Maata Morrell-Dzilic (Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Porou) started at EIT | Te Pūkenga attending Trades Academy when she was still at school, now not only is she about to graduate with a Diploma in Beauty Therapy from EIT | Te Pūkenga, but she also has her own business.

Maata, 19, who was born and raised in Hawke’s Bay, is of Māori and Muslim (Bosnian) heritage. She says she is excited to be graduating tomorrow (Friday 18 August) at Toitoi – Hawke’s Bay Arts & Events Centre in Hastings.

“I’m really excited because I’ve been dreaming of graduating ever since I started at EIT.”

That journey began when she was at school. She attended Kahu o Te Rangi Te Kōhanga Reo, Tauparanui Ki Heretaunga Te Kōhanga Reo and Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngāti Kahungunu Ki Heretaunga prior to EIT | Te Pūkenga.

“When I was 15 years old, I was introduced to Trades Academy where high school students go to EIT every Friday. I just remember my teacher taking us around to all the departments. Once I got to the beauty department, I felt, ‘Okay, this is me. This is where I’m meant to be.’ That’s when I started here in the Trades Academy Beauty Services [Level 2].”

Maata then decided to leave school to study at EIT | Te Pūkenga full time.

Since then, Maata has completed the Makeup and Skin Care (Introduction) [Level 3], Beauty Therapy [Level 4] and NZ Diploma in Beauty Therapy [Level 5].

While studying, Maata also worked as an OSCAR Programme Assistant at House of Unity, with all her pay cheques being saved so that she could start her own business.

“Last year, I was 18, and that’s when I completed my diploma in beauty therapy, and that’s when I opened up my business, Ma’s Beauty.”

“I hope my story will inspire up and coming beauty therapists and entrepreneurs, but also the younger generation to follow their passion.”

Maata credits her tutors at EIT | Te Pūkenga for their knowledge and support.

“Their support was outstanding. Whenever you needed a hand with something, they’re just always there, which was really nice to have here.”

While she is looking forward to graduation where her family will be to support her, Maata’s focus is on her new business.

“Ma’s Beauty is currently home-based and I do the lot – nail services, massage services, brow and lash services, facial waxing, makeup, and facials.”

“The goal is to eventually have my own beauty therapy clinic in town, but to also eventually franchise out as well. Although I’ve made it this far, I still feel like I’ve got a long way to go.”

She does not rule out further study either.

“I will focus on my business, but then I wouldn’t mind looking at specialising more in skin and doing some business courses as well, just to help me have that foundation of how to eventually build a franchise.”

Jodee Reid, EIT | Te Pūkenga Beauty Therapy Lecturer/Programme Coordinator, says: “We are thrilled with the achievement of Maata after completing all three programmes within the beauty suite. “

“Maata’s drive and determination to excel in the beauty therapy industry was evident right from the start in her Trades Academy classes, and then in following the pathway programmes to the Diploma in Beauty Therapy.  Despite the challenges and demands of studying during the height of the pandemic, Maata exhibited a relentless commitment to mastering each facet of the art and science of beauty therapy.  Her passion and unwavering dedication have been a true inspiration to both her peers and tutors alike. “

“The team of tutors who have worked with Maata congratulate her and her fellow graduates on this momentous milestone, celebrating not only their exceptional accomplishments but also the resilience and tenacity that have fuelled their journey.  As Maata embarks on the next chapter of her career, we are confident that her boundless drive will continue to propel her to new heights which will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the beauty industry.”