Meet the Demi International Team

Lilly Chabot

Manager Admin and Student Services

When people ask me how I got into a career in Admin, I tell them “The career chose me”. I’ve always been very organised and good at creating and maintaining a stable environment. Having a job that is meaningful and makes a difference to the lives of others is also important to me. Prior to joining the Demi International team in July 2019, I spent 6 years working for “profit-for-purpose” organisation where I was involved in raising funds for the charity organisations that were our clients. In my new role I’m given the opportunity to keep growing personally and learn something new every day. It is
very rewarding to me to be involved in the first steps towards helping students begin a career in an industry they love. I admire the fact that people have a passion and want to make a career out of it.

My main goal is to facilitate the process, make sure the students have the support they need to take their skills to the next level. I think my colleagues would say that the best thing I bring to the work environment every day is my sense of humour. There’s always a lot of laughs, which makes the working environment, fun and enjoyable. Helps us all get through the busy day!

You can’t tell from my picture, but I was born in France. I’ve travelled, studied and worked in a few countries including India and Spain and Australia has been my home for 6 years now. My accent is pretty unique, not quite Aussie but not quite French anymore either. When I’m not at my desk you’ll find me caring for my veggie garden and plants in general. What do I believe the key to success is? Persistence! Don’t let the drawbacks affect you. Focus on
finding solutions instead of promoting problems.

Nikki Wicks

Campus Coordinator  – Toowoomba Campus

After working as an office admin for years, I decided to try a different career and entered the beauty industry as a mature age student. This meant, I was really committed to my education and driven to find employment at the end of my studies.

I worked in a small beauty boutique in Toowoomba and a large franchise beauty salon. I really love the environment of a small community salon. I believe you have more time to really connect with your clients in this setting, and this is what I like the most about my job.

From working in the industry and really enjoying my job, I then decided to share my passion with others and enrolled to complete a Certificate IV Trainer and Assessor qualification.

At Demi International, I have found a job I really love. I get to combine my office administrations skills, student support services and training in beauty and makeup. I find being part of the student journey rewarding and satisfying as I watch them grow in confidence and in their skills, all the way to them landing their first job in the industry.

I believe the key to success is determination and confidence. You may suffer setbacks; however, you really need to keep pushing in your pursuit of happiness.

I’m also a country girl through and through and hope to one day have my own acreage property and stock it with animals.

Marly Alanya

Campus Coordinator – Chermside

My love of learning about the achievement of goals and overcome challenges was the motivation to complete a Business Administration Bachelor. I love to help companies to be successful and people to achieve their goals. I am very passionate about working with people and so completed my Master’s degree in Human Resource Management.

The two people who inspire me most are my parents who taught me how to overcome difficulty and challenges, remain strong, respect others and have the courage to follow my dreams.

 What I love about this role would be the idea of helping people to achieve their career goals to get that dream job in the future. I like to hear people’s stories and connect with them to understand their needs and wants and see what can be done to meet these goals and pursue a career they really want.

I’ve been told that I’m funny and I’m always smiling person. I like playing beach volleyball, tennis and swimming after work. I love going to the beach during the weekends, always hunting for amazing bakery shops and food in general (I love food, but I don’t eat chilli)

The key to success for me is to enjoy every single day like it was your last day and find happy moments to be grateful for every single day.

Roberta Vieira

Campus Coordinator – Cairns

I am a very optimistic person who loves helping people feel their best and this is can be one of the most rewarding parts of working in the beauty industry. I also believe in education and how this can change people’s life journeys. For this reason, my role at Demi International is very fulfilling, helping students in the career they’ve chosen and to be surrounded by strong and driven individuals.

I came to Australia to take a Business and Marketing Master’s degree. Maybe this was just an excuse, but I found myself here. I have worked in Marketing for Education and also for Tourism segments for most of my life, including experiences of mega-events such as the Olympic Games and the Commonwealth Games, which makes me love to be surrounded by people from different backgrounds.

People usually don’t guess correctly, but I am originally from Brazil and I have been in Australia for 4 years. I am the first one in my extended family to have a Bachelor’s degree, to be able to speak English and to travel overseas. I consider myself very lucky, but luck without effort does not exist.  My journey was challenging and I always give my best to achieve my dreams (people would say goals, I would say dreams when they are far away from you). I believe determination and perseverance are the keys to success. Nothing comes easy and the hardest challenges are also the ones that are the most rewarding when you achieve them.

