For Neve, representing the UK at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 is the culmination of years of dedication, passion and hard work in an industry she has loved since childhood.
Competing in Beauty Therapy, Neve will take her place on Team UK and represent the nation on the world stage following an impressive WorldSkills UK journey that saw her win Gold Medals at national level.
Neve’s introduction to WorldSkills UK came through college, where she first took part in Local Skills Competitions before progressing through the competition programme and ultimately winning Gold Medals in the national competitions.
“I just went through college and entered the competitions. It all started there and then progressed all the way through.”
Her success in competition reinforced what she had known for years, that beauty therapy was the career she was meant to pursue.
“I’ve always loved it. From when I was about 10 years old, I was doing my nails, experimenting with make-up and trying different treatments. There was never really any doubt that this was the career I want.”
After leaving school, Neve enrolled on a college course and quickly immersed herself in the industry she was so passionate about. Today, she works at Crown Hair and Beauty, where she continues to develop her skills while preparing to represent the UK internationally.
The impact of WorldSkills UK on her career has been significant.
“It’s had a massive impact. I’ve already been able to work in spas and salons and gain opportunities that I don’t think I would have had without WorldSkills UK on my CV.”
Alongside opening doors professionally, Neve says the competitions have transformed her confidence.
“The confidence it has given me is huge. It helps you back yourself and gives you the confidence to go after bigger opportunities and bigger goals.”
Throughout her Team UK journey, Neve has been supported by her employer, Crown Hair and Beauty, who have fully embraced her WorldSkills ambitions.
“They’ve been so supportive. They’ve given me time off when I need it, supported my training and have been behind me every step of the way. I couldn’t ask for anything more.”
Being selected for Team UK remains one of Neve’s proudest achievements.
“It honestly means everything. I don’t think it’s fully sunk in yet. To have the opportunity to represent the UK is absolutely amazing.”
As preparations for Shanghai continue, Neve’s training schedule is packed. Working closely with her Training Manager and specialists from across the UK, she is taking part in intensive technical training, pressure tests and international benchmarking opportunities to ensure she is ready for the world’s biggest skills competition.
“We’re doing as much training as possible with lots of different people to build as much knowledge as we can. Every training session helps us get closer to being the best we can be.”
Like many competitors, Neve has faced challenges throughout her WorldSkills UK journey. One of the biggest has been overcoming self-doubt and pushing herself outside of her comfort zone.
“Getting on trains on my own, travelling around the country, attending bootcamps and meeting new people are things that I wouldn’t have been able to do a year ago.”
She believes those personal challenges have helped her grow just as much as the technical training.
“WorldSkills UK has really helped build my confidence, not just in my skill but as a person.”
Looking ahead to Shanghai, Neve is excited by the opportunity to perform on the global stage.
“I honestly can’t wait to compete. I want to get out there, show the world what I can do and experience the atmosphere of competing alongside the best in the world.”
For anyone considering entering a WorldSkills UK competition, her advice is simple:
“Just do it. The opportunities are incredible. You gain so much extra knowledge, develop your skills and grow in confidence. It helps broaden your career and develop you as a person. It’s been one of the best experiences I’ve ever had.”
