Former Barnsley College student launches her career

Former @BarnsleyCollege student, Kyra Taylor, has realised her dream of running her own beauty business by opening her own spa.  

Kyra decided to turn her dream into a reality by opening her own business, All Dolled Up Nails and Beauty, with the help of iTrust, the College’s business start-up programme exclusively for students.  

Dedicated to making others feel better about themselves, Kyra decided to take the leap and set up her own business offering a variety of lash, waxing and nail services. 

Kyra studied Level 2 Beauty Therapy at Barnsley College before she graduated in June, and said:

“I fell in love with the idea of making other people feel amazing about themselves and my job doesn’t feel like a job at all, it’s more like I get to do what I want all day every day and live my dream. 

“I always knew that I wanted to work for myself in the beauty industry, and I know it’s not going to be an easy process, but the end reward is certainly worth it. I have always had a drive within me encouraging me to never give up, even when I reach my goals, I know I can always better myself.”  

Barnsley College’s Enterprise department is home to the iTrust initiative, a joint venture between the College, The Barnsley Chronicle and The Business Village, which supports students interested in starting up a business in Barnsley. Students who choose to receive support from iTrust, will have access to an array of information and guidance such as mentoring from industry specialists and local businesses and financial investments. 

Whilst working from home, Kyra has devoted her time to completing online courses and brushing up her nail art skills in order to provide her clients with a variety of treatments. Kyra received a £70 grant from iTrust enabling her to purchase her insurance and she also has access to a further £180 which she will use to purchase more stock and complete further training. 

Jess Widdowson, Enterprise Team Leader at Barnsley College, added:

“With the iTrust programme, we support students up to three years after completing their course with us. Kyra has taken the skills she learnt here at College and turned them into a business. She has a fantastic selection of services with a growing list of clients and I am really excited to continue to support her and watch her business grow.”