Donna Chadwick

Diploma of Beauty Trainer – Sunshine Coast Campus

Donna loves teaching. She’s been teaching for 26 years! In fact, the biggest influence in her Beauty career was her Academy teacher, who inspired her to follow a career in education. She loves to pass on her knowledge, all with a quirky Lancashire sense of humour and a genuine love for her students. Donna holds professionalism and ethics in the highest regard and encourages her students to embrace each lesson.

It is also important to her that students are taught how to be prepared for the industry, so she focuses on emulating this as much as possible in practical and clinic sessions. Experience has taught her this makes the transition from academy to industry true, realistic and seamless. Apart from teaching Donna’s most memorable experience was opening her own Salon.  A thriving business that employed 6 staff and had a loyal client base, many of which still come to see her for their treatments today. Donna is now in her 36^th year of service in the Beauty Industry.

The most humbling and heart-felt comments from a student that Donna has received was from a Single mum of 3 including an autistic child and a disabled child. Who never missed a class.

“I had lots of road blocks ahead of me when I started this course, at times I though I just can’t do this. But every time I thought this I remembered your sweet smile Donna. Your kind hand on my shoulder telling me, this is my time, and how happy I feel on each training day.  Now I have completed my diploma and have a part time beauty job. I have no more road blocks just an endless highway of happiness.”

I asked Donna what the most important thing to her was.

Family. My goal in life is to be happy, kind, helpful and understanding. Life is too short so make it count! I feel so lucky to watch my family grow with health and happiness and to work in this Beautiful industry. I feel blessed everyday that I have chosen this pathway.

…and what do you believe is the key to success?

When you have a dream, a passion, work hard at it.  Stay professional.  Have respect for yourself and others.  Open your mind to possibilities.  If at first you don’t succeed try, try again.

Chelcey Quinn

Diploma of Beauty Trainer – Sunshine Coast Campus

Originally from Scotland, Chelcey arrived in Australia 8 years ago after following her heart. She now lives with her husband and two babies in Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast.

 

Chelcey began her career at 14 in her family salon. From there she progressed to Spa’s, managing salons and franchises. Each new position helped her gain more experience and qualifications as she grew along with the rapidly changing health and beauty industry. Chelcey also became a small business owner providing spray tans, lashes, waxing, gel nails and acrylic nails. For the last 8 years she has been working in the dermal side of the industry working with laser hair removal, advanced chemical peels, skin resurfacing, pigmentation and vascular treatments. Chelcey holds an open trainers full license with QLD radiation and health. After years of experience in the industry Chelcey is so happy to join the Demi International team and follow her passion for training and assessing students.

 

Chelcey’s key to success: Envision what you want, work towards it, take small steps but always picture yourself achieving your goal.  Delays may come, obstacles may arise but never lose that imagine of yourself achieving and living your goals, and they will come to you!

 

Mimi Chambers

Diploma of Beauty Trainer – Sunshine Coast Campus

My career in beauty started by chance. I decided to study beauty therapy while I was taking a gap year between graduating and going to university to study psychology. I got my first beauty job in my first semester of study. I never went to uni.

I have been teaching for 10 years and every class to me is memorable. I believe to educate and make a difference in someone’s life is so rewarding. My favourite thing about teaching is the moment a student really clicks and understands something- the little lightbulb that goes off in their head!

I have been extremely fortunate in my career to have worked in successful, big chain franchise clinics as well as small, local salons. In my career, my focus has always been on continued education and training. I am inspired by the depth of research and incredible people like scientists, dermatologists, who are focused on educating the public about the beauty industry. I currently work as a Clinical Trainer for a Dermal education company. We deliver diverse and comprehensive training on aesthetic devices. I specialise in Dermal Therapies and all things skin. IPL, RF, needling, plasma, peels, HIFU. I am also a dog trainer and volunteer my free time to rescues.

The most important thing for graduating students is to remember your Diploma if just the first step in your career. We will give you the skills to become a great therapist but the more open you are to learning and growing will be the key to success beyond your dreams!

Ali Porter

Diploma of Beauty Trainer – Toowoomba Campus

Making people feel good about themselves mind, body and spirit is Ali’s aim when she goes to work in her own salon B.lush Studios in CBD Toowoomba. Lashes and makeup are her top services. When I asked her who she was most inspired by she answered

Australian Make-up Artist Rae Morris. She shares so much of her knowledge and the secrets to her success.

As an experienced Beauty Therapist, she has a keen interest in anti-ageing techniques and has worked with many Skin Care Companies over her years in salons. Ali loves to travel and hopes to add more stamps to her passport and while she’s there, advance her skills in her other love, photograph. You’ll find yourself laughing at Ali’s spontaneous antics in the classroom where the focus is on communication skills and hands on practice.

