"From contour, skin prep, eyebrows, I've learnt lots of skills that I will use for the rest of my life," said 15-year-old Chiara from Fulham.
"My mum is already telling friends and family that I can do their makeup. Once I get the lash and nail qualifications, I could turn this into a career."
Chiara is one of ten local teenagers to join the 'Glow and Grow' initiative – a partnership between our pioneering Gangs Unit, the WEST Youth Zone in White City and the Harrow Club.
The five-week programme provided local 13 to 17-year-olds with the skills that could lead to careers in the beauty industry, such as skincare, makeup application and lash and nail techniques.
Cllr Rebecca Harvey, H&F Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion & Community Safety, said:
The Glow & Grow project equips young women with hands-on cosmetic skills and industry knowledge – opening doors to exciting careers and helping them build confidence for a brighter future."
The project joins a range of activities through our Upstream London work, which helps local young people tap into real-world career opportunities in our booming business community.
Learning from the experts
The Sunday sessions were led by industry professionals including makeup artist Niedian Biggs, whose extensive experience includes working at The BAFTA Awards, The British Fashion Awards, and major TV and film productions like Wicked, Supacell and Rye Lane.
Participants also learned from Naveen Mohamed-Zakeria, whose impressive portfolio includes celebrity clients such as Jorja Smith and Pixie Lott, as well as prestigious advertising campaigns with The Savoy London.
"I had the absolute joy of working with the courageous and inspiring young girls, helping them rise above their challenges and embrace their brilliance – so they can shine even brighter, no matter what life throws their way!" says Niedian.
Luxury retailer Harrods supported the project with professional product donations, as did White City-based company L'Oreal. The beauty giant also hosted the participants for a special headquarters tour, complete with a career talk and lunch.
For 14-year-old Blessing, who lives in White City, the impact goes beyond makeup techniques.
"My favourite moment would have to be that I am more confident in myself now with the encouragement from the project and my peers involved," she said.
"I've learned to apply makeup better but the project also gave me a chance to make new friends and socialise."
Investing in our young people
H&F Council invests £1million a year to lead its pioneering Gangs Unit. It has supported 155 local young people and families to date, preventing young people from being exploited and helping them live happy healthy lives.
Learn more about our work to transform young lives across H&F.
