In 2015, Kaya Nash completed her Level 3 in Beauty Therapy not knowing she had unlocked the path to explore the globe.

Kaya explains: “I always knew I wanted to be a beauty therapist but when I was 16 my career wasn’t as much of a priority. I worked in Sainsbury’s for a little while until I decided I wanted to go back to college and get qualified.

“I’m so glad I decided to study at Calderdale College. My course introduced me to all the skills and techniques I still use today. I had a fantastic tutor who always pushed me to do my best, supported me through my tough days and helped me re-sit my maths GCSE.”

Fast-forward two years and Kaya secured a job working in luxury spas based on cruise ships.

She adds: “I started working as a facial specialist on cruise trips, which meant I could do what I love but also experience solo travel for the first time.

“I love travelling and I’m so lucky to be able to combine it with a job I love. After working a number of seasons, I decided I wanted a change and I got a job working on a private island near Cornwall – this time I worked across all treatment areas from facials, manicures and pedicures to deep tissue massages.”

After settling at the resort for a few years, Kaya’s wanderlust had her dreaming of far-off shores and new countries she had yet to discover.

Kaya is now awaiting a flight to New Zealand to start in a new role as Spa Manager at a 5* golf resort just north of Auckland. 

She said: “I’ve worked hard to develop my beauty therapy skills since leaving college and I’m so excited to start my next adventure.

“I had an interview over Zoom at 9pm due to the time difference! The hotel manager was really excited and impressed by my CV and after two interviews I was offered the job. Four weeks later and I’m packing my bags to work on the other side of the world!”

Kaya’s message to current and future Beauty students is simple.