As a teacher she loves to see students blossom into industry professionals and uncover their own special talent. It is her intention to have her graduate’s leaving college confident in their skills and knowledge and on their way to finding the job of their dreams.

Ali’s tips for success

• Practice and persistence
• Take every opportunity, you never know where it leads
• Seek work experience in an environment you see yourself working in and walk through the open doors.
• Sometimes it’s not what you know, it’s who you know
• Everyone has a talent, they just must find the courage to share it.
• Go with your gut instinct

Sometimes a student can say it perfectly. Here is what a past student Emma McClurg had to say about Ali.

Ali provided immaculate teaching skills using a combination of exceptional presentations and excellent hands on teaching skills that catered for all learning abilities. Ali motivates all students to have confidence, strive to pursue excellence and succeed.

Lana Glover

Diploma of Beauty Trainer – Toowoomba Campus

Lana has worked in the beauty industry for over 20 years. She enjoyed her time working in salons but always had the goal to own and operate her beauty business. She achieved her goal and ran her own business in Western Australia for 10 years. Following her passion for beauty and inspiring others to follow their heart to do what they love; Lana began teaching in 2003 at Challenger TAFE in WA. Teaching has been a very rewarding experience bringing her great joy. Now a Qld resident Lana has been managing a salon, teaching beauty, and operating her own business.

Lana’s words of wisdom: Do what you love. You can achieve any goal you want to. Be the best you can be.

Theresa Azzopardi

Beauty Trainer – Cairns Campus

Theresa studied her Diploma of Beauty Therapy while at Highschool. Theresa has since worked as an Assistant Spa Manager on Daydream Island. She currently still works at a local Cairns Spa when she is not training. Theresa says it the amazing clients she meets that really make her appreciate the privilege of her job as a therapist. As a trainer, Theresa sets the intention to make sure her students graduate confident and industry ready in all aspects of the job and can push to achieve what they most love to do.

You can do anything you set your mind to.

Lisa Courtney

Beauty Trainer – Chermside Campus

I knew I wanted to work with my hands and although I was offered a hairdressing apprenticeship, I was more drawn towards nails and beauty. After completing a 6 week introductory course to beauty while I was at school I knew I had found my career path. I moved to Australia from Ireland to work as the Fraser Island spa manager. Living on Fraser is a treasured time of my life. I intend to make sure all my graduates go into their new careers passionate about what they do and confident in their abilities. I am also an advanced Remedial Massage Therapist, so massage and the skin are my favourite units to teach. I love martial arts and have trained in both kickboxing and Muay Thai. My key to success is hard work, determination, research, failures along the way, self-belief and self-worth!!

Natasha Fenton

Dual Qualification Beauty and Makeup – Maroochydore Campus

I have over 20 years’ experience in both makeup and beauty. My passion for beauty and make-up came from my love of dance, modelling and the creative arts. All of which I was involved in from a young age.

I am inspired by the transformational capabilities of makeup and its unique ability to give confidence and self-appreciation to others.

As a freelance MuA I have worked in TV, runway, short films, commercial, advertising, editorials. I also have a creative studio which I co-own that provides makeup workshops, courses and services in makeup and hair. I operated a leading bridal and special event makeup business across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. I have also been employed in salons and day spas including retail makeup stores and wellness spas. I now provide wedding services in Noosa and I also coach Salon Owners in business development and mentor staff and managers.

My work in the education sector spans 14 years. I love that I can share real-world advice, artistry skills, beauty techniques and invaluable hints and tips with upcoming makeup and beauty professionals.

​I truly love what I do!​ This industry can provide many opportunities and I recommend to anyone who is curious about the beauty world, to explore the different avenues of what this industry can offer. The prospects are countless, and the possibilities are endless!

Rebecca Yabsley

Hair Trainer – Maroochydore Campus

Rebecca has always loved doing hair and helping people. Doing hair seemed a natural gift, even at school, her friends would offer to pay her to make their hair like hers. Rebecca is inspired by creative people who think fast on their feet with great problem-solving skills and who choose to educate others to help them grow. Rebecca has worked alongside Renya Xidis and Carl Reeves at fashion weeks and many celebrities while working at the upmarket, celebrity salon Valonz – salon to the stars.

Rebecca says one of the keys to success in hairdressing is the consult. She says it doesn’t matter how amazing the cut or colour is. If you and your client are not on the same page the standard of the cut won’t matter. Rebecca sees her role as just a trainer but also a mentor. She is inspired to help her students grow both professionally and personally. To be the best they can be and believe in themselves.

