Annmarie Whitty – Hairdressing tutor in Waterford College of Further Education

I have recently completed hair scalp and wig therapy training with Aileen Maher and continued my studies with an amazing lady Louise O’Loughlin who is the educator for Oncology Training in Ireland. Oncology Training International (OTI) teaches Hairdressers and Beauticians how to treat their clients with Cancer currently going through treatment and how to treat them long after their illness. The Aesthetics and the importance of it to many men and women while undergoing treatment is such a vital role in their lives and it’s a reason to make them smile through some of the most difficult times they may encounter in life. As a hairdresser, I found it very difficult when I would have clients come to me with hair loss needs or undergoing treatment for cancer and I had no answers for them. I can say there was two women I came across before my studies that inspired me to do this training one has Alopecia, and another was undergoing Treatment for cancer, and it bothered me so much that I could not help them or offer any advice. When I eventually came across this course on Image skillnet it was probably during one of the most difficult times of my life, I was just after losing my stepdad to cancer while my mum was undergoing treatment for Bowel cancer. It was a very emotional journey but something I am very passionate about. My Educators and fellow peers gave me the courage to continue my training and without fail, I attended each Zoom meeting and completed all my course content. On Monday the 7th of March, Oncology Training Ireland held a boost your business seminar and awards ceremony in association with Iguazu Beauty and Repechage Ireland. I was nominated as OTI’s Student of the year but not in my wildest dreams did I think I would win it. When my name was called out as the winner there were many tears but tears of joy. I am so thankful to each person especially my mum and my wonderful son for the continued love and support. I look forward to being able to incorporate my knowledge into my classroom and hopefully helping to change the lives of others along my way.