How Holly’s career in beauty has cleared a path to a stunning future 

Holly, a mother of four, was looking for a change of pace. She had the ambition and motivation to pursue something new but needed guidance on where to focus her energy.

With the support of Parent Pathways, Holly realised her ambitions and launched her own successful business.

When she connected with the Bamara team in Palmerston, she met Senior Support Mentor Edith, who has supported her throughout her journey.

With Edith’s guidance, Holly began exploring what truly motivated her. Together, they identified her interests, strengths, and long-term goals, helping her gain clarity on the path she wanted to pursue.

Holly reflected on what inspired her creativity and what brought fulfilment to her everyday life. She soon realised that beauty brought these passions together.

“I’ve always liked beauty, it allows me to express my creativity and build connections with other people,” Holly said, “I was sitting at home just thinking ‘What’s stopping me? I’m going to do this’” Holly said.

With a clear goal in mind, Edith helped Holly create a Goal Plan, mapping out each step from training and qualifications through to launching her own business.

In September 2024, Holly enrolled in a Certificate in Soft Nails Technology. The online course provided the flexibility she needed to balance her studies with family life. She dedicated time to completing coursework while her children were at school, making the most of every opportunity to progress.

Along the way, Holly received support with essential business requirements, including insurance, equipment such as nail tools and client chairs, and ongoing encouragement from Edith, who was always there to provide reassurance and motivate her through moments of uncertainty.

Holly started practicing on herself, family and close friends, gradually building her confidence before expanding her services to a wider clientele.

By November 2025, after completing her qualification, she was open for business.

She launched her business, Empowered Beauty, a name that reflects her goal of uplifting others through beauty, self-care, and pampering.

Operating from home, Holly has built a career she is passionate about, creating intricate nail designs that allow her clients to express their individuality.

Now, more than a year later, Holly is thriving as her own boss. She continues to expand her skills within the beauty industry, adding new services such as eyebrow styling to her repertoire.

Reflecting on her journey, Holly recalls the excitement of selecting products and tools, the freedom of working for herself, and the consistent support she received from Edith, who was always just a phone call away.

“I feel my personal progress has been a lot better, and I’m better at what I do now. Having Edith there has been the main part in getting my business up and running. I wouldn’t have done it without her,” Holly said.

As of August 2026, Holly has been recognised as a finalist in Darwin Fashion Week for Nail Artist of the Year, and a finalist for Outstanding Beauty Services at the 2026 NT Local Business Awards, two impressive achievements that highlights her talent, innovation, and passion for what she does.

Congratulations to Holly on everything she has achieved through her hard work, determination, and creativity. We wish her continued success as she continues to grow her business and inspire others.

Connect with our Parent Pathways team

Our Parent Pathways service helps you identify your goals – whether they’re family-focused or career-driven – and provides you with or helps you access the resources you need to work towards and ultimately achieve those goals.    

We listen to what matters most to you and your family. Our dedicated team of experienced Support mentors will provide individualised support to help you achieve your goals.