With Decades of Experience a a Passion for Teaching.
Meet The Dream Team
Your Dream, Our Mission:
Together We Can
Together We Can
Our Team - Your Mentors
The Visionary Behind the Academy: Alondra Gataé
The Academy of Hair & Makeup was born from the 25-year career of Alondra Gataé, a master artist who began her journey at just 16 years old. Alondra’s pedigree is defined by a decade at the highest level of global luxury, serving as a National Artist, Trainer, and Manager for iconic houses including CHANEL, MAC Cosmetics, YSL, and Dior across Australia and Dubai.
After a subsequent decade spent running a premier bridal and special event business with her own team of artists, Alondra realized her true calling: bridging the gap between industry excellence and elite education. In 2019, she took a leap of faith to create a space where the next generation of artists could thrive.
The Academy of Hair & Makeup was born from the 25-year career of Alondra Gataé, a master artist who began her journey at just 16 years old. Alondra’s pedigree is defined by a decade at the highest level of global luxury, serving as a National Artist, Trainer, and Manager for iconic houses including CHANEL, MAC Cosmetics, YSL, and Dior across Australia and Dubai.
After a subsequent decade spent running a premier bridal and special event business with her own team of artists, Alondra realized her true calling: bridging the gap between industry excellence and elite education. In 2019, she took a leap of faith to create a space where the next generation of artists could thrive.
From Zero to Melbourne’s Highest-Rated Academy
Alondra’s journey is one of true resilience. Founded just six months before Melbourne’s first lockdowns, the Academy began in the most humble of circumstances. Starting from zero with no financial safety net and just $3,000 to her name, Alondra, a single mother with a one-year-old on her hip, transformed a room in her home into a classroom and her garage into a waiting area.
While the world paused, the Academy’s reputation soared. Driven by Alondra’s unwavering grit and mastery, the business defied the odds, eventually expanding into our premier space in Camberwell Junction. Today, the Academy stands as a testament to the power of determination and high-level artistry.
Alondra is now joined by Diana.K, Millie, and Helen, a powerhouse team of mentors who share her mission to empower women, raise industry standards, and prove that with the right training, any dream is achievable.
Alondra’s journey is one of true resilience. Founded just six months before Melbourne’s first lockdowns, the Academy began in the most humble of circumstances. Starting from zero with no financial safety net and just $3,000 to her name, Alondra, a single mother with a one-year-old on her hip, transformed a room in her home into a classroom and her garage into a waiting area.
While the world paused, the Academy’s reputation soared. Driven by Alondra’s unwavering grit and mastery, the business defied the odds, eventually expanding into our premier space in Camberwell Junction. Today, the Academy stands as a testament to the power of determination and high-level artistry.
Alondra is now joined by Diana.K, Millie, and Helen, a powerhouse team of mentors who share her mission to empower women, raise industry standards, and prove that with the right training, any dream is achievable.
Diana.K is a pillar of the Australian beauty industry, bringing the elite standards of global luxury directly to the classroom. With over a decade spent as CHANEL’s National Makeup Artist, Diana has shaped the faces of national campaigns and mastered the technical precision required by the world’s most prestigious fashion house. Now a highly sought-after freelance artist, she translates her years of high-stakes industry experience into high-level mentorship. Diana’s resilience and dedication are the backbone of her teaching style. A natural nurturer with a sharp eye for detail, she is committed to helping her students achieve the same world-class artistry that defined her storied career.
Millie stands as the ultimate testament to the academy’s elite training, having evolved from one of our inaugural students into a distinguished lead educator and integral member of the team. Known for her infectious charisma and a "client-first" philosophy, Millie has built a reputation for creating an exceptionally warm and inclusive learning environment. While her bubbly personality makes her an instant favorite among students, it is her technical precision and "real-world" industry insight that truly sets her apart. Now balancing a thriving professional career with the joys of new motherhood, Millie embodies the modern beauty entrepreneur. She is a dedicated mentor who proves that with passion, high-level training, and a supportive community, reaching the pinnacle of the beauty industry is within every student's reach.
Helen recognized with the Glen Eira Makeup Artist Award and a nomination for
the Australian Small Business Awards, she brings a high level of
technical precision and business acumen to her teaching. Having first
joined the academy as a hair student who consistently exceeded
expectations, Helen’s journey has come full circle. Her unique
background as a previous disability support worker makes her a natural
empath with exceptional patience, ensuring her classroom is an inclusive
space where every student can thrive. Helen balances her
"high-standard" coaching with a nurturing heart, empowering her students
to reach the elite level of artistry the industry demands.
Personalized Learning, Professional Results
At the Academy of Hair & Makeup, we prioritize relationships over high-volume classes. Our teaching philosophy is simple: we share everything we know. By removing the "secrets" of the industry, we empower our students to learn at their own pace in a supportive, high-confidence environment.
A Gateway to the Industry
We don't just teach you how to apply makeup; we teach you how to build a life you love. Through our specialized business courses and work experience programs, we bridge the gap between "student" and "professional." As a student you gain the "real-world" experience that transforms a hobby into a high-level career.
Join Our Community
We are your mentors and your biggest cheerleaders. From your first brush stroke or blow wave to your first professional booking, we are with you every step of the way. You’ve seen how we built our dream, now let’s build yours.
Discover your path. Explore our courses below.
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
