“As the world’s leading hair care brand we are extremely excited to be hosting the Pantene Woman Award 2010. This Award is a first of its kind in South Africa and a celebration of South African women and beautiful hair,” says Leanne Davidson, Brand PR Manager at Proctor & Gamble and part of the company’s marketing team responsible for the Pantene Woman Award.

The Pantene Woman Award 2010 is a nationwide search for the South African woman with the most beautiful hair. Over 500 entries were judged by members of Pantene’s expert panel from which the ten finalists were selected. The winner will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony in September and will receive a grand prize of R100 000.

The judges for the competition include members of the recently established Pantene Expert Panel, including top South African hair stylist, Huey Tilley; fashion and design journalist, Jacquie Myburgh; and South African celebrity, Jena Dover. Additional judges include Deputy Editor at Cosmo, Cathy Lund, and External Relations manager at Procter & Gamble South Africa, Khululiwe Mabaso.

“We were overwhelmed by the response - choosing no more than ten finalists was a difficult task. All ten finalists exude strength; beauty; and vitality - they are empowered woman who are confident enough to let their personalities shine through. Selecting one winner is not going to be easy,” says Leanne Davidson.

“Pantene is celebrating women who continually pursue achieving their individual beauty potential. Putting time and effort into the way you look, and therefore feel, is something that should be acknowledged and rewarded. Now there is finally proof that having beautiful hair can actually be life changing,” says Huey Tilley.

“The Pantene Woman Award is about so much more than the prize money. For our finalists and winner, who will be recognised for their beautiful hair, the experience of being the centre of all this glamorous attention will be a truly unique experience - and a reminder that we should all take the time to look after our greatest feminine asset - our hair,” says Jacquie Myburgh.

“The Pantene Woman Award is a unique opportunity for one special young lady who not only exudes beautiful, healthy hair, but also sense of confidence; self worth; and humility. I would like the award to go to someone who will use the opportunity to her great advantage, because Pantene girls are go-getters,” says Jena Dover.