Why it matters: Andrea Filkor's success demonstrates how local education can launch international careers, with the 27-year-old crediting her tutors with building the confidence that helped her win the Dermalogica Rising Star Patron Award.
The details: Filkor, from Mezőkövesd in Hungary, studied two beauty therapy courses at Suffolk New College between 2019 and 2021 after moving to Ipswich from her homeland, where she had previously gained a nail-related qualification and worked in hospitality and care.
The award, sponsored by BABTAC and CIBTAC, recognises professionals in the early stages of their careers who show strong potential and dedication.
After completing an online introduction and qualifications stage, Filkor was selected as a finalist and invited to a face-to-face practical assessment and interview. The awards ceremony took place in November, though she could not attend in person due to distance.
What happened next: After leaving college, Filkor started working in the spa industry but returned to Hungary in 2021 for family reasons. She now works as a holistic skin therapist, salon owner and international brand independent beauty educator, whilst also offering free workshops to schools.
What she's saying: "I was incredibly honoured to receive the Dermalogica Rising Star Patron Award," Filkor said. "Winning, to me, means embracing continuous growth. In the beauty industry, success isn't just about climbing the ladder – it's about staying curious, mastering the craft, and sharing what you learn."
On her college experience, she said: "The teachers were kind, supportive and genuinely cared about our progress – which really helped our confidence."
Her advice to others: "Keep learning, stay curious, and take opportunities to develop – but also remember to enjoy both your work and your life. Balance is just as important as ambition."
Looking ahead: Filkor plans to relocate back to Britain with the long-term aim of opening a spa alongside a training space. "I want to create a place where clients can relax and professionals can feel supported while learning new skills," she said.
She also plans to continue her education by completing her Level 5 Education and Training qualification, and is looking forward to collaborating with brands, colleagues and magazines.
The teaching impact: Filkor praised her former tutor Madeline Broughton from Suffolk New College for her support, adding: "Madeline's calm nature and constant encouragement helped me build confidence during my studies, and she played a huge role in inspiring my desire to teach. I'm very grateful for her support and belief in me."
Broughton said: "Andrea was a hard-working student who made the most of her time at college and has now gone on to win this national acclaim. Her determination and passion to succeed and give back to other via teaching in the future is an inspiration to us all."
The bottom line: From Ipswich classroom to national award winner, Filkor's journey shows how local education can provide the foundation for international success – and she's not finished yet.
