Fall Scholarship: The Leo Passage “Dare to Lead” Cosmetology and Barbering Student Scholarship Fall 2026

The Leo Passage “Dare to Lead” Cosmetology and Barbering Student Scholarship

In partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, Pivot Point International is proud to announce the creation of two prestigious scholarships in 2026 for both students and educators to honor the legacy of our founder, Leo Passage. A world-renowned hairdresser, passionate educator, and trailblazing visionary, Leo Passage built a career rooted in three core values: bravery, curiosity, and the power of sharing knowledge.  

Leo's bravery was evident early in his life when, as a young boy, he helped Jews escape persecution during World War II, risking his own safety to stand up for others. His boundless curiosity drove him to leave his home country in Europe with only $75 in his pocket, embarking on a journey to the United States to see the world and pursue new opportunities. And his commitment to sharing knowledge transformed the beauty, barbering, and wellness industry—Leo pioneered an entirely new way of teaching that continues to empower students and educators around the globe. 

These Spring & Fall season scholarships aim to celebrate and inspire individuals who embody these principles, ensuring Leo's legacy lives on through the next generation of students and education leaders. 

Award Amounts and Number of Scholarships:

Two (2) Tuition Scholarships, up to $7,500 each. TOTAL $15,000 per season.*

Fall 2026 season opens Eligibility/QualificationsSeptember 1 – October 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM PST.

*One (1) $7,500 scholarship is open to any eligible school/institution, One (1) $7,500 scholarship is open to a Pivot Point International Partner School.  

Eligibility/Qualifications

• Be 18 years of age or older at the time of application.

• Be enrolled in or accepted to an eligible Cosmetology, Barbering, or equivalent hair-focused program at:                                        

  • a U.S.-accredited school leading to licensure or the applicable state-recognized equivalent;

  • a Canadian school meeting the applicable provincial requirements and leading to licensure, certification, or the province-recognized equivalent, where requirements vary; 

               -or a BCL Qualifying Partner School.

•  Demonstrate passion for the Cosmetology or Barbering profession, commitment to education, and financial need.

• Not have previously received a scholarship administered by Beauty Changes Lives, including scholarships funded by Pivot Point or any other BCL partner.

• Not be an employee, contractor, or immediate family member of BCL, Pivot Point, or an affiliated vendor.

BCL reserves the right to verify eligibility and make final determinations.

Application Requirements

1. Complete the online application and submit proof of enrollment in a cosmetology or barbering program by uploading your acceptance letter, progress report, or official letter from the school/institution. 

2. Watch the Leo Passage documentary "A journey of alchemy, passion, and inspiration" HERE, to answer the questions below. 

3. Submit a THREE-MINUTE MAXIMUM (CANNOT BE IN A SHORT FORMAT) YouTube video with a public link answering the following questions:  

• Leo Passage’s legacy is built on the core values of bravery, curiosity, and the power of sharing knowledge. How have you demonstrated these values on your journey in the industry, and how do you hope to carry them forward in your career?

• Leo Passage overcame many obstacles that shaped his life.  What challenges have you overcome to get here?

• How can you embody the phrase "Dare to Lead" while you complete this chapter of your career?

• How would this scholarship help address financial challenges and support your ability to continue your education? 

 “Seek and appreciate the best mentors in your life. Surround yourself with people who have a positive attitude and always believe in you. Dedicate yourself to lifelong learning and make your career a hobby so you have fun doing it.”                                                                                                          ~ Leo Passage

 ABOUT PIVOT POINT INTERNATIONAL & THE LEO PASSAGE ENDOWMENT FUND

By investing in educators and students, the Leo Passage Scholarships will honor his enduring legacy and support the growth of a vibrant, innovative beauty, barbering, and wellness industry. These scholarships will empower individuals who share his vision to lead, inspire, and elevate the profession. BCL & PPI will also be afforded permission to leverage the content for future branding/marketing purposes.

Together, Pivot Point International and Beauty Changes Lives will continue Leo Passage’s mission: to change lives through education and creativity in the beauty, barbering, and wellness industry.

These scholarships are generously funded by Pivot Point International & The Leo Passage Endowment Fund.