Students across the creative industries departments were treated to an inspiring visit, from professional makeup artist and Bradford College alumna, Famida Pathan, who returned to campus to deliver a talk and a hands‑on masterclass.
Famida, who studied at Bradford College in the early 2000s, completed Beauty Therapy Levels 2 and 3, followed by a two‑year Diploma in Media Makeup and Special Effects, graduating around 2004/05. Since then, she has built a successful career in makeup across beauty, bridal, film and media.
Speaking to staff and students, Famida shared how it felt to return to the place where her journey began:
“I’m still a Bradford lass at heart. I come back often because I have family here, but I also still feel connected to Bradford College. I’m passionate about giving back to the community and to new entrants in the industry. I know how important it is to see someone who started where you are now and has made a career from it.”
Famida spoke candidly about the challenges she has faced entering the creative industries; from financial pressures to cultural expectations and a lack of industry connections.
“The journey from where I began wasn’t easy. I had a lot of barriers – financial barriers, community barriers, and personal responsibilities. Coming from a background where makeup wasn’t seen as a ‘real career’ made things difficult.”
She explained how not knowing anyone in the industry was another hurdle she had to learn to overcome:
“When I started, I realised I had no contacts or network. That was a huge challenge, but it didn’t stop me. I had to put myself out there, work hard, and build those connections from scratch.”
To support her ambitions, Famida often worked several jobs at once—freelancing, teaching, retail roles, and taking on short film or bridal jobs, sometimes paid, sometimes unpaid.
“It is possible. I achieved it, but I did juggle a lot. You may have to work double or triple as hard as someone without the same challenges – but it’s doable.”
Her central message to students was one of resilience and determination:
“My advice is simple: don’t give up. Your ambitions are valid, and if you stay resilient, you can achieve them.”
During her visit, Famida toured the College’s ‘The Producing Academy’ facilities, now home to Fashion, Photography, Media Makeup, Performing Arts, and Production spaces all under one roof.
“The facilities are amazing compared to when I was here. This feels like luxury! When I studied, all the departments were separated around campus, and I never understood why. Seeing everything housed together now genuinely makes me happy.”
She praised the College’s new Producing Academy, launched to encourage collaboration between disciplines such as Makeup, Fashion, Film and Photography.
“Bringing departments together mirrors the real industry. When you work in film or fashion, you’re always collaborating with other creative teams. This setup prepares students so much better for the world they’re going into.”
Famida’s visit left a lasting impact on students, who were able to watch her work, ask questions, and gain insight into building a career in the creative sector.
Her story, rooted in Bradford, and shaped at the College, is a powerful reminder that success in the creative industries is achievable, no matter your background.
If you are interested in a media makeup, check out our courses: Media Make up and Special Effects – Bradford College
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