Holmesglen Institute’s annual Services Awards shine a spotlight on the future leaders of industry across fields like hospitality, health, fitness, beauty, sport, and tourism. Part of the Institute’s broader awards season, the event celebrates students who bring passion, dedication, and professionalism to their studies.
Among this year’s honourees was Dimali Hollupathiranalage, one of the few students recognised across two fields of study, receiving Outstanding Student Awards for Certificate III in Beauty Services and Certificate II in Salon Assistant.
“I was surprised!” Dimali reflects. “I didn’t know until they announced my name that I had received two outstanding student awards. I’m so happy and grateful. I have been working very hard, and it feels good to have my efforts recognised.”
Originally from Sri Lanka, Dimali moved to Australia with experience in the beauty space but, like many newcomers, found the challenge of gaining local experience a barrier to entry. Rather than give up, she pursued nationally recognised training at Holmesglen, one of Victoria’s largest TAFE institutes, enrolling in the two courses.
Balancing both programs is no small feat, but Dimali’s commitment shone through. The Certificate III refined her skills in key treatment areas like makeup, waxing, lash and brow services, manicures, pedicures, and cosmetic tanning. She also learned essential salon operations like client bookings, hygiene, and product recommendations.
At the same time, the Salon Assistant course taught the fundamentals of working in a professional hairdressing environment, covering shampooing, blow-drying, braiding and massage, hygiene, client communication and service skills. Dimali particularly loved the creativity in hair styling and the calm, nurturing energy of relaxation massage.
“My teachers, Natasha and Kelly, inspired me. After finishing each assignment, the comments and the positive feedback they gave is what kept me going,” she shares.
For Dimali, beauty has always felt like home. In addition to her educators, she credits Asoka Thilakarathne, owner of 7th Avenue Salon in Colombo, as someone who encouraged her to pursue a career in the industry.
Now actively seeking her first role in the Australian beauty industry, Dimali hopes for one that will allow her to complete her Diploma of Beauty Therapy while working with clients. She shares that she is inspired by leading brands like Crown Brush, MAC Cosmetics, Jessica Cosmetics and SOTHYS; names she hopes to work with professionally.
“I would love to work as a beautician. My most passionate area is facials, but I also love makeup, waxing, manicures and pedicures,” she adds.
When asked what advice she would give other aspiring beauty professionals, her response reflects the grounded wisdom of someone who has walked the walk.
“Always trust yourself and be confident. If you really love this industry, you won’t fail. Choose the right institution to study who have industry professionals to assist you in achieving your success.”
With her determination, heart, and talent, she’s already an asset to the industry, and her journey is just getting started.
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