Rebecca’s key to success: Success for everyone is different. I believe If you do all in your power to achieve what you believe to be successful then you have achieved success. Being passionate about what I believe to be successful not the person next to me.

Chris Trezise

Barber Guest Expert – Maroochydore and Chermside Campus

Mine is what most people would say is an unlikely story. But sometimes life unfolds in unexpected ways. I was ready to join the police force, still unsure of what I wanted as a career. One day I made a passing comment about how fun it would be to cut hair. When I was asked Why Not? I had a lightbulb moment. One week later I was accepted as an apprentice at one of the best hair salons in town. Just like that. It wasn’t all glory though I had a lot of hard work ahead and I sank before I swam. I passed through my apprenticeship with a lot of determination.

After 17 years of experience in the industry growing my knowledge and skills, I have decided to embrace the challenge of sharing my passion and inspiring the next generation of barbers. It’s important to me that my students learn not only how to pass an exam. I want them to build a strong set of skills they will always use. All trades start with the basics or what I call a solid foundation. I have had the privilege of learning many different skill levels of hairdressing, which I combine with my barbering skill set for something extra than just classic barbering alone. I currently work in Mario’s Traditional Barbershop in the Sunshine Plaza and love to have a chat if you want to ever pop by.

Amy Pearce

Hair Teacher and Apprentices – Toowoomba

 

My career in Hairdressing started 20+ years ago. I was lucky enough to be offered an apprenticeship straight from high school. ( My mum said you’re not leaving school unless you have a job!) So I grabbed it with both hands and never looked back. With a love for fashion, fun and chatter it was naturally a good fit.

Hairdressing has been good to me; I have been extremely fortunate to have worked alongside some incredibly talented people and in many areas of this dynamic industry.

It has allowed me to travel, learn and work all over the world. But in more recent years I’ve worked as a freelance stylist in the photographic & television arena. This consisted of photoshoots for the fashion & Bridal industry, live sports coverage, TV commercials, News and documentaries & lifestyle shows.

I have had many highlights along the way, Editorial shoots being published in bridal magazines and working on international haircare campaigns. This means lots of travel, plenty of hard work, practise, and early mornings too!

My favourite thing about being a trainer is the ability to bring fun to the classroom, share my knowledge and skills with students, excite, educate and inspire them to achieve their goals in gaining a qualification and ultimately landing that dream job.

I believe the key to success is to never give up…

It may not be easy, but the best things rarely are.

Anita Kennedy

Hair Teacher – Toowoomba

My career in hair began with an apprenticeship with Stefan, after graduating year 12. I was extremely fortunate getting my start with Stefan. After completing my apprenticeship, I stayed with the company for a further 6 years. During my time at Stefan, I managed both Toowoomba salons. The Grand Central store was awarded top shop and myself and my staff were awarded an all expenses paid overseas holiday! When I left Stefan, I worked in an exclusive salon in Toowoomba for 2 years then opened my own salon. My time has been spent in my salon for the past 12 years. The most rewarding part of my career has been training apprentices, it is a labour of love for me.

I believe it is imperative to never stop learning. I have been very privileged to have some wonderful mentors over the years. Always do what you love and have fun doing it. My key to success: Together with commitment and determination you can achieve anything and everything.

Jenny Kelly

Hair and Barbering Teacher – Chermside

I was 15 and 9 months when I started my Apprenticeship is a small town called Warwick. I was privileged to be trained by one of the best in Hair (Rene Luthi). Trained in Switzerland he inspired me to keep pushing my skills and keep creating better work. I always strive to do better n better in all that I do. I have had my own businesses for the last 20 years, I’m currently running my 5th salon. I absolutely love training my apprentices, bringing out their best qualities and inspiring them to do better. I’m looking forward to bringing my passion for training in a classroom environment. My key to success is Stick to what you know and grow. I love this industry but if I wasn’t here, I’d most likely be in the dirt bike industry.

Christy Massey

Hair and Barbering Teacher – Chermside and Brisbane Apprentices

I didn’t know I wanted to be a hairdresser but I was always doing my hair and my sisters and friends hair growing up. My mum came home from a salon that was looking for a junior to wash hairs on Saturdays and said that I would be great at it, so next thing I know she was driving me to the salon to start my first day and 25 years later I still love this trade. I started my career in Sydney and have worked in a variety of salons including my own and the most memorable moments are the friendships I have made with both clients and coworkers. Going to expos and award shows together and being able to share my passion and excitement for hair with others, I really feel privileged.

