"I've wanted to be a hairdresser since I was in primary school," Katarina says. "I left school early to start my career and, after a year working in a salon, I started my apprenticeship".

Katarina was lucky enough to have full support from her parents, teachers, and friends.

"I actually got my apprenticeship through my favourite teacher at school - her partner owns the salon," Katarina says. "And my friends were excited for me, because I was so certain about what I wanted to do. They had no idea what careers they wanted".

Katarina was inspired to be a hairdresser when she saw her cousin working. The creative aspect also appealed to Katarina, as well as the fact that, in her own words, she is "a bit crazy about [her] own hair".

"I love being able to work and train in the salon. I get to meet so many amazing people and build my career at the same time. It's so much better than sitting in a classroom".

Many of Katarina's clients have asked her for advice on getting into a career in hairdressing. 

"I always says that if you have the opportunity to get an apprenticeship then do it," Katarina says. "If they can get a foot in the door with trades then they should go for it!"

Katarina would love to own a salon one day. She also hopes to do more presentation work and behind the scenes work, too.