For Duana, studying at South West College has been about much more than gaining qualifications. Over the past 10 years, her studies have helped her develop her skills, grow her business and turn her passion for helping others into a career she truly loves.
Duana first came to South West College to study Level 3 Reflexology. Ten years later, she has continued to return to the College, gaining qualifications in Level 3 Body Massage, Hot and Cold Stone Therapy, Aromatherapy and Sports Massage. This year, she added Level 4 Sports Massage and Fast Track Level 2 Beauty Therapy to her achievements.
“I chose to study at South West College because of the calibre of training. I have repeatedly chosen to study at SWC over the years. The tutors are highly skilled, passionate and knowledgeable in their field, which in turn gives me the best education I could ask for.”
The flexibility of part-time study has been a key part of Duana’s journey. While building her career and running her own business, Natural Wellness by Duana, she has been able to continue developing her skills through evening and part-time courses.
“By choosing SWC, I was able to continue working while acquiring new skills. All of my therapies were acquired by attending night classes, with the exception of Level 2 Beauty.”
When Duana decided to broaden her treatment offering, she fast-tracked her Level 2 Beauty Therapy qualification by attending two days each week, completing the course in less than a year.
“I was the oldest in the class at 41, and I was very aware of it, but the students were brilliant! We had so much fun. I was new to beauty and hadn’t had many of the treatments I was studying, but thankfully my two tutors were so attentive and proficient. I took to it really well and very quickly found that I really enjoyed providing the treatments.”
Her studies have had a direct impact on Natural Wellness by Duana, which began with reflexology 10 years ago and has grown as she has added new therapies and qualifications.
“My courses at South West College have greatly impacted my work. The selection of courses is vast and of a high standard, and the awarding bodies are preferred by my insurance and membership. My Fast Track Level 2 Beauty Therapy has expanded my clientele, as has my Level 4 Sports Massage. Studying at SWC has greatly accelerated my business.”
For Duana, her passion for continuing her education is closely linked to her passion for helping people. Her interest in the human body naturally led her towards sports massage, while her desire to help people relax and feel good about themselves inspired her to explore beauty therapy.
“I feel very passionate about my therapies. I love to help people, which is why I naturally progressed to sports massage. I’ve always had an interest in the human body and its mechanisms. I love helping people to relax, and I wanted to provide luxury manicures and pedicures, which guided me to Fast Track Level 2 Beauty Therapy.”
Now running her own business from home, Duana has created a career that gives her the freedom and flexibility she values.
“I greatly appreciate SWC. It has allowed me to run my own business, work from home and be my own boss. I work the hours that suit me, and if I want time off, I book it off! I offer a wide range of treatments to suit everyone, and this is due to the great selection of courses offered at SWC Dungannon.”
But Duana’s journey is far from over. This year, she plans to study Level 3 Beauty Therapy full-time alongside Level 5 Sports Massage part-time. “I’m excited to continue in these subjects. I find both subjects very interesting. Deep down, the passion and drive I possess is to help people – whether that is to relax, reduce pain or feel good about themselves.”
Reflecting on her 10 years at South West College, Duana is keen to encourage others not to let age, work or other commitments stand in the way of developing their skills.
“I highly recommend SWC to anyone interested in beauty therapy and sports massage. There is nowhere else I would go. I firmly believe the quality and delivery of these courses heavily outweigh other options. The support I receive has been amazing.”
“Studying at SWC allowed me to excel, and if I can do that, anyone can!”