What is your current role?

I’m a Habia board member, College Lecturer at Trafford College Group, Director of nail competitions and head judge for the FNP & Professional Beauty Magazine, working with Nailympia and level 3 Chief nail examiner for City & Guilds. I believe being a board member of Habia is very important for me and my career as it is the voice of our industry to government and employers in the whole hair, beauty, spa and nails sector on education and skills issues and how these affect businesses. Whether you are a business owner, employee or student, Habia can offer advice on a whole range of issues. You can find the latest legislation and health and safety updates, search for training providers and view the latest codes of practice for your specialist area.

How did you get into the beauty industry?

I managed a beauty and sunbed salon and thought nails would fit in well with the other services we offered. I always loved nails but there were not many courses around when I began in this industry 30 years ago. I managed to find a course in a wholesaler’s store with Star Nails and then I was hooked.

What advice would you give to people who are thinking about getting started in the beauty industry?

Firstly, I would advise anyone coming into any industry to gain their qualifications. When searching for courses always research the courses in your area and ask questions. It is important to understand what you will be learning and what qualification the course will give you.

What would you say is your proudest moment or event in your professional life?

I won a Scratch Stars award for services to the nail industry in 2015 and was voted the most popular industry expert in 2008 by the readers of Scratch Magazine. I also love seeing learners open salons and win competitions and growing within the industry.

What are your hopes for Habia in the next 5 years? 

I hope Habia can stay at the forefront of our industry and be a guiding light for everyone involved across hair, beauty and nails. With the upcoming regulations and consumers becoming more aware of standards in our industry my wishes are for Habia to be there, sharing this important information with everyone.