From full-time carer to empowering educator: A journey of resilience

Case Study: From full-time carer to empowering educator: A journey of resilience and reinvention

Shabana’s Perspective

My journey began without any formal education. For years, my life was devoted entirely to caring for my son, who had been diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, a progressive and terminal condition. Later, my third child was also diagnosed with the same illness. In 2013, I experienced an unimaginable loss when he passed away. That moment changed everything.

Three years later, during one of the most difficult periods of my life, one of my son’s carers, Lorne Millar gently encouraged me to take a small step for myself — to enrol in a makeup course at Glasgow Clyde College. I had never worn makeup before; my days had always been consumed by caregiving. But this course represented more than just a new skill, it was a chance to reconnect with myself, to socialise, and to begin rediscovering who I was beyond my role as a carer.

At college, I met Julie Wales, then Senior Lecturer in Beauty Therapy. Julie became a pivotal figure in my life. Her kindness and unwavering support gave me the strength to continue, even when I felt like giving up. I remember sitting an exam in Reflexology while my middle son was in intensive care. I was at my lowest. But Julie believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself. With her encouragement, I passed.

Julie continued to support and inspire me, encouraging me to pursue the HND in Beauty Therapy. I enrolled ... and succeeded. It was a moment of immense pride. Watching Julie advance in her own career inspired me deeply. Her belief in me helped shape the person I am today.

After completing my HND, I began volunteering at Beauty With A Conscience, an organisation whose values resonated with mine. Soon after, I was offered a permanent role. The salon was located just across from the college, bringing my journey full circle. I especially enjoyed mentoring students on placement, helping them grow reminded me of my own beginnings.

When the organisation relocated to the Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice, where my son had also received care, I felt a profound connection to the work. After the organisation closed, I continued this meaningful path by joining PKG Wellness, where I shared my passion for supporting student placements and volunteering at the hospice.

Recently, I had the privilege of seeing a group of students complete their placements. It was a proud and emotional moment. I’ve come to realise how much I value helping others find their confidence, because I know what it’s like to start from nothing.

During the Covid-19 lockdown, I challenged myself further and completed my Assessor Award. This opened new doors, including a bank lecturing position in Beauty Therapy, a role I was thrilled to accept. I’ve also been actively involved in community work, which has been incredibly fulfilling.

In recent years, I’ve become increasingly aware of the needs of neurodivergent students. Many simply need to feel included and supported. Working with autistic students, in particular, has become a passion of mine. I was especially moved when a parent wrote to thank me for making her daughter feel seen and valued.

I owe so much to those who believed in me; Fiona Watson, Michelle Bagdonas, Emma Pearce, and most of all, Julie Wales. Their encouragement and support transformed my life.

Today, I stand not only as a mother and carer, but also as an educator, mentor, and advocate, using my journey to uplift and empower others.

Julie’s Perspective

When Shabana first joined my class at Glasgow Clyde College, she arrived with little confidence and limited coordination. I wondered if she would be able to master even the basics of skincare or massage techniques. But what stood out immediately was her warmth and compassion. With just a few words of encouragement, she began to flourish. Her coordination improved, her skills developed rapidly, and it became clear that she had a natural talent for therapy.

Over the next three years, Shabana progressed steadily, moving from one level to the next and ultimately completing her HND. Her assessments were of exceptional quality, and clients adored her. She had become a truly gifted therapist.

Throughout her training, I learned of the profound personal challenges she faced, including the loss of her child and her ongoing role as a full-time carer. Her resilience was nothing short of inspiring. On difficult days, I often reminded myself of her strength and perseverance.

After qualifying, Shabana began volunteering at Beauty With A Conscience, providing high-quality treatments and mentoring students. She quickly became a valued member of the team and was soon offered a permanent role.

Never one to remain still, Shabana went on to complete her Assessor Award and joined the college as a bank lecturer, a moment of great pride for all of us. Her work at Wellness With A Conscience, now based within the hospice, continues to provide a nurturing environment for both clients and students. One student in particular, navigating her own neurodivergent journey, has thrived under Shabana’s guidance.

Shabana is truly exceptional; as a mother, carer, therapist, lecturer, and leader. It has been a privilege to witness her journey and to see her grow into the remarkable woman she is today.

Image shows L-R, Michelle Bagdonas, Julie Wales and Shabana Ahmed