As the audience at the Jamaica Pegasus cheered, Lakayda Brown stood on the stage of the JN Small Business Loans ( JNSBL) Barber & Beauty Expo teary-eyed.

Moments later, as she held her cheque, smiling and acknowledging the admiration of the crowd, it was clear she was still coming to the realisation that she was the winning hairdresser of the JNSBL Barber and Beauty Challenge.

The challenge was open to barbers and hairdressers, who sent in their best before-and-after photos. From those entries, 25 were selected from the voting round via Facebook. the top six barbers and top six hairdressers competed in four challenge rounds.

Brown, who operates from Chimere's First Class Hair and Nails Salon, Hughenden Pharmacy Plaza, St Andrew, won $500,000. Tanesha Barrett was second and received $300,000; Marie Marsh received $100,000 for third

In the barbers section, Sly Scott won $500,000, Alrick Parris $300,000 and Marlon Phillips $100,000.

"I am overwhelmed to know that I have won and that my hard work has paid off," said Brown, minutes after being presented with her trophy.

"I once entered a similar competition in beauty school, about eight years ago, and finished second. I am happy that I won now. this one really means a lot to me," she said.

Scott was hoisted by his supporters after his name was announced. Scott, based in Westmoreland, smiled broadly as he collected his cheque.

"I feel elated, knowing I am a part of this event which is being held for the first time, and I must thank JN because it feels good, knowing that an organisation could do something like this for the industry," Scott said.

Gillian Hyde, general manager, JNSBL, praised the winners.

"The talent on display here today was exceptional and I'm grateful to those who decided to participate. They showed confidence in carrying out the different challenges," she said.