Fashion and makeup have always been very significant to me, as it allows me to express myself in my unique style. In the world of today, where diversity and inclusivity are so important, I strive to help and inspire people through fashion and makeup, to give them a chance to be themselves and be comfortable in their own skin.

I am currently studying Media, Photography, and Creative Digital Media Production. In photography, I am inspired to think outside the box and explore my creative side whereas in Media and Media Production I have learned practical skills such as photo and video editing. I have also learned to effectively create and manage a blog on Wix.com - a platform I often use to display my own projects. I used my written and research skills in my photography personal study, where I researched the impact of the fashion industry on shaping and influencing our world and concluded that it holds a lot of power over us and if it is done incorrectly, it can misshape people's view of themselves.

In Early 2022, I met makeup artist Lan Nguyen-Grealis. She taught me, through practical sessions and discussions, the importance of upholding professionalism within the creative sector and how to adapt my makeup techniques to different circumstances. I read Lan’s book titled ‘Pro Makeup Design Book’ and found it a major source of creative inspiration. I was particularly inspired by the sections on using face charts to plan out each makeup design. I assisted Lan at IA London’s ‘Beautifully Broken’ collection at Women’s London Fashion Week (LFW) and experienced the working environment of renowned fashion shows. Working with Lan’s team and the Toni & Guy network, which I was already familiar with, I learned to apply my makeup knowledge and skills whilst working under pressure. I helped prepare their celebrity guest ‘AURORA’ for the runway, alongside many other models, and gained an invaluable insight into the highly pressured and chaotic environment that is backstage at an LFW show.

Currently, I work in front of the house at a Toni & Guy salon. I manage client appointments and payments while consulting with the team and assisting when needed. My experiences there have allowed me to develop my organizational and interpersonal skills, professionalism, and time management. I am also being taught hair styling techniques to a high standard by the salon’s artistic Director. Previously, I worked in a local fashion boutique where I advised clients on their styling choices. Additionally, I manage a professional Instagram page promoting my work to potential clients.

I participate in my school’s Equality/ Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion committee (EDI) and I am one of the school’s official Allies. As an ally, I assist and support the students with any personal issues they are dealing with. I also mentor a Year 7 form group, helping them navigate the transfer from primary to secondary school and engaging them in weekly discussions on varied topics such as body image and homework.

I continue to practice my hair and makeup skills with clients and models in my spare time. I assist with the school productions, where I am head of hair and makeup. This entails designing hair and makeup looks to fit the characters, doing the makeup and hair of all the cast on the night of the show, and helping to design and source the costumes and props as well as making some.

Finally, I have taken over the school magazine with two other students and written articles, that focus on popular makeup and fashion trends, allowing me to use my skills in photoshop and photography but also hone my written skills.

I look forward to my further studies as they will allow me to explore my interests in fashion and makeup styling as well as develop my knowledge of fashion promotion and equip me with the skills I need for the future.