Middelburg – Susca Le Roux grew up on a farm in Ellisras, Limpopo, mesmerised by colour and creativity. About 31 years later, she has transformed that childhood fascination into Susca Watts Academy, a leading beauty training institution in Mpumalanga.
The academy has earned a reputation for high-quality, accredited training that equips thousands of young South Africans with confidence, professional skills, and a pathway to careers and entrepreneurship.
“I was always fascinated by how beauty can transform not just appearance, but confidence,” she says. “I wanted to create opportunities, not just for myself, but for young women who deserved a chance to shine.”
Susca Watts Academy began with a bold vision to provide high quality, accredited training that leads directly to jobs and entrepreneurial success. What started as one small campus in Middelburg has grown into multiple locations, including Ellisras, Pretoria and Emalahleni.
“Growth came from quality,” Le Roux says. “When parents and employers see excellence, trust follows.”
The academy stands out because it nurtures the whole profession, not just technical skills. Students gain business skills, client interaction expertise, industry professionalism and above all self-belief.
“We build confidence as much as we build skills,” she says proudly. “Empowerment means giving people the mindset and tools to create their own opportunities.”
Their most sought-after courses — hairdressing, nail technology, health and skincare, and makeup artistry — attract young people eager to unleash creativity while securing financial independence.
Le Roux beams when speaking about her more than 300 graduates who now run successful salons, employ others and uplift their communities. Many return to mentor or motivate current students, creating a cycle of empowerment. “Seeing learners succeed keeps me grounded,” she says. “Their achievements are my greatest reward.”
The academy’s impact is particularly visible in Middelburg and surrounding areas, where graduates boost the local economy through job creation and professional services.
Vocational training is considered as one of the antidotes to address South Africa’s youth high unemployment rate. To contribute towards lessening the burden, the academy has partnered on Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) funded programmes, including securing free hairdressing training for 200 young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“We are committed to making education accessible and impactful,” she says. “Our work is community work.”
Looking ahead, Le Roux envisions a horizon filled with innovation. She plans to expand advanced and digital learning options to reach even more youth across South Africa while preserving the intimate, personal attention that defines the academy.
“A generation of skilled, confident beauty professionals who not only succeed but also give back,” she says. “Susca Watts Academy must always remain a place of excellence, opportunity and heart.”
