Mariem Belkyal

In my home country of Morrocco, I used to be a beauty therapist for 18 years for a well-known hotel. I also had completed a bachelor’s degree. Once I was married, I came on a student visa to the UK with my husband shortly after we had a daughter. We didn’t have any other family UK. Unfortunately, I went through marital issues, and it was just me and my daughter now. I needed to look for work in the sector I have most experience and passion for unfortunately those jobs were mainly in London, but I was living outside London at the time. I persevered and found a part-time job at the four seasons hotel.  

I had to wake up 4am daily, It was difficult to travel back and forth to London so eventually my friend offered to look after my daughter so I could work and visit the council to discuss the options I had to live in London eventually they gave me a place. 

One day I was walking past WAES and wanted to know more and that’s how I got to know about the different courses they offered. My English wasn’t that great so I thought it would be a good idea to learn but also learn make up and acquire a certificate that is recognisable in the UK and achieve my dream of being a beauty therapist in the UK. 

Studying Level 2 Media Make-up really helped me in my current job when it came to health and safety. I was able to adapt some of the things I’ve learnt at work. Level 2 media make up I studied more about beauty therapy helped me in my job the health and safety. The teaching for this course has been very good. My tutor is very supporting. Louise shares her industry experience with us, it very wholesome. When I enter the classroom, it doesn’t feel like class I can be very open with everyone. 

My greatest achievement at WAES is the confidence I’ve gained. The techniques and make up products I’ve learnt about have aided my knowledge which is valuable. I’ve also been fortunate to be part of the World Skills Competition and Dance Westminster.  

In the future I hope to complete my Level 3 in Media Make-up and hope open a mini spa for women which will help me work my own hours s I can spend more time with my daughter.  

WAES is not just for a certificate but it’s also for those wanting to be part of a community. It’s a chance to gain new skills or build on your knowledge which is the most valuable thing you could do for yourself. The support I have received from WAES has been great, especially with childcare costs, knowing my daughter is safe at her afterschool club whilst I’m able to learn gives me peace of mind.