I love being able to share the knowledge I’ve gained with my students. I take tremendous pride in inspiring young hairdressers and the best thing about my job is the chance to give back to the industry that has given me so much throughout my life. In the classroom I love creating an environment that is inclusive to everyone, I want them to support each other through the highs and lows and be able to look back at this time with pride in themselves for finishing the course. I get great joy from mentoring apprentices and helping them grow into capable and confident professionals. Nothing is more satisfying than seeing a past student succeed. To get a job in the industry, somewhere that they can pursue what inspires them most in hairdressing.

My key to success – Hard work and doing something you love.

 

Tracey Wilson

Hairdressing Apprentices – Chermside and Brisbane Apprentices

My passion is definitely in the education sector, I love to teach hair but also to help others with my stories and the knowledge I have gathered along the way.

I’ve been hairdressing since I was 16 I started working for a large franchise in London to becoming their salon trainer training apprentices and employees. I then branched out to owning 2 salons of my own and then moved my family out to this beautiful country and have been training students here for the last 12 years. I am excited to take you on this journey with Demi international to include fun and education and prove you can succeed in taking your dreams anywhere even to the other side of the world

 

Chelcey Harris

Hair Teacher – Cairns

My mum is my biggest inspiration and role model in my career. I have followed her footsteps into the industry we both love. For the past 18 years, I have operated my own business in Far North Queensland, of CK Hair Mobile hairdressing & Makeup. I work mainly as a colour specialist and have several regular clients. My career highlights so far would be having the pleasure of looking after several Australian celebrities including Christine Anu. In my class, I will be creating a hands-on approach to learning. I want to inspire students to reach their full potential in the hair and beauty industry. My key to success is determination, skill, passion, discipline and luck. If I wasn’t in the beauty business, I’d love to be a women’s AFL player.

Amy Sommer

Makeup Teacher – Toowoomba Campuses

I have worked in the makeup industry for the past 18 years. During my Beauty Therapy studies, I realised that my true passion was not beauty but makeup. This is how I became a MuA. I believe that being a makeup artist is a truly rewarding career. It allows you to help people to feel their absolute best, and I enjoy being able to pass on those skills as a trainer.

Over the course of my career, I have worked as a freelance artist working on many weddings, photoshoots etc, but my favourite was working in television.

I feel extremely fortunate to be part of an industry that is constantly evolving. There is never time to be bored, and there is always something new to learn. I believe that inspiration can come from anywhere, and sometimes in the most random of places, adding to the excitement of this career.

William Couto

Massage Teacher – Cairns Campus

As a child, I always thought I would work in a field where I could help people. After finishing high school, I knew I would go on to study Physiotherapy. I graduated in 2011 and began working in rehabilitation. Wanting to learn more about the body and how to help my clients I completed a postgraduate in neurological disorders. Since graduating I have worked in Sports Rehabilitative Centers, Neurology Centers, Intensive Unit Care, and Nursing Homes. Working in the Nursing home has touched my Willian’s heart. I have been working with manual therapy and physiotherapy for almost 10 years and I’m specialized in spine disorders, ortho and neurorehabilitation and manual therapy.

I moved to Australia in 2014 to experience a different lifestyle and new opportunities. I added Remedial Massage to my skills, and I now enjoy training others on how to improve people’s well-being. I’m very grateful for the life I live. I love surfing and spending time in nature. I have a dream to one day build a Rehabilitative Center for people who can’t afford high-quality treatments.

The key to success, in my opinion, is to be grateful for what you already have. Be in touch with what gifts you have to share with people, and then work hard to develop the skills required.

Kym Levy

Remedial Massage Teacher – Sunshine Coast Campus

Kym has worked in the health Industry now for 11 years in the Massage and Nursing professions.  She has worked with people who require rehabilitation post injury and the sporting community. She also has a love for postural re-alignment and working with Children on relaxation and balance pre and post their sports activities.

Kym believes one of the best things about training is being in a support role to help people achieve their dreams and goals and improve their self-worth.

Kym maintains that learning happens through laughter and fun and her classroom environment reflects this. She believes “we are all unique and special, and have something amazing to offer, and we all have our own goals and through being individuals we can inspire each other and work together with our individual strengths to achieve those goals.”

Kym is self-employed as a Remedial Massage Therapist and Healer, working closely with Fitness Experts and Rehabilitation Professionals. She is also currently in the process of writing 3 books.

What is her key to success?

“is being true to yourself.  You should always be willing to learn, and be adaptable to change, as this will allow you to grow both personally and professionally.”

