L'Oréal Australia and Kangan Institute support the next generation ofaspiring beauty professionals

Left to Right: Alexandra, Annalyse, Gwen and Antoinette

L'Oréal Australia and Kangan Institute have partnered for a second year to create the L’Oréal Beauty For All scholarship program, to help people facing hardship pursue a rewarding career in the beauty industry.

The Beauty For All scholarships program aims to engage with passionate individuals who have the motivation to start a career in the beauty industry, and make it a reality.

The students were recognised at an awards ceremony at L'Oréal Australia in Melbourne on Tuesday 13th August, with the awards presented by Neil Coulson, Victorian Skills Commissioner. Four scholarships, equating to $48,000 in total, will cover the recipients’ full tuition expenses at Kangan Institute.

“Skills development and education are paramount to an individual’s confidence, future prosperity and ultimately benefits their entire community. L’Oréal’s Beauty for All scholarship demonstrates a real commitment to bettering the lives of those who have experienced disadvantage and supports some of our most vulnerable in getting the training they need for the job they want,” said Neil Coulson, Victorian Skills Commissioner.

This scholarship program is part of L'Oréal's Sharing Beauty With All commitment to advance sustainable practices across all aspects of the business. By 2020, the L'Oréal Group will have enabled 100,000 people from underprivileged communities, equivalent to our global workforce, access to work.

“We are thrilled to assist four inspiring women to complete their diploma of beauty therapy. They have already proved their commitment, motivation and resilience before even starting their careers, which will give them a true competitive edge,” said Christine Burke, Communications Director at L'Oréal Australia.

“The Beauty for All program reflects L’Oréal’s unwavering commitment to skills excellence in the beauty industry and we’re proud to be their training partners on this endeavour. This program proves just what we can achieve and the lives we can change when TAFE and industry come together,” said Phill Murphy, CEO at Kangan Institute.

MEET THE SCHOLARS:

Alexandra is a beauty entrepreneur, already running an eyelash extension business with desires to expand the beauty services she offers to help her clients feel beautiful and happy.

“I want to continue to learn and grow so I can improve not only myself but my business and make sure that my clients are provided with the highest quality service and products.”

Recently finishing high school and seeking further employment opportunities, Alexandra is excited for the challenge that expanding her business will provide. This scholarship will assist Alexandra in completing her studies and developing the necessary expertise.

Annalyse is devoted to pursuing her studies and doing what she loves. Annalyse aspires to one day own a beauty salon alongside her sister, as well as pursuing further studies within Dermal Sciences, to understand how to care for and treat skin.

“I love making people feel better about themselves in some way, in beauty it’s a lot to do with making someone feel comfortable in their own skin and making them feel beautiful.”

This scholarship will allow Annalyse to complete her studies after putting it off due to the financial difficulty. Annalyse wants to build confidence after experiencing symptoms associated with general anxiety and depression. Annalyse is motivated to better herself and enjoy doing what she loves.

Gwen, has a passion for makeup and beauty, stemming from a love of creativity, art and freedom. She looks towards artists such as Hyemin Park, Dain Yoon, Pat McGrath and Patric Ta for inspiration, furthering her passion to be a beauty professional and try alternative makeup applications. When Gwen graduates she hopes to start her own beauty business.

“Education has always been a priority in my life. Coming from an immigrant family it’s always been ingrained in my mind that education is my pathway to success.”

After suffering both familial and financial challenges, Gwen is now legally independent and supported by the Government in student housing. Gwen has a longing to give back, participating in charity work, ‘Christmas on the streets’, where she provides beauty service to the homeless community in Melbourne.

Antoinette has always been interested in the beauty industry, with the goal of working for a beauty company or owning her own business. A beauty junkie at heart, Antoinette follows beauty bloggers and makeup artists such as James Charles, to learn the latest trends, and expand her skills and knowledge.

“I love that beauty has no limits, and that it allows you to express yourself. I want to have the knowledge on all beauty treatments, and to be able to achieve any makeup look.”

Recently moving from country Victoria and living independently, Antoinette works part-time to meet expenses. Until now, Antoinette has had to postpone professional beauty training. This scholarship now provides the opportunity to complete this qualification.