IMA Student to Industry Professional – Nabeel Hussain 

Nabeel Hussain is a proud graduate of The Iver Makeup Academy, making his journey especially inspiring for current and future students. After completing his training, he progressed from trainee roles into professional positions within the Film and TV hair and makeup industry, gaining invaluable on-set experience along the way.

We caught up with Nabeel recently to talk about the early stages of his career and what he is up to now.

What first made you want to begin working in this industry? When was that, and how old were you?

In 2016, when I was 30 years old, I didn’t think I would be working in the industry, I knew that I wanted to learn and practice my craft. It wasn’t until I was at The Iver Makeup Academy where I learnt that there was a place for me in the industry, where I could continue to develop my skills, learn from others and work in the industry as a ‘real job’.

How did you find out about The Iver Makeup Academy?

I saw a poster on the underground tube station whilst I was on my way to work (for my old job) and I stopped to read it. I then made a call to attend an Open Day.

What courses did you do?

I completed the Industry Ready Certificate in Makeup and Hair Artistry, then I returned to upskill on the advanced modules to increase my skills and knowledge.

What was your experience like at The Iver Makeup Academy?

I had the greatest time. As I said, I didn’t think about working in the industry when I started the course, as a ‘mature student’ I was excited to be learning something new every day, feeling supported and encouraged. It was a gift to be able to find a new path opening for me. For sure I wasn’t the best student in my class, I kept making mistakes, but I persisted and was super keen.

What was your favourite element/subject throughout your studies?

Obviously, the tutors and industry experts. They helped shape and form the hair and makeup artist I am today. Aside from the skills learnt, I kept asking how to manage a work/life balance, I learnt these valuable lessons from them, and I am forever grateful for that. Also, meeting fellow graduates on jobs today is such a joy as we have shared experiences.

Favourite moment in your career so far?

I worked as a personal hair and makeup artist for a lovely actress on a film called Rumours which premiered at Cannes Film Festival in 2024. This felt like a pinch me moment, working on a project and then it being screened at a prestigious festival.

What releases have you worked on?

Starting my career with Stan & Ollie, Holmes & Watson, Men in Black – International, Eurovision Song Contest, Fantastic Beasts: Secrets of Dumbledore. I then progressed to artist level working on TV for Citadel, Black Mirror, Mary & George and then films such as Saltburn, Good Grief and Rumours.

What has been the favourite Project/Production that you have worked on so far?

They all provide me with positive memories; I try not to have one favourite. My favourite part is watching and learning, seeing experienced hair and makeup artists as well as trainees – I feel joy (and jealousy) in being in such a creative environment every day.

What has been the most challenging project?

The work/life balance is challenging. I try and stay positive, eat healthy, sleep well and go to work with a mindset to be a team player, that helps me stay grounded.  I also take time off where I can.

What aspirations do you have in terms of future projects?

I am always looking at ways to grow, develop my level of experience and continue to try and be better and learn from others from all levels. I would love to design one day and look after a team who have a similar mindset as I do.

 What is a staple product for your kit?

Massage chair for the car, it is not in my kit, but I use it every day I go to work, at the end of everyday I switch it on on my way home and helps my back as I have terrible posture.

What is your favourite makeup brand and why?

I don’t have a favourite brand, as a hair and makeup artist you are able to work with anything and constantly evolving (especially when the products you use are discontinued). Saying that, all the kit I was given from the Iver Academy I used and replaced because they knew what I would need when I first started and those items are still in my set bag everyday.

Favourite film/tv show makeup wise?

Currently, Shogun

Who would you most like to work with celebrity wise?

Madhuri Dixit

Favourite celebrity you’ve worked with and why?

Judy Dench. I was a trainee at the time and she helped me dispel the myth of putting celebrities on a pedestal. On that job I learned that we all have a role and part of a team. There is a hierarchy in terms of the responsibilities we are given but at the end of the day we are allowed to laugh and enjoy the experiences we have when working, otherwise you progress into a career without any good memories.

Advice you would give to new or aspiring MUA’s?

You guessed it, have fun! Do your job with grace and positivity. Be open to learning something new every day and forgive yourself when you’ve done something “wrong”. We all make mistakes and sometimes it’s ok to say “no” to a job and rest! This is so that you can be your best self on another job. Build relationships with different department, you never know who you will meet again in the years ahead in your career. The industry has a place for each of you; it’s up to you to find where you want to be and when. You have to try and get your foot in the door (that’s the hardest part), but when you do, you decide if you want to stay or do something else. The hair and makeup department has so many sub-roles and responsibilities. Some are better suited to individuals, and some aren’t. You won’t know that until you experience the different aspects of the roles when you are working.

When I started, I wanted to know everything, truth is, I can’t know everything. That is ok. I can only offer my best self. That is all you can do. Can’t believe I’m saying this, but be your best self, others will see that and you will thrive in the direction you want to. You don’t have to follow my path; you can follow a path that suits you in your time. Remember, every now and again, take a breath and look around you, take in that moment from how far you’ve come to where you are now. You’ll be working in some weird and wonderful places. I hope I am lucky enough to meet you and work with you one day.

Interested in following in Nabeel’s footsteps?

Explore the Industry Ready Certificate in Makeup and Hair Artistry – the same course that launched Nabeel’s journey into the screen industries.