Lyn Slade

Massage Teacher – Toowoomba Campus

Hi I’m Lyn

I started my career in massage, not in a traditional way. I was working in the Rehabilitation Ward at the Base hospital Toowoomba as the Allied Health Therapy assistant to the Allied Health Professionals. I was asked to massage the arm of one of the patients to encourage a better outcome for the Physiotherapist working with them.  At the next meeting it was suggested that for professional development, I should complete a basic massage course. Enjoyed it so much went on to do a Diploma in Remedial massage and much more!

I established Edals Therapy Center after years working in large clinics. I’ve been teaching Advance Product Making and Reflexology on the Sunshine Coast. I also work as a complementary therapist at a Nursing Home in Toowoomba and I have a room at Palm Lake Resort (Retirement Village).  I love to share knowledge, I’m a life-long learner. I love my job, supporting people with their health and well-being gets me up every day. It’s a joy to go to work. 

I believe the key to success is… Never giving up, determination, believing gin yourself.  Whatever the day brings, walk through with confidence as the sun will still shine tomorrow.

Tony Logan-Stevens

Massage Teacher – Chermside Campus

I’m Tony, and I have been working solidly in the Remedial Massage Industry for more than 20 years. I fell into this industry without pre-determination and found a career that is so rewarding … When you work in Remedial Massage, the opportunities are only limited by your determination and enthusiasm! I have worked alongside Chiro’s, Physio’s and PT’s, and been fortunate enough to provide Remedial Massage Support to some Elite Athletes as well.

 

My greatest achievements so far include opening my own clinic in January 2007 and managing to grow a thriving suburban Health Care Practice … Volunteering at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in 2018 and providing Sports Massage at the Aquatic Centre … Working with a World Class World Champion Endurance Triathlete as part of his personal support crew.

 

I am so excited to be teaching the Remedial Massage Diploma because I am passionate about helping to develop the next generation of Remedial Therapists. I trained at a time where there was much focus on holistic care, with attention to the connection and inter-dependency across the Mind, Body & Spirit. My initial training covered Clinical Orthopaedic Testing but also encompassed the ‘Whole Person’ in treatment attitudes, and I want to take that philosophy – blend it with my experiences from the last 20 years – and share that with students to help them become all they can be in this great industry.

 

What do I think is the ‘Key to Success?’ … Positivity

 

Negativity is destructive – but if you stay happy, confident & positive about everything you do there is very little you can’t achieve!

Satya Lynn

Yoga Teacher – Maroochydore and Chermised Campus

With an interested in helping others and a strong yearning for finding the reasons behind the amazing workings of the human body, upon leaving school I studied Chiropractic, Musculoskeletal Therapy and Kinesiology. In an effort to find a way of allowing clients to have longer lasting peace and happiness within their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual bodies, I found yoga.

 

I am a devoted yogi, meditator, health advocate, student, trainer and assessor of remedial massage and yoga teaching, musculoskeletal therapist, kinesiologist, musician, daughter, sister and friend. With a strong emphasis on structure, physiology and energy medicine, I guide students enrolled in Yoga teacher training so that they have an appreciation of the sacred science, philosophy and lifestyle of Yoga. Students will be trained to have a firm foundation in the breath, intention setting, safe structural alignment, finding the edge between strength and flexibility, inner listening, living in the present, smooth transitions, safe adjusting of students, moving into stillness and self-love.

Through living the yogic lifestyle I bring my love and joy of yoga through my teaching. In Yoga classes I guide my students with a focus on releasing tension and restlessness in the body so it can remain in complete stillness in meditation, reconnecting to our essential nature. Each yoga pose is an opportunity to experience self-acceptance of this present moment, now, allowing for peace in the body and mind through the vehicle of the breath. I often conclude my classes with meditation and an ancient chant of yogic scripture.

I come from a family of yoga teachers, Ayurvedic practitioners and Vedic Astrologers. As a holistic therapist, seeing no part being separate from another, more energetic insights are shared depending on what is organically presented in the group of yogis on the day, to leave you feeling uplifted, radiant and at peace.

Gary Cali

Yoga Teacher – Cairns Campus

Yoga was suggested to me as a beneficial opportunity for growth that would suit me. I pursued a yoga practise and enjoyed it.  Yoga is now my passion, which has become my purpose.

My experience varies from students of all ages: Seniors groups at the U3A, classes at Gyms, my own group classes and relief teacher group classes. One of the things I love about Yoga teaching is that I see through observing my students that’s is never too late to start yoga and still see improvement. This gives me the inspiration to know that there is growth and change at any age.

