Hair industry trailblazer Tony Rizzo, founder of The Alternative Hair Charitable Foundation, has been awarded an MBE in the 2024 New Year Honours for his contributions to leukemia research and support for children affected by the disease.
Estetica Magazine celebrates the recognition of Antonio John (Tony) Rizzo, founder of The Alternative Hair Charitable Foundation, for receiving an MBE in the 2024 New Year Honours List, recognizing his outstanding charitable contributions to leukemia research and support for children battling the disease. The Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) is a prestigious honor awarded by His Majesty King Charles III, recognizing outstanding contributions and achievements in various fields, including the arts, sciences, charitable work, and public service. Tony Rizzo, who immigrated from Italy to the UK in the 1960s, transformed personal tragedy into a global movement, raising over £15 million for leukemia research and providing support for families affected by blood cancer. His vision and unwavering dedication have not only saved lives but also infused the industry with unparalleled creativity.
This morning, Estetica Magazine had the privilege of speaking with Tony Rizzo about his recognition as an MBE. Reflecting on the honor, Tony shared: “I am deeply thankful for this recognition, but most of all, I want to express my gratitude to everyone who has supported the Alternative Hair Show over its 42 incredible years. From the amazing hairdressing teams who have worked tirelessly and covered all their own expenses, to the media, like Estetica, who have championed our mission along the way—I feel incredibly lucky and cannot thank you all enough.”
Tony also took a moment to reflect on his remarkable journey: “For an Italian boy who came to the UK in the 1960s at the age of 8, with no shoes, this is a huge honor. My life has been about giving back, and I hope this recognition not only celebrates that journey but also helps to elevate our industry further.” Tony concluded with a heartfelt wish: “My greatest desire is that one day we can say we’ve cured children’s leukemia—that’s the real important thing in this story.”
Tony’s journey began in 1983, following the devastating loss of his first-born son, Valentino, to leukemia. Determined to make a difference, Tony and his wife Maggie reached out to their network of hairdressing professionals to create a unique fundraising initiative: The Alternative Hair Show. This groundbreaking event debuted at London’s Camden Palace, raising £7,500 in its first year. Since then, it has evolved into a cornerstone of the international hairdressing calendar, raising millions for life-saving research and family support.
At each event, Tony organized an additional appeal to support families of children with leukemia, funding respite days out. These have included trips to London Zoo, Legoland, and even weekends at Disneyland Paris, offering families a much-needed escape from hospitals and treatment. Attendees also receive gift-filled goodie bags, generously donated by the hairdressing industry. The Alternative Hair Show not only brings joy but also fosters connection among families facing similar challenges.
The Alternative Hair Show is renowned for its artistic brilliance, showcasing the work of over 200 international hairdressing teams across venues like London’s Royal Albert Hall and cities worldwide, including New York, Tokyo, and Vienna. Beyond its artistic achievements, The Alternative Hair Show has made an indelible impact: today, thanks to advancements in medical research supported by these efforts, the survival rate for children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia has risen from 10% in the 1960s to 90%.
Estetica Magazine has proudly supported The Alternative Hair Show since its inception, witnessing its growth and impact firsthand. We are overjoyed to celebrate Tony Rizzo’s well-deserved recognition as an MBE, a testament to his exceptional vision, compassion, and dedication to transforming lives through hairdressing and charity.
Tony now joins an exclusive list of esteemed hairdressers who have been awarded an MBE, including Trevor Sorbie MBE, Errol Douglas MBE, and Sam McKnight MBE, among others—making his achievement even more remarkable as he is likely the first immigrant in the industry to receive this honor.
