Beauty College founder comes clean on success
GIVING BACK
“Treat others as you would like to be treated and you can never go wrong”
While Maureen is an astute business woman who has successfully lifted the standards of education in the beauty industry and built a thriving business, at the heart of it all is her desire to give back to the community. She is heavily involved in charity work, but it is not something she likes to draw attention to. “This is not something I like to talk about freely,” she explains. “It’s a private thing. I don’t want any accolades; it’s not about getting brownie points. It’s simply about making a difference.”
The College is currently involved in a mentoring program in partnership with the Leichhardt Police, working with troubled youth and giving them the skills they need to make a change for the better. Girls are given the opportunity to complete a beauty course at the College, learning how to do manicures, pedicures and makeup; as well as learning life skills such as the best interview techniques and how to write a CV.
The program is something close to Maureen’s heart, and she urges other businesses to get involved in the community, and to think beyond the business.
“I strongly believe that all businesses should generate about 10 percent of their time or money to helping others. At the end of the day it’s about being a decent human being. Giving because it’s the right thing to do.”
FUTURE GOALS
“When in doubt, always tell the truth”
Having already accomplished so much, Maureen is looking to the future and investing in her next venture.
She freely discusses her plans, which range from selling to expanding the business.“Ultimately it is now ready for sale. This is the next phase. This comes in consultation with staff, with our succession plan already in place. I am looking for someone who would continue on the dream and the goal I set out to achieve.”
It seems the natural next step for Maureen who has achieved everything she set out to do and is looking forward to the next phase of her life.
However, she concedes that there is always room for growth in the business. “If I wasn’t to leave I would want to expand the College. Get more courses, and expand into other states. I want to become a higher education provider within three years, and a university within 10 years.
“I have been working hard to get to this level. I have planned it. This is where I want to be.”
For more information about the Australasian College Broadway, please visit www.australasiancollege.com.au
QUIRKY FACT
Did you know?
The company logo depicts nails atop the Opera House, combining beauty with an iconic Australian landmark. Maureen explains: “When we commissioned for our logo we wanted it to be Australian. In those days Ken Done was big, so we had the Opera House with fingernails and it was very funky and Australian and us. When you see golden arches you think McDonalds, so we wanted our Opera House and our nails to be known for quality training, and I am very happy to say that we accomplished that.”