If you’ve been considering a change of careers, allow the gorgeous Anien Nauta to inspire you with her story. This talented image consultant-in-training is proof that with hard work and passion, achieving your dreams is always possible.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background.
My clearest memory of my obsession with clothing and all things pretty dates back to when I was a toddler. I used to take my mother’s Huisgenoot, cut out the celebrities in their beautiful outfits at the back of the magazine and paste them into my own little scrapbook. Although a career in fashion design has always been on the top of my wish list, I’ve been practising as a professional architect in Pretoria for six years now. Considering the aforementioned, anything to do with design, art and creativity is clearly a big passion of mine!
As 2019 was the year in which I turned 30, I decided that it was time to pursue my lifelong dream of a sideline career in fashion styling. After exploring a few options, I was referred to Image Innovators SA and decided to enrol for the online training course in May 2019 – I’ve never regretted a single moment of it!
What lead you to want to become an image consultant?
I’ve always had a passion for anything to do with beauty, image and fashion. Besides my own image and appearance being an important part of my everyday life, I find great pleasure in assisting others in putting together outfits and encouraging them to feel good about and confident in themselves. Image consulting is a great combination of all of these interests.
How have you found the experience of training online?
My overall experience with Image Innovators SA has been great so far. The online training is convenient, easy to use and a great option for people like me who need to study part-time. Furthermore, the course content and structure, lessons, mentors and training equipment are of the highest standard.
What has been the highlight of your training so far?
I would say being able to put to practice what I learn and see actual progress and development in my thinking regarding image and style. The knowledge I’ve gained so far is invaluable and I wouldn’t have been able to get so much insight without doing the training. Also being part of the group and having a support system is truly special.
What plans do you have for your business once you’ve completed your training?
Once I’ve completed my training, I would like to kick-off with my own business venture and start consulting right away. Also, I would love to get involved with styling for shows, shoots, publications, etc.
Where do you see yourself and your business in five years time?
By then I see myself owning a successful and well-established image consulting business with a solid list of clients. Apart from a good business, I would also like to be known as an image consultant who has a passion for what she does and empowers people by helping them discover the best version of themselves both inside and out.
Do you have any advice for people who are considering becoming an image consultant?
If you have a passion for it, don’t wait to follow your dreams – go for it! I think that being an image consultant is one of the most rewarding jobs as you have the ability to really impact lives on a very personal level. I also think that it’s important to realise that the job requires hard work and constantly putting yourself out there. It takes time and effort to initially find clients and once you have them, it’s important to look after them and provide the best service you possibly can.
To keep up with Anien, follow her on Instagram.
Interested in training online? Click here for more information.