Award-winning clinic owner, author, and respected industry mentor, Robyn McAlpine is no stranger to making waves in the beauty industry. Now, with her legacy project, ‘Transforming Beauty’, Robyn is providing young girls rescued from human trafficking and abuse with beauty therapy training and, ultimately, a pathway to rebuild their futures.
Robyn’s trust in the power of education was strengthened during her first visit to India over a decade ago. During this trip, she met a young boy who, with her support, later completed university. “A decade on, he and his family are now thriving, and they’ve become like family to me,” she reflects.
This experience laid the foundation for Transforming Beauty, which has grown organically from Robyn’s philanthropic efforts. “There are things that come across my path that feel meant for me. Transforming Beauty is one of those projects. As I continue to learn and grow with this initiative, I know it’s something I was put on this earth to do.”
Earlier this year, she travelled to India to officially launch the program and equip training rooms with essential beauty supplies. Transforming Beauty’s curriculum focuses on culturally relevant beauty skills like bridal makeup, nail art, hair removal, and facials. The program aims to give the girls a Certificate III level qualification, giving them the confidence to enter a salon setting and earn a wage.
Robyn also addresses the profound challenge of illiteracy many girls face. “Beauty therapy is such a practical, hands-on industry, which is why it’s so well-suited for teaching these girls,” she shares. She is developing visual and audio learning tools to support their training further and ensure that language and literacy barriers don’t hinder their progress.
Despite their unimaginable hardships, Robyn is continually inspired by the resilience and joy that surrounds her. She recalls visiting the shelter during the Holi festival, a celebration filled with laughter and smiles. “Inside the shelter, their stories don’t define them. They’re given a safe space to recover and just be themselves.”
Transforming Beauty has added new depth to Robyn’s perspective on the beauty industry. “I used to think our impact was solely on our clients, but I’ve realised how life-changing this industry can be for those working there. When we come together to support projects like this, small contributions combine to create real, meaningful change.”
Looking ahead, Robyn plans to launch ‘Transformation Tours’, where beauty therapists worldwide can travel to India, mentor the girls, and share their skills. Her long-term vision is to establish a non-profit salon, where graduates can develop careers in a supportive, real-world environment.
Her advice to other beauty professionals who want to make a difference? “Don’t wait for everything to be perfect. Just start. When your intentions are pure, the doors will open. And for those who want to support us, your donations can help us provide the necessary resources and support to these girls, ensuring they have a brighter future.”
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