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The path to discovering your passion isn’t always straightforward. For Monique, a mother of two, pursued her passion in 2024 after years of contemplation. Her journey to becoming a beauty therapist at Ella Baché College was one of growth, and a desire to help others.
Finding Her Way to Beauty Therapy
After finishing school, Monique spent three years working in an office before transitioning into aged care nursing, a role she dedicated herself to for five years. While rewarding, it could at times prove to be emotionally and physically taxing.
So, after taking four years off to focus on raising her two children, Monique decided she wanted a change.
“I couldn’t go back to nursing after my time off with my kids. Mentally, I was in the head space of wanting to do something different,” she explains.
Skincare had always been of interest for Monique. She had struggled with problematic skin through her teens and 20s and so she had developed a deep appreciation for the transformative power of good skincare. “In the last two years, my skin has gotten really good, and I want to help people love their skin like I do now.”
Taking the Leap
For years, Monique had considered studying beauty therapy. She first enquired with Ella Baché College several years ago but didn’t feel ready to take the leap.
“It was always on my mind, but it wasn’t until last year that I decided to just do it,” she shares. “Changing careers felt daunting at first—when you’re in your early 20s, you feel like you have to figure out your whole life. But I’m 31 now, and I’ve finally decided what I want to do: skincare and beauty therapy.”
It was Monique’s passion for skin health that drove her to make the change. Having experienced first-hand the impact of skin issues on self-confidence, she is determined to help others, especially young girls, navigate their skin journeys.
“I’m most passionate about skin—the facial side of beauty therapy. I want to educate young girls and help them feel confident in their own skin. Self-confidence is everything.”
Why Ella Baché College?
Monique’s decision to study at Ella Baché College was influenced by the experiences of others.
“I saw a few girls on social media who had studied at Ella Baché, and that’s how I first heard about the College,” she says. “Facebook and Instagram is probably where I heard about the course, but I don’t remember exactly what led me here—I just knew it was the right choice once I went through the application process.”
Highlights of the Journey So Far
Monique began her studies in March 2024 and is set to graduate in July 2025. Reflecting on her experience, she says:
“I’ve really enjoyed learning new treatments, like lash lifts. I thought my favourite part would be skin, but lashes have been a fun surprise. I find them relaxing and therapeutic to do. Facials have been great too—there’s so much to learn.”
For Monique, the on-campus, hands-on experience has been invaluable. “It keeps me motivated and engaged,” she adds.
Her Must-Have Treatment and Product
When asked about her go-to treatment and product, Monique could pass up SPF.
“SPF, for sure! From how bad my skin used to be to what I know now; SPF is the best product you couldn't use. It’s so important for protecting your skin. I especially recommend the Ella Baché Great SPF50+ Facesaver Lotion. As for treatments, I love anything with microdermabrasion and facials—they give that spa-like experience.”
Advice for Those Considering a Career Change
Having taken the leap herself, Monique simply says:
“Just do it. You can ponder on it for so long—I did for five years—and I was too scared, but I wish now that I’d done it sooner. It’s cliché, but it’s true: just go for it.”
What’s Next for Monique?
With Monique finishing next year, she has big plans.
“Long term, I’d love to own a salon and work for myself. Short term, I’m excited to work in a salon to gain experience and build my knowledge. But owning my own salon is definitely the goal one day.”
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