Elyssa C

My experience at CJMA is one that I will value in my career. From someone who is a qualified hairdresser that had no make up experience, I learnt fast and absorbed so much information about the various areas in the make up industry as there is more to it than being a glamour make up artist. Our trainers were highly experienced and full of tips and tricks that will stick with you forever. You don’t just learn about the practical side, you also learn about the history of make up and how to establish yourself as a professional which will help expand your knowledge and creativity. To be able to get pushed to start your portfolio will force you to think where you want to be in your career. To be able start early and have that stepping stool to showcase your work is a great help to prove that you are a professional. What other school can get you a published page of your work in an established magazine? CJMA gave my class the opportunity to not only collaborate with LAUD Magazine but to also be guided by well respected individuals in the industry such as Becca Gil Martin, Thom Kerr and Iggy Rosales. CJMA is a well respected Make Up Academy in the industry which means it is well trusted by established artists and business’ to take a young talent on board for work or assistance. It is a great way to connect with other artists for further work opportunities in the future and you gain more knowledge about the industry. I was able to have confidence in seeking freelancing opportunities for work in hair and makeup. I was able to assist other artists knowing that I had the skills and that I will be learning more after I had finished my diploma. I worked at blow dry bar where they allowed to be a hair and make up artist. I’ve had opportunities to assist Iggy Rosales with more shoots with Laud Magazine and brand shoots. I was able to assist one of my trainers, Teneille Sorgiovanni, in a Top Shop campaign and she had the confidence in me to help with the hair. I was able to assist other trainers and artists with weddings and shows while I build my own portfolio as an artist. Without CJMA, I don’t think I would have known where to start or who to contact and be who I want to be as an individual.