Black Beauty Roster & Time’s Up UK: A Turning Point for Diversity in Makeup and Hair Artistry

The push for greater representation in makeup and hair artistry has taken a significant step forward with the announcement of a new certification initiative led by Time’s Up UK in collaboration with the Black Beauty Roster. Highlighted in a recent industry article, this initiative directly addresses ongoing issues of discrimination and lack of representation in hair and makeup departments across film and television. Notably,

Liz Tagg, Co-founder, Principal and CEO at The Iver Makeup Academy, was invited to join the leadership council, reinforcing the Academy’s commitment to advancing equitable standards across the industry.

For years, performers, particularly those with deeper skin tones or textured hair, have reported inconsistent or inadequate support on set. The introduction of a formal certification framework marks a turning point, aiming to ensure that all professionals working in the industry are equipped with the skills required to serve diverse talent.

As a result, Inclusive makeup and hair skills are no longer a niche consideration; they are becoming a professional standard.

Understanding the Time’s Up UK Certification Initiative

The article outlines how Time’s Up UK and the Black Beauty Roster are working together to establish a certification system that production companies can rely on when hiring hair and makeup artists. The goal is straightforward: eliminate the skill gaps that lead to discrimination and ensure every performer receives equal, professional treatment.

The initiative focuses on creating an official certification board, setting measurable standards for representative skills, providing a trusted directory of qualified professionals, and holding productions accountable for hiring appropriately trained artists. By formalising these expectations, the certification shifts responsibility away from individuals raising concerns and towards a structured system that proactively prevents issues from arising.

Why This Matters for the Industry

One of the key takeaways from the article is that the lack of broad-based skills has long been an open secret within the industry. Many performers have had to bring their own products or manage their own hair and makeup on set due to a lack of expertise from the artists provided.

Addressing this gap ensures that all performers are treated equally and professionally, that productions run more efficiently without last-minute problems, that creative visions are executed accurately across all looks, and that the industry better reflects the diversity of its audiences. The case for change is professional as much as it is ethical. As productions become more diverse, the demand for artists with these skills continues to grow, and those without them will find themselves at a disadvantage.

What the Certification Means for Aspiring Makeup and Hair Artists

The introduction of this certification sends a clear message to anyone entering the field: broad, representative skills are essential, not supplementary. Training programmes must reflect real-world requirements, ensuring students are fully prepared for professional environments before they step on set.

For aspiring artists, this means building a portfolio that showcases diverse models, gaining confidence across all skin tones and hair textures, choosing training that aligns with current industry expectations, and developing cultural awareness as part of their professional practice.

At The Iver Makeup Academy, these values have always been central to how we teach. Our Advanced Certificate in Makeup and Hair Artistry and our Industry Ready Certificate in Makeup and Hair Artistry both provide comprehensive, hands-on training designed to meet the evolving demands of the industry, with strong emphasis on working confidently and competently across all skin tones and hair types.

The Role of Training in Supporting Certification Standards

As the article makes clear, certification alone cannot transform the industry without proper education sitting behind it. Training institutions carry a significant responsibility in preparing artists to meet these new expectations, and the quality of that training will increasingly determine who is ready to work at a professional level.

High-quality education ensures that students gain hands-on experience with diverse clients, learn techniques suited to HD, film, and theatre environments, understand professional set etiquette, and develop the adaptability needed across different creative briefs. At The Iver Makeup Academy, our curriculum reflects the realities of modern production. Through practical training and expert guidance, students develop the technical confidence required to work at the standard the industry now demands. For those looking to develop specific skills, our short courses offer focused learning opportunities that reinforce these principles throughout.

A Cultural Shift Towards Accountability

What makes this initiative particularly significant is its emphasis on accountability. Rather than leaving the burden with individual performers or artists raising concerns, the certification system encourages production companies to take responsibility for hiring properly trained professionals. Inclusion is becoming measurable and enforceable, standards are being clearly defined, and professionals are expected to meet consistent benchmarks. This represents a meaningful shift in how the industry operates, moving diversity from a discussion point into a requirement backed by structured, industry-wide support.

The Future of Makeup and Hair Artistry

The collaboration between Time’s Up UK and the Black Beauty Roster signals long-term, systemic change. As certification becomes more widely adopted, it will influence hiring practices, shape training programmes, and raise overall expectations across the industry. We can expect increased demand for certified professionals, greater emphasis on representative training within education, stronger representation both on and off screen, and continued evolution of the standards that define professional practice.

For aspiring artists, the direction of travel is clear. Those who invest in comprehensive, broad-based training will be best positioned to build lasting careers in a field that is becoming more accountable, more representative, and more demanding of genuine expertise.

Conclusion

The certification initiative led by Time’s Up UK and the Black Beauty Roster marks a defining moment for the makeup and hair artistry profession. By addressing long-standing gaps and setting clear, measurable standards, it is helping to build an industry that is more professional, more representative, and more accountable to the talent it serves.

For students and professionals alike, this shift reinforces the importance of proper training and continuous development. The future of makeup and hair artistry belongs to those who can work confidently across all skin tones and hair types while meeting the highest professional standards. If you are ready to build a career aligned with those expectations, explore our courses or speak to the team at The Iver Makeup Academy to find the right pathway for you.