Your skills can make a difference

Hosted at The Studio, The Gordon’s hair and beauty training salon, the experience formed part of the Peace of Mind Foundation Women’s Retreat, which gives women the opportunity to connect, recharge and take a break from the challenges that come with a brain cancer diagnosis. The retreat brings women together to connect with others in similar circumstances and to simply find happiness in the moment.

Throughout the day, students welcomed more than 30 women taking part in the pamper day, providing hair and beauty treatments in a relaxed and supportive environment.

From styling hair and beauty treatments to sharing conversations and moments of connection, students saw first-hand how their skills can positively impact the wellbeing of others.

Amber Williams, Beauty teacher at The Gordon said:

One of the most rewarding parts of working in this industry is seeing the difference you can make to someone’s day and the impact hair and beauty professionals can have beyond the salon.

Experiences like this help students understand that hair and beauty is about people. It’s about helping someone feel comfortable and cared for. And that’s a powerful skill to have. One that stays with you throughout your whole career.

For students, the experience offered more than practical training. It was an opportunity to build confidence, strengthen client communication skills and work with real clients while giving back to the community.

The pamper day was delivered in partnership with the Peace of Mind FoundationAustralia’s leading brain cancer support charity. Each year, the organisation supports more than 1,000 families through practical support programs, retreats, advocacy and community events.

Bec Mallett, founder of Peace of Mind Foundation said the partnership with The Gordon plays an important role in supporting participants during a challenging time. 

What stands out the most about these days is the sense of connection and community they create.

Brain cancer often affects people in the prime of their lives. When they’re raising families, at the peak of their career or planning for their future. The emotional and financial impact is a heavy burden. 

These days are important because it’s a time they can simply relax and step away from those pressures.

Bec says it’s incredibly special to witness strangers come together and see genuine connections and friendships form. 

“The Gordon students bring such warmth and an environment where our participants really feel supported and cared for.” 

These kinds of experiences are part of what makes studying Hair and Beauty at The Gordon different. 

If you’re looking to work in a salon, specialise in beauty therapy, explore creative styling or build your own business, you’ll graduate with more than technical skills. You’ll leave with the confidence to connect with people, create positive experiences and make a difference through your work.