With Decades of Experience a a Passion for Teaching!
Meet The Dream Team
Your Dream, Our Mission: Together We Can
Together We Can
The Academy of Hair & Makeup was created by Alondra Gataé, a passionate artist who began her journey at the age of 16 years old. She has worked with some of the most prestigious names in the beauty industry, including CHANEL, MAC Cosmetics, YSL, and Dior, in Australia and in Dubai. For over a decade, she served as a National Artist, Trainer, and Manager for these renowned brands. For the next 10 years she successfully managed her bridal and special event hair and makeup Artist business, where she worked as a Hair and Makeup artist, as well as employing a team of Artists in her business. However, her true calling came when she decided to take a leap of faith and start her own academy.
Alondra's Story: From Zero to the Highest Rated Academy
In 2019, just six months before Melbourne’s first lockdowns, Alondra founded the Academy of Hair & Makeup. After two decades of success in the beauty industry, she took time away from work to care for her newborn son. During that year, she had no income and relied fully on her then-husband to support them. But when the marriage ended, so did the financial safety net, and she was left to start from zero. No savings, no job, and a one-year-old on her hip.
During the pandemic and with just $3,000 to her name and over 25 years of experience, she turned a room in her home into a classroom and her garage into a waiting room. What began as a humble setup quickly grew into one of Melbourne’s most respected hair and makeup academies. Even during lockdowns, the Academy continued to thrive. As soon as restrictions lifted, it expanded into a larger space in Camberwell.
He journey is captured in the video below.
He journey is captured in the video below.
Relocated in Camberwell Junction, Melbourne, the Academy quickly grew due to its high star reviews and reputation.
Alondra expanded and was joined by Diana.K and Millie, two talented artists who shared her vision and passion. Together, they have built a community that continues to empower and inspire women.
Alondra expanded and was joined by Diana.K and Millie, two talented artists who shared her vision and passion. Together, they have built a community that continues to empower and inspire women.
Take a Walkthrough of the Melbourne Academy
Our Team
Diana.K, with over a decade of experience as CHANEL’s National Makeup Artist, brings unparalleled expertise and inspiration to her students. As a single mother of two, her determination and dedication are truly inspiring. As a natural nurturer, Diana is committed to sharing her knowledge and helping students achieve the high level of artistry she mastered during her career.
Millie, who began her journey as one of the academy’s first students, quickly became an integral part of the team. Recognised for her instant charisma and ability to make everyone feel welcomed with her bubbly personality, her warmth and supportive nature create an inviting atmosphere for both students and clients. Balancing her career with being a new mother, Millie exemplifies the determination and passion needed to achieve dreams in the beauty industry.
The Academy of Hair & Makeup is rooted in personalisation, keeping classes intimate and building strong relationships with students. The team’s teaching philosophy is to share everything they know—no secrets, just genuine support to help students succeed. They focus on boosting confidence, providing detailed course outlines, and allowing students to learn at their own pace. Success stories from past graduates and teachers are shared to inspire and build confidence.
The academy also offers post-graduate programs, inviting students back to work alongside the team outside the classroom. For those unsure of how to start a business, attract clients, or make a living in the beauty industry, the academy also provides the guidance and tools needed to turn their passion into a career through our specialised business course, work experience program and graduates joining our PRO Team as paid artists.
At the Academy of Hair & Makeup, we’re more than just teachers—we’re your mentors, cheerleaders, and guides on your journey to success in the beauty industry. Whether you're looking to build confidence, refine your skills, or start your own business, we have the expertise and passion to help you every step of the way. Now that you know our story, it's time to start your own. Explore our courses below and take the first step toward achieving your dreams.
Learn More – Start with the Course That's Right for You!
Are you ready to elevate your passion into your career?
If you'd like more information or prefer to speak with us directly, we're here to assist you.
Follow Alondra, Diana & Millie on Instagram @academy_of_hair_and_makeup
