Melinda’s kindness knows no bounds

In her over eight and a half years with TAFE Queensland, Melinda has used her passion for hairdressing and education to mentor and inspire the next generation of professionals.

Her approach to teaching is grounded in compassion, patiently connecting with students on a personal level to become a trusted mentor and deliver lessons to help them achieve their dreams.

“Teaching young people does come with its challenges, but the rewards of seeing students from various backgrounds succeed make the role inspiring all worthwhile,” Melinda explained.

Melinda’s proudest moments come from fostering a supportive and motivating environment to help troubled teens overcome personal challenges as they study.

“One student stands out in my memory - a young woman who completed the course, secured an apprenticeship, and eventually became a salon manager, overseeing all aspects of the business,” she shared.

“From flexibility, job security, career opportunities and social mobility, hairdressing is a fantastic career choice for anyone seeking a role that blends creativity, customer service and social interaction.”

“Hairdressers also enjoy flexible hours, the chance to own their businesses, and opportunities to specialise in areas like colouring, styling, or salon management.”

“As a hairdresser, your skills are portable, enabling you to work abroad, and play a key role in boosting clients' self-esteem, making the work both rewarding and fulfilling.”

Even as inflation pushes the consumer price index higher and higher, November job data from Seek revealed that hairdresser wages increased 29.7 per cent, staying ahead of the curve.

In her teaching role, Melinda particularly enjoys witnessing her students’ training journeys, from commencement to completion and seeing them achieve career success.

From TAFE at School courses to full-time students, Melinda teaches various courses catered to high school students, apprentices, those new to the workforce, and those changing careers.

“Seeing students at all levels achieve their study and career accomplishments and helping them secure their future is something I’m incredibly proud of,” Melinda said.

“I love seeing students become empowered as their skills develop and when they realise they’re finished, qualified, capable and confident - and they’re so proud of themselves.”

Melinda loves sharing her expertise with students, teaching them technical skills to stay creative and connected to the industry.

“Being active in the classroom also keeps me constantly learning from my students, especially when I visit their salons,” she added.

Melinda’s advice is simple for those thinking about teaching: sharing your passion and skills is incredibly rewarding.

Her experience as a TAFE Queensland educator shows the variety and inspiration that comes with the role.

“No day is the same - some are inspiring, others bring challenges. But sharing your passion and knowledge and seeing students have those ‘ah-ha’ moments makes it all worth it,” she said.

Her impact on students’ lives is immeasurable. Melinda’s dedication to her students is evident in everything she does, from her positive attitude in the classroom to her ability to connect with individuals on a deeper level.