In the recent nail survey conducted by Professional Beauty and completed by over 250 nail professionals, we were surprised to learn just 6 per cent of participants claim to be members of nail associations.
The findings are quite significant given the majority of survey participants are salon owners. Just 4 per cent are part of the APFA (Australian Professional Fingernail Association) and a few others are part of the AABTH (Advanced Association of Beauty Therapists), APAA (The Association of Professional Aestheticians of Australia) and NZ Nail Association.
A few respondents say they used to be part of APFA but a lack of communication has led them to cut ties with one respondent commenting, “I have been a member of APFA in the past, but each time I call to re-join or get on board with the latest push to improve our industry, I never hear back from anyone. It makes me think that either the APFA staff are too busy to do both their own businesses and APFA or just aren't interested or dedicated enough.”
Karen Peppercorn, president of APFA made the following statement: “The APFA is ‘not for profit’ but, like most associations, it still has costs in order to comply with its legal obligations, and all these costs are funded through membership subscriptions. A small committee (council) of industry professionals oversee and support the day-to-day running of the association. These people are unpaid for their work and gain no financial benefit. As such, the association does not expect that the private businesses of the individuals should suffer as a result of their involvement. Their time and contribution is purely voluntary and we are tremendously grateful for their support.
“Sadly, this fact is often ignored by some, who seek to undermine the association or attempt to force the association to act in a particular way. When we issue a recommendation or guideline with which they disagree, some people simply attack the association, often publically, rather than engage in sensible dialogue or join us to contribute in a meaningful way.
“Since the APFA survives on the financial support of its members and the unpaid contributions of a handful of active members who also offer their valuable time and knowledge, it is important the APFA put its members first, seeking their advice and listening to their feedback. This means that it’s the members themselves who have a voice, and help shape the future of the association and their industry.
“For the association to continue to grow, and remain a serious voice within the industry – both in terms of government lobbying and in the eyes of a critical public – it needs members. New members, old members, students, salon owners, small business owners, suppliers, or anyone else who would like to help drive change and improvement through education, standards, safety and professionalism.”
If you would like to join the APFA to help them to meet the needs of those in the industry visit www.apfa.net.au