About Us
Our journey began on the sunny shores of the Caribbean and has flourished across the diverse landscapes of Canada, spanning a rich heritage of over four decades in the dynamic world of spa and beauty. Here, the essence of true mastery is unveiled – a place where the artful interplay of theory and hands-on practice flourishes. We stand committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment that celebrates diversity in all its forms. Recognizing the unique beauty in every skin tone, hair texture, and body type, our curriculum is designed to equip estheticians with the proficiency to excel across the full spectrum of client diversity.
Elevating Esthetics Training
With over 30 years of experience, our founder has meticulously tailored an elite and inclusive learning experience. We’re not just educators; we’re cultivators of a legacy, shaping skills and nurturing dreams in the expansive field of esthetics.
Refining Artistry Post-Graduation
We dive deep into the subtleties that extend beyond textbooks and tutorials. Our immersive training oasis is a testament to our commitment to nurturing a passion for esthetics in an environment enriched by diversity and guided by the wisdom of seasoned professionals.
Accessible Mastery, Diverse Expertise
Our expert-led, experience-driven courses are crafted to be as diverse as the clientele you will serve. They offer flexible, asynchronous learning coupled with one-on-one mentorship, enabling you to confidently provide services to all skin types, hair textures, and body shapes.
Practical Wisdom for Every Client
Our courses stand out through a profound commitment to practicality and inclusivity, equipping trainees with the skills to serve a diverse clientele. By demonstrating on live models with various hair textures and thicknesses, learners gain firsthand experience and confidence. This ensures that the techniques learned are not only comprehensive but also applicable across different beauty scenarios, truly preparing estheticians to meet the individual needs of every client they encounter.
Unified in Excellence, Diverse in Perspective
What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to inclusivity in practice. Trainees thrive by learning how to apply the knowledge learnt to reflect on a practice to cater to all people, a myriad of beauty, ensuring the skills honed are as diverse as the clients they will encounter.
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And find out how we prioritise diversity and inclusivity, and our commitment to education that serves all clients' needs.
Dr. Aba Mortley
Dr. Aba Mortley is an embodiment of multifaceted excellence – a dedicated community leader, a successful entrepreneur, and a passionate educator. Her academic journey took her from Trinidad and Tobago to Kingston, Ontario, where she completed an undergraduate degree in Engineering at Queen’s University, followed by a Master’s and a Ph.D. in Materials and Chemical Engineering at the Royal Military College. Beyond her impressive academic credentials, Dr. Mortley is known for her profound commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and community service.
As an entrepreneur, she has brought the Cher-Mère brand to life in Canada, establishing day spas that not only offer esthetic services but also champion eco-conscious personal care products suitable for all ages and skin tones. Her innovative spirit shone through amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, when she developed self-care boxes complemented by virtual guides to support the community and other local businesses.
Dr. Mortley’s educational contributions are equally notable. At St. Lawrence College, she was instrumental in creating the “Texture with Confidence” project, addressing a gap in the market by teaching and supporting hair stylists in working with textured hair. In recognition of her outstanding work, her efforts to build an inclusive community, and her dedication to serving on various boards and committees, St. Lawrence College honored her with an Honorary Diploma during their 2023 convocation ceremonies. Aba is also a teacher and professor at St. Lawrence College in their esthetics department.
Her community involvement extends further as she has served on several boards, including the Queen’s University Council on Anti-Racism and Equity as co-chair, the Downtown Business Association, and as a member of the Kingston Economic Recovery Team. Dr. Mortley also makes a difference through volunteer work with organizations like Youth Diversion and by leading initiatives that foster dialogue and action towards an equitable and anti-racist future.
At home, Dr. Mortley is a mother of four and partners with her husband, Ted, in both family life and community engagement, exemplifying teamwork and mutual support. Her life story and career reflect a commitment not only to personal and business success but to enhancing the lives of others and making a positive impact on society
In addition to her academic and entrepreneurial endeavors, Dr. Aba Mortley’s dedication to her community has been recognized through prestigious accolades. She is the recipient of the First Capital Honourable Achievement Award from the City of Kingston, Ontario, a testament to her significant contributions to the city’s wellbeing and her influential role in its development. Her commitment to youth and community service was further acknowledged when she was honored with the Nick Bala Distinguished Service Award from Youth Diversion, celebrating her efforts in positively impacting the lives of young people. These awards highlight not only her professional and volunteer achievements but also her profound influence as a catalyst for change and a builder of community resilience
Our Team
Embracing Diversity, Empowering Skills
At Diverse Esthetics Institute we’re proud to present a team of distinguished esthetic professionals who bring a wealth of experience from Ontario and Trinidad. Our instructors are the heart of our educational journey, each bringing their unique perspective and specialized knowledge to the table. They are passionate about sharing their extensive expertise in esthetics, gained from years of hands-on practice across diverse populations.
Our Instructors: From Trinidad's Radiance to Ontario's Precision
Our team’s story begins on the sun-soaked shores of Trinidad, an island renowned for its vibrant beauty traditions and rich esthetic heritage. Here, our Trinidad’s Treasures – a cadre of instructors – bring not just their expertise but the warmth of Caribbean hospitality. They are the custodians of tropical beauty secrets passed down through generations, eager to share their profound knowledge of natural, time-honored wellness practices.
This tropical expertise seamlessly blends with the cutting-edge precision of our Ontario’s Finest. This cohort from the heart of Canada comprises seasoned veterans in the beauty industry who are wizards of modern esthetics. Skilled in the latest techniques and trends, these professionals have refined their craft through extensive practice across a diverse clientele, promising an education that is as comprehensive as it is exceptional.
Together, our team weaves a tapestry of global beauty intelligence. They are the bridge between the rich traditions of the Caribbean and the innovative spirit of Canada, uniting to provide an unparalleled learning experience. With every lesson, they bring the world of esthetics into a harmonious balance – the natural with the scientific, the ancestral with the avant-garde, the tropical with the cosmopolitan.
Join us, where the beauty wisdom of Trinidad meets the sophisticated skill of Ontario, creating an educational journey that transcends borders and nurtures excellence.
Join Us at Diverse Esthetics Institute
Where learning is a collective endeavor, diversity is our strength, and your success in the world of esthetics is our highest goal.
Our Approach
Widening the Lens: In keeping with our ethos, our diverse team is committed to widening the lens through which esthetic education is viewed. We provide learnt knowledge that encompasses a global perspective, catering to all who walk through our virtual doors.
Tailored Feedback: Each course includes one-on-one virtual sessions allowing for personalized guidance. Our instructors offer constructive, individualized feedback to help you refine your technique and enhance your professional growth.
Our Commitment
To Inclusivity: We celebrate the diversity of our team and our clients. This inclusive approach ensures that our courses are reflective of the real world, preparing you to confidently serve a diverse clientele.
To Excellence: Our team is united by a shared commitment to excellence. Every course, every lesson, every piece of advice is geared towards making you not just an esthetician but a master of the craft.