Mengeh Sinyan

I was studying Hairdressing and Beauty at another College, but I had to stop because the classes moved online during Covid. Later, while browsing Facebook, I came across an advert that caught my attention. I had actually been searching for a suitable course for about a year, since the one at the other college was only a three-month fast-track course, which wasn’t convenient for me as a single parent. Three months felt too short, so I kept looking until I found this opportunity on Facebook. I called right away and booked an appointment for enrolment. I went on to study Level 2 and Level 3 Hairdressing. After completing Level 3 Hairdressing, I decided to continue my education by taking Level 3 Media Make-up, since I had already completed Level 2 previously.

I was a stay-at-home mum, taking care of my two daughters. After some time, I started to feel quite bored being at home alone, so I thought to myself, I really love makeup. Whenever I do my own makeup, I always receive a lot of compliments from people. That made me realise I should do something with my passion for makeup instead of just staying at home. I never went to university, so I decided it was time to follow my interest and build a skill I truly enjoy.

In general I just love special effects makeup because it’s more than just makeup — it’s a form of storytelling. It allows people to express themselves creatively and bring characters or emotions to life in a completely unique way. My class is also like a family to me.

I was inspired to go into SFX makeup because it’s so much more creative, and there are so many opportunities within the industry. I’ve always loved the artistic side of beauty, and special effects really allows me to express that. I also went on quite a few trips to beauty expos and networking events, which helped me see just how much potential there is in this field.

If it wasn’t for Louise, my tutor, pushing me, I honestly wouldn’t be where I am today. She’s like a mother to me. When I was doing my Level 2 Hairdressing, I was going through a difficult time. I had just come out of a breakup and was struggling with depression. Even then, I kept going because I didn’t want to just stay at home. At the time, I was working 16 hours a week at Morrisons, and after picking up my kids from the after-school club, I wouldn’t get home until around 7 pm. By then, I was exhausted and just wanted to rest. Because of that, I found it hard to keep up with my assignments, I was great at the practical work, but I struggled with the theory.

Eventually, one of the course leads told me I might not be able to progress to Level 3. But I didn’t give up. I was doing work experience in a salon in Westferry through WAES, and when I explained my situation to Louise, she spoke to the head of the department and helped me move forward. That opportunity changed everything for me. From then on, I pulled myself together, motivated myself, and changed my mindset completely. I also met my new partner, who’s been very supportive and has helped make life a bit easier. All of that gave me the strength and inspiration to focus on my goals and that’s how I found my passion for special effects makeup.

My greatest achievement has to be Louise introducing me to the WorldSkills UK competition and encouraged me to give it a try. At first, I was a bit sceptical, but I thought, why not just go for it? The competition started with around 800 participants! In the first round, our task was to create makeup for someone who had been in an accident on their way home. I had to source my own model, so I did plenty of research and found the right costume and materials to bring my idea to life.

I was thrilled to make it through to the next round — and from there, I advanced to the semi-finals in Oxford, and now to the national finals! I honestly couldn’t believe it. I feel so privileged and honoured to be in this position, and it’s motivated me even more to keep pushing forward and achieve great things, no matter the outcome. The National Finals will be held from the 26th to the 28th of November in South Wales, and I’m really looking forward to the experience.

I’ve gained experience to help me in the future. Through developing myself, building self-belief, and gaining confidence in my professional skills and personality, I’ve grown so much — and it all truly began when I joined WAES. When I started my hairdressing course, one of my first big opportunities was being sent to work at the London Fashion Show in 2022 — about three years ago. That experience was incredible and marked my first introduction to the fashion industry. Since then, I’ve been involved in several exciting projects, including Grassroots and an editorial shoot for Brief Magazine, which was published. I also worked for three days doing makeup for the ITV television series Sorry I Didn’t Know. Each of these experiences has helped me grow both creatively and professionally.

My goal for the future is to become number one and win the competition. After that, I plan to see where the experience takes me. I’ll actively seek networking opportunities and continue building connections to grow my career further. This course has also had a positive impact on my family. My children see how well I’m doing, and it inspires them to learn and make progress too. They’re very proud of me, and it’s brought my partner, my children, and me much closer together as a family.

If you are looking to study at WAES definetely enrol because there are opportunities here like nowhere else. Studying here really opened doors for me.