Hema Varma: Turning Passion Into Purpose Through Beauty, Education, and Perseverance
“Dream big until you achieve your goal. Don’t let fear stop you, and don’t let success change you. Stay focused, stay grateful, and keep working.”
“Dream big until you achieve your goal.” For Hema Varma, these are more than just words—they’re a way of life. As the Director of HS Angels Makeovers Academy & Studio, an internationally certified beauty, hair, and nail art artist, and a pro makeup educator, she has built a career defined by passion, resilience, and a commitment to empowering others.
A Passion Born Early
Hema’s journey in the world of beauty began while she was still in school. “I started my career in my 10th standard through a government beautician course,” she recalls. What began as a simple curiosity quickly grew into a lifelong pursuit. After working as a cosmetic logic assistant and training students at government institutes, life took a turn—marriage, family pressures, and health struggles threatened to put her dreams on hold.
“I never gave up,” she says firmly. “Even during difficult times, I knew I had to return to my field.” With unwavering support from her family—her parents, sisters, brother, husband, and young son—Hema rebuilt her career step by step. She credits her father as her greatest inspiration: “He’s my superhero. Today, I stand strong because of my parents’ guidance and belief in me.”
Building a Career With Heart
Hema is a self-motivated professional whose love for beauty, hair, and makeup artistry goes beyond aesthetics. “I’m passionate about teaching,” she says. “Guiding and educating students gives me self-satisfaction and motivates me to move forward.”
Her dedication has earned her significant milestones, including recognition at SimaExpo 2023 and the Guruji South India Makeover Awards 2022. She is currently nominated for Gala 2024 Creative Makeup Educator and the Business Award for Director of HS Angels Makeovers, Shine Beauty Institute and Fashion Technology.
But the road to success wasn’t smooth. “I faced many challenges, especially from family expectations and competitive pressures in the industry. I suffered a lot to build my career,” she shares. Yet through it all, her hardworking nature, enthusiasm to learn, and spiritual grounding kept her focused.
Recognition Through Relentless Effort
Awards and accolades are markers of her progress, but Hema sees them as reminders of responsibility rather than reasons to slow down. “Being nominated or recognized in this industry means I have to work harder, not just for myself but for the students I mentor,” she says.
Her role as a jury member at FEMI 92025 and her work as an organizer of major beauty events highlight her influence in shaping industry standards. “I want to help raise the next generation of makeup and beauty professionals to levels higher than I ever reached,” she explains.
Values That Shape Her Work
When asked what principles guide her, Hema responds without hesitation: hard work, focus, and an eagerness to learn something new every day. “I don’t allow myself to be complacent,” she says. “Every project, every student is an opportunity to improve.”
Balancing career and personal life is another area where Hema has found strength. “I’m a multitasking woman,” she says with pride. “I’ve given equal importance to family and career. My spiritual nature helps me stay grounded, and I never let overthinking overwhelm me.”
Giving Back and Looking Ahead
As the Director of HS Angels Makeovers Academy & Studio, Hema has taken on more than just business leadership—she’s building a platform to uplift others. She plans to expand her academy across India and eventually create a lasting institution that nurtures talent nationwide.
Her vision doesn’t stop at business. “I want to help people in need,” she says. “One of my dreams is to build an orphanage and an old age home. Success means nothing if you can’t share it with those who need it most.”
What Keeps Her Moving Forward
For Hema, motivation is rooted in seeing her students succeed. “When I guide students and see them flourish in their careers, it’s the best feeling,” she says. That sense of purpose drives her through long days, industry challenges, and the constant push for excellence.
She’s quick to acknowledge those who stood by her during her toughest times: “I’m thankful to Shiva Sir and Jayasree Madam, the founders of HS Angels Makeovers. Their guidance helped me stand tall again.”
Advice for Young Women
Hema believes passion and respect are the foundations of any meaningful career. “Always respect your elders and parents,” she says. “Be passionate about your dreams, and one day you will achieve success, no matter how long it takes.”
Her story is proof that determination paired with humility can overcome even the toughest obstacles.
A Life Shaped by Family and Faith
Looking back, Hema remains deeply grateful to her loved ones. “Without my family and friends, I wouldn’t be here. My parents, my loving sisters and brother, my husband and son—they’ve all understood me and guided me through low times. Their support is my strength.”
This gratitude, combined with her drive to keep learning and teaching, gives Hema Varma a rare depth as both a professional and a person.