At Amani Spa & Wellness, we celebrate the individuals who make our team extraordinary. This month, we shine the spotlight on Christelle Pink, our Group Training Director, whose passion, expertise, and commitment to empowering others have touched countless lives across Africa – including our own.
A Journey of Resilience and Purpose
Christelle’s path to becoming a leading trainer is a story of resilience and dedication. She began her career studying beauty therapy at 19, qualifying just a few years later. Though she initially worked as a therapist, a life-changing car accident early in her career forced her to pivot.
“That accident was devastating,” Christelle recalls. “I couldn’t work as a therapist for over a year, but it also led me to discover my true calling—training. It wasn’t just something I wanted to do; it was who I was meant to be.”
What followed was an inspiring journey of entrepreneurship and education. Christelle started her own beauty school in a small rented office, teaching part-time learners. But she wanted more, and she jumped at the opportunity when she was invited to become a franchisee for the renowned Face2Face Beauty Schools – eventually expanding to manage 10 franchise outlets. Later, she founded her own Complete School of Hair, Beauty, and Makeup, which operated successfully for over eight years.
“I never set out to be a business owner,” she admits. “But opportunities came, and I just kept saying yes. It wasn’t always easy, but I was driven by the joy of teaching and seeing others succeed.”
From Personal Passion to Community Transformation
Today, over and above the ongoing training & development at Amani’s multi-national spas, Christelle leads Amani’s Mobile Training Programs. She brings her decades of invaluable experience to a role that is as much about community upliftment as it is about education. Amani’s mobile training academy goes directly into tourism-rich remote destinations, offering opportunities to rural women who might never have access to formal education or jobs.
“We go where we’re needed most,” Christelle explains. “Our goal is to transform lives by teaching skills that create sustainable careers. These women don’t just learn a trade—they gain independence, security, and the ability to provide for their families.”
The program is life-changing not just for the trainees but for their communities as well. Christelle recalls one trainee who, after completing the program, became the sole breadwinner for her family. “When we asked her how she saw her future, she said, ‘An end to poverty at home.’ That’s what we’re doing at Amani—together, we’re changing lives.”
The Amani Training Experience
Amani’s mobile training programs are tailored to meet the needs of both trainees, and the lodges and hotels seeking to uplift their communities and enhance their guest experience. Over an intensive five-week course, trainees learn everything from professional conduct and communication skills to treatment techniques.
The training is practical and immersive. After their initial assessment at the end of the five weeks, trainees complete a number of case studies, logging hours of practice over a three-month period before undergoing a final exam. Those who pass receive a Certificate of Competence.
“It’s incredible to watch their transformation,” Christelle shares. “We meet them as women with no prior experience, and by the end, they’re confident, capable professionals.”
Leadership Rooted in Humility and Empathy
Christelle’s leadership style is grounded in humility and a deep understanding of people. She believes the best trainers are those who focus on their students, not themselves.
“Training isn’t about showing how great you are—it’s about meeting people where they are and helping them grow,” she says. “We create a safe space where they can make mistakes, learn at their own pace, and become the best version of themselves.”
Her ability to intuitively identify potential is another hallmark of her expertise. “I can just feel when someone is right for this industry,” she explains. “Skills can be taught, but empathy, stamina, and a love for people—that’s what makes a great therapist.”
Building Better Managers
In addition to training therapists, Christelle is passionate about nurturing spa managers—a role she feels is often misunderstood.
“A good therapist doesn’t automatically make a good manager,” she points out. “Management requires a completely different skill set—leadership, organisation, sales acumen, and the ability to create a positive team culture.”
At Amani, managers are trained to balance operational excellence with team leadership. Christelle believes this dual focus is key to creating successful, harmonious spa environments.
The Reward of Making a Difference
Despite the challenges of her work, including long hours and time away from home, Christelle remains deeply committed to Amani’s mission.
“This isn’t just a job—it’s a calling,” she says. “We’re not just teaching skills; we’re giving people the tools to build better lives for themselves and their families. And that’s something I’m proud to be a part of.”
Her humility shines through in her reflection on the work she does: “This is who I am,” Christelle says simply. “And I’m proud to do this work with a team that shares the same vision and values.”
Celebrate the inspiring people behind Amani Spa & Wellness. Learn more about our training programs and how we’re empowering communities across Africa.
