Guest Judge, Howard Kong Cherng Xiao

Howard Kong Cherng Xiao is a renowned Malaysian makeup artist who has made a significant impact in the beauty industry. With a passion for creativity and an eye for detail, Howard has become a go-to makeup artist for numerous high-profile clients across the globe.

Born and raised in Malaysia, Howard discovered his passion for makeup at a young age, inspired by his mother and her make-up looks. He started experimenting with different looks and techniques, honing his skills through self-study and practice. Despite initially pursuing a career in hospital management, it was soon clear that Howard was destined for another career path. Howard's dedication and natural talent caught the attention of industry professionals and in 2019 he began his journey as a professional makeup artist.

Howard has worked with notable clients and has established a strong reputation in the makeup industry. His expertise and attention to detail have attracted a loyal clientele who trust him to enhance their natural beauty. Howard has worked with numerous celebrities from the entertainment industry, creating stunning looks for red carpet events and photoshoots. Prominent fashion brands have also sought out Howard's expertise to create captivating makeup looks for their runway shows and advertising campaigns. Howard has also collaborated with renowned photographers and stylists for editorial shoots, contributing his artistic vision to create captivating visuals for magazines and publications.

One of Howard's career highlights was his involvement with the makeup team led by Emilie Louizides for Hauz Labs by Lady Gaga. This collaboration allowed Howard to showcase his talent and work alongside renowned artists in the industry. 

Howard's exceptional talent caught the attention of the producers of BBC Three's ‘Glow Up’, a highly popular reality show that showcases the skills and creativity of makeup artists. Howard was selected to compete in the show's latest season, where he faced challenging tasks and intense competition from other talented artists.

Throughout his journey on Glow Up, Howard demonstrated his versatility, creativity, and unwavering determination to succeed. His ability to think outside the box and create unique makeup looks under pressure impressed the judges and viewers alike. Although the competition was tough, Howard's talent and professionalism shone through, earning him a place among the top contestants.

Howard's experience on Glow Up not only provided him with a platform to showcase his skills to a wider audience but also allowed him to learn from industry experts and further refine his craft.

Howard is a highly talented and accomplished makeup artist who has already established himself as a notable figure in the industry, but the best is yet to come! With his exceptional skills, he will no doubt leave an indelible mark in the beauty industry and we are beyond thrilled that he has chosen to take time out of his busy schedule to be a guest judge for our FOBISIA Stage Make-Up Challenge 2023!