Resilience and determination at The Gordon

Azizeh Maher has a passion for beauty therapy and has carved a path of inspiration and empowerment.

Ms Maher is a proud Afghan woman who studied a Diploma of Beauty Therapy at The Gordon and comes from a community where higher education for women isn’t always the norm.

“In Geelong we have a small Afghan community, and I unfortunately don’t see more women pursuing their studies in higher education,” Ms Maher said.

“I believe, with me completing this course, I can be a good role model for younger girls in the Afghan community.”

Ms Maher now works at Saltair Spa in Torquay where her manager Kelly says she excels, going the extra mile for her customers.

“She’s just amazing. She can do everything, and if someone is struggling, she’ll just jump in and help straight away.”

Recently, Ms Maher won the Hair and Beauty category award at The Gordon Awards for Excellence night, which recognised her commitment to her studies in beaty therapy.

“When I found out I was nominated for this award I was really excited,” Ms Maher said.

“It was a bit hard to believe at first, but surely one of the biggest achievements of my life so far.”

Ms Maher credits The Gordon for the hands-on environment that prepared her for the workforce and said being a student there was the best experience.

“There was lots of support for students, especially for students who have English as their second language.”

The Gordon’s quality of training was also acknowledged by Saltair Spa owner and founder Tamara Mellis.

“We choose to hire graduates from The Gordon because of their exceptional level of preparedness and readiness for the industry. Their graduates thrive in professional environments,” she said.

For those wanting to learn more about a career in beauty therapy, The Gordon is holding an information session on May 7 from 5:30pm.

To register, head to thegordon.edu.au/courses/upcoming-information-sessions