People ask me what I love most of all about teaching and I would say that guiding students through a Personal Development journey to know themselves better and gain insight into who they are.

I bring a raw fresh approach to my yoga students and the classroom. I like to bring structure to the practice and environment. I also intuitively make it individualised to each student, harmonising the heart and the mind.

I have been specialising on Energetic Systems in the body working with clients for the past 13 years tapping into my intuitive and logic to create harmony in the heart space.

Through my yoga practice, I have found my unique approach to developing my own intuitive system. Through this, my goal is to bring forth a harmonious efficient yoga practise, which I would like to share with everyone.

I feel my key to success is to have an open mind, to not believe, rather to experience my practice to teach me inner knowing.

Jo Van Bladel

Nail Teacher – Cairns & Sunshine Coast Campuses

Jo is our much loved Nail trainer. Driven by a love of what she does and a love of learning. Jo is respected for her knowledge and her students benefit from her love of sharing that knowledge. Jo sparkles in the classroom, literally!

She loves training nail art, especially glitter and colour, and all the things that make a nail unique.

As one of her students said:

I trained under Jo four years ago. She is a truly amazing teacher. She is dedicated to her students and is always looking at new ways to engage them. As a nail technician, Jo’s skills are up there with the best and she is constantly improving. I know I can call on Jo for help and advice at any time. She is a very welcoming and caring lady. I cannot recommend her highly enough

Kerrel Clifford, Red’s Nails and Beauty.

Jo provides her graduating students with the skills to explore their own creative souls, create beautiful unique nails and turn it into a job they absolutely love doing. Her training is client focussed as she believes it is an important part of the job to “make the client’s feel as if they are the most important person in the world”, something she learned from her experience first starting out in a small business.

Jo originally began her career in nails, over 20 years ago. Becoming a nail technician/artist gave Jo the flexibility she needed to take care of her young son, she loved it and she’s been successfully creating beautiful nails for her loyal clients ever since. She has a wish to collaborate with as many nail techs as she can, and create a nail community that keeps the industry growing.

When we asked Jo what her key to success was she said “Practice, practice, practice and never stop learning”.

Julie Watt

IPL/Laser Teacher – Cairns & Sunshine Coast Campuses

I began my training in nursing but realized that it wasn’t the career for me. I found it very hard to detach from my work. It felt natural for me to then move into beauty and clinical aesthetics. I loved the industry because it centered around making people feel good about themselves.  I have over 30 years of industry experience. My specialty areas are in advanced treatments such as IPL and laser and light therapies, advanced skin treatments such as chemical peels, skin needling, dermaplaning, skin tightening procedures and plasma fibroblast,

I have worked in and managed various salons, clinics and training over the years. I have been with Demi International for going on 8 years. I have moved from the Sunshine Coast to Longreach in outback Qld, and my role in the company has changed. I am still proud to still be part of the team. I would say it is my most memorable workplace in my career because of the people, staff and students.

I love sharing my experience and knowledge with the students. It’s wonderful to see students soak up new information. Learning is not just about what you can learn from the materials given to you, but the knowledge and experience of others who have been where you want to go. I like my students to feel comfortable. No question is a silly question. I think everyone has something to contribute to a learning environment, and I encourage this.

My key to success. Do what you do for the love of it, not for money. Put your heart and soul into whatever you choose to commit to. If you do something for the right reasons and work hard, the money will come amongst other rewards.

Daniela Galofre

Student Recruitment – International College of Qld (Demi’s International Arm)

I was born in Colombia and now Australia is home. I have been working in International Education for over 5 years and I love it!

It is a great feeling to have the opportunity to help international students to fulfil and achieve their career goals. I am passionate about helping because I completely understand the process, having been an International student myself (I completed my Bachelor of Marketing in Spain and came to Australia to do my Masters in Human Resources).

I have always been interested in trying new experiences, ideas, and concepts. Continuously pushing myself out of my comfort zone, discovering new countries (l have visited 19 countries and look forward to more travel), exploring cultures and being part of a different environment.  I believe that if you can dream it you can do it, and everything is possible if you plan well and work for it.

Giselle Araujo

Business Development Manager

Since the moment I could talk, I’m told, I was negotiating with whoever was around me. I guess business is in my genes. I love what I do, and can’t think of myself working in any other field than sales and business development.

I started working in sales at 16 in telemarketing then as a sales analyst for a training organisation. From there I moved into sales management for more than 10 years and graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration in my home country Brazil.

