“I’ve always been creative and into art and painting. My dream is to work in special effects movie makeup.”
She said WOW was exciting and inspiring and a great chance to put her training into practice in a professional environment.
“I learned so much, it’s given me more confidence working with people in real life as opposed to in the classroom.
“It was great connecting with other artistic people, I felt like I was making a real contribution.”
Although she was nervous during the first night’s orientation, Robottom said she quickly found her place.
“I’d never been in that real-life, backstage environment with so many talented people... It was fast-paced and sometimes hectic, but a real rush as well.”
By the second week she had formed real connections which fuelled her determination to continue to pursue work in the field.
“I felt a bond with some of the dancers and models, they’d say ‘hi’ backstage. The whole experience has made me more determined to work in this field.”
Tutor Amanda Kisona, who worked alongside the makeup interns, said the live-show experience was a vital stepping stone.
“It’s fast-paced, professional, and invaluable for building confidence.
“Opportunities like WOW give our students a real taste of the industry and open doors into film, theatre and live events.”
WOW attracts about 60,000 people each year and is celebrated globally for its fusion of art, fashion, and performance.
Whitireia and WelTec have been involved with WOW for about 20 years, building a reputation for producing students who can step seamlessly into one of the country’s most demanding creative environments.
Many graduates return year after year as part of the professional makeup and hair teams.
