an incredible salon but also created her own beauty range, MIYA—a beauty range inspired by the names of her two daughters. Since opening the salon in 2008, she’s built something extraordinary—a salon where people go not just for great hair, but for an experience they’ll always remember.

What truly sets Tokunai Hair apart is the energy within its walls. The team is more than a group of stylists; they are a creative force, constantly innovating and pushing the boundaries of hairstyling. Their passion is evident in everything they do. Their dedication has turned heads across the industry, earning them recognition, including Krystle Tokunai’s individual achievement as the 2024 AHIA Creative Queensland Hairdresser of the Year. But beyond the awards, what stands out most is the way they support each other— lifting one another up, collaborating on creative projects, and celebrating every milestone as a team.

From the moment you step inside Tokunai Hair, you’re welcomed with warmth and attention to detail. Krystle Tokunai and her team have created a space where every detail is designed with care, from the warm welcome to the little touches that make each visit special. It’s not just about great hair (though you’ll certainly walk out feeling amazing). It’s about how you feel the entire time you’re there. The team takes the time to get to know their clients—their lifestyle, hair goals, favourite ways to style their hair. Consultations aren’t rushed, and the team is always ready to offer expert advice, so clients leave not only looking fabulous but feeling confident in how to maintain their new look.

Tokunai’s VIP membership system is another way they make life easier for their clients. With prepaid colour memberships and a subscription-based blowdry service, their loyal clients get priority bookings and a personalised experience every single time. It’s this kind of attention to detail that makes Tokunai Hair a salon people keep coming back to.

One of the standout features of Tokunai Hair is its commitment to continuous learning and innovation. The salon is not just a workplace; it’s a hub for professional growth. Krystle ensures her team stays at the forefront of industry trends through structured monthly in-salon training sessions, external workshops, and participation in hands-on creative projects. This commitment to education ensures that every stylist is equipped with the latest techniques and knowledge, providing clients with cutting-edge hairstyling services.

Creativity is celebrated beyond the salon floor. Tokunai Hair’s team played a pivotal role in executing a highly successful creative project that contributed to Krystle’s 2024 AHIA Creative Queensland Hairdresser of the Year win. The team collaborated on every step of the process, from concept development and styling to actively participating in the photoshoot day. This project was more than just an award entry—it was an opportunity for growth, learning, and pushing artistic boundaries. The experience reinforced their unity as a team and set a new standard for excellence in creative hairstyling.

Beyond structured training, Krystle fosters an environment where mentorship and team building are a priority. Monthly incentives and a strategic goal-setting system encourage every team member to track their growth, take pride in their work, and stay motivated. Tokunai Hair’s work culture thrives on collaboration, where stylists inspire and challenge each other to become their best. The salon also participates in external industry events, allowing stylists to experience highpressure creative environments that further develop their confidence and skill set.

Sustainability is another key focus at Tokunai Hair. The salon has integrated eco-friendly practices into its daily operations, from using ethically sourced, chemical-free hair products to implementing a structured recycling program that includes foils, hair clippings, and product packaging. By reducing waste and minimising its environmental footprint, Tokunai Hair is proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. They’ve also embraced digital communication methods to cut down on paper usage and have switched to biodegradable alternatives wherever possible, ensuring that every aspect of their operations aligns with an environmentally responsible vision.

The sense of community within the salon extends far beyond its doors. Krystle and her team believe in fostering strong relationships—not just with clients but with the wider Cairns community. Whether it’s through hosting creative events, mentoring upcoming stylists, or engaging in collaborations with local businesses, Tokunai Hair remains a positive force in the industry and beyond. The annual “Because Fashion” event is a testament to this, showcasing not only the team’s artistic talents but also reinforcing their dedication to bringing people together to celebrate style and self-expression. Tokunai Hair is more than a salon; it is an evolving space where artistry, innovation, and community come together seamlessly.

So, what’s next for Tokunai Hair? If history is anything to go by, the only way is up. With Krystle Tokunai’s passion, the team’s talent, and their unwavering commitment to creativity, innovation, and community, the future looks brighter than ever. One thing is certain—whether it’s through groundbreaking hair transformations, unforgettable client experiences, or show-stopping creative projects, Tokunai Hair will continue to redefine what it means to be a salon. It’s not just about hair; it’s about heart, and that’s what makes all the difference.

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