I arrived in Australia about 6 years ago and started working in the VET education sector as a sales and marketing manager. It didn’t take long for me to feel deeply passionate about the opportunities we create for others through education. Helping others to achieve their career goals and making dreams come true is my main goal. I love to help people find a career that inspires them and meets their vision of their future.

I am very grateful to have the opportunity to work in this fantastic industry, particularly with an RTO that is driven to help students have a wonderful learning experience and achieve job outcomes. I love being part of the team at Demi International.

When I’m not at work you’ll find me watching a sunset by the beach. I love to travel and collect memories. There is so much in this world to see and so many beautiful people to meet.

I look forward to meeting you.

Stacey Oertel

Manager – People, Performance & Quality

“Making someone feel special, I believe is the best gift of all”

That’s probably my motto in life and it translates to everything I do. Even in the classroom I am always encouraging my students to be the best versions of themselves. I believe this is paramount to getting them industry ready, so they can hit the ground running. Not only will they have all the essential skills they need but the confidence and self-belief to become successful in their chosen area.

People inspire me the most. My family are the most important thing in my life.  I have been so blessed to work with so many wonderful people, including the fabulous teaching team I am a part of now.  Working internationally on cruise liners has probably been my most memorable experience. Even then it was about making as many people as possible feel and look good. That included all ages and walks of life. As well as my cruise liner experience my favourite freelance work to do is weddings and special occasions.  Being a part of someone’s wedding day is very special. I love the excitement and although at times you are required to work under extreme pressure, the anticipation of the event always wins out. The smile on the faces of the people you have just made feel special is the best reward every single time.

Teaching to me is a reciprocal experience. The student learns from the teacher and the teacher learns from the student. I truly believe we can all learn something from each other. I especially encourage questions, a million or more, that is what learning is all about. My aim in the classroom is to create an environment that is relaxed, supportive and inclusive of everyone. I really believe to succeed we have to be kind, to ourselves and to others.

There’s no drifting though.  I am very focused and goal orientated and lead my students to set goals and develop the will to achieve them through dedication and hard work.  In fact that is my key to success:

“Be kind to yourself, believe in yourself.  Nothing just falls into your lap.  You need to be dedicated and work hard.  Set goals and do what ever is necessary to make them happen!

I look forward to having you join me in the best educational experience in makeup you’ll ever have!

Seonaid Boyle

Manager – Communications and Quality

I started with Demi International over 8 years ago as a trainer. I then moved on to work in administration, student support, student enrolments, education design and compliance. Over the years it has been such a joy for me to watch Demi International grow from 5 students to now 4 campuses. Its been very exciting to see students achieving their dream jobs or using their studies as a stepping stone to achieving a much bigger dream. It’s rewarding to be part of a wonderful team, passionate about education.  A dedicated bunch of people, driven to create more opportunities, for regional students to study what they love while living where they love to be. My role now is about sharing what we do with as many people as possible who are passionate about the personal services industry, making sure every student is having an amazing experience, while also taking care of the government requirements of an RTO.

I love to learn so it’s no surprise to me that I have found a career in education. I get a real kick out of seeing people inspired to try something new, discover their talents and build their confidence to share their gifts and what they have learnt out in the real-world.

I am a lover of nature and get out into it as often as possible. I love people and to travel. I’m inspired daily by our diversity and interconnectedness.  I also love to geek out on health, nutrition and yoga. Being accepted, out of thousands of applications as an attendee at TEDx Brisbane 2017 event Rise Up is one of my most memorable experiences.

My key to a beautiful life: There is always a solution for everything. I’ve learnt through life that nothing is impossible, everyone is capable of so much more than they know. Focus on the journey, you can dream it and believe it, but unless you act on it then it can’t be. “A journey of 1000 miles begins with one step” Just take it!

Ann Donnarumma

Owner/Director

I am the Owner/Director of Demi International. I’m proud to say over the last 10+ years Demi International is now one of Queensland’s most successful and awarded academy’s. It’s always rewarding for me to see so many students graduate and gain steady employment doing what they love to do. And I do see them often out in the industry. I love to catch up and hear their stories of success.

I come from a hard working, blue-collar family in Bundaberg. I left home at 17 to pursue a career in the city. I worked in the financial services space for Suncorp for many years and bought my first beauty salon while still working. I’ve always loved anything and everything to do with beauty and fashion. I sold my salon in 2012 which gave the opportunity to acquire Demi International.

My key to success: Take action. One step forward every day in the direction of your goals. Courage isn’t the absence of fear – its feeling fear and moving forward anyway.

The celebrations along the way are what make it worth it.