Collen is one of the best make-up artists at SABC
Collen is proud to be a male make-up artist.
BETHAL – If you think women have the upper hand as make-up artists, wait until you meet Collen Masuku.
The 32-year-old male make-up artist has been working tirelessly to break the stigma that facebeat jobs are only for women.
Born and raised in eMzinoni, Collen is now based in Johannesburg as one of the SABC’s trusted make-up artists.
He began schooling at Langelihle Primary School and completed his matric at iKhethelo Secondary School.
Collen said his journey in the once female-dominated beauty industry has not been easy, but he has always been determined and committed to succeed.
People who learn that he is a make-up artist, often question his sexual orientation and think he is less of a man.
“Some people do not take what I am doing seriously, they think it is useless.
“This is my passion and it brings food on the table.
“I love my job and I am happy.”
He said in this day and age, make-up is genderless and has no rules.
His passion for doing facebeats began when he was young and became interested in special effects, such as bullet wounds, burned faces, broken legs and body painting.
SABC news spotted his talent and then employed him.
He is also a freelancer and has worked with various TV shows such as Date My Family, The Voice SA, My perfect Wedding and YoTV.
He holds a diploma as make-up artist for film and television.
It has never been easy for him – in the beginning of his career he had to walk to Johannesburg’s CBD to look for work.
“I tried so many places, but was turned down.
“But I persisted, because I had a dream.
“I am grateful for the chance the SABC News gave me and I thank God for everyone who gave me the benefit of the doubt.”
His highlights in his career was when he had to do make up Mr Jacob Zuma, former president, and Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, president.
He has a dream of establishing his own make-up rage and put his home town on the map.
Collen is also a musician and has a dream of winning a SAMA.
