From side hustle to sweet success
Meet SFX Alumna Monique Swan (Class of 2020)
For Monique, life after school hasn’t followed a straight line—and that’s exactly what makes her story so powerful.
While at St Francis Xavier College, Monique discovered an early passion working in a busy Italian restaurant. What started as a casual job quickly grew into something more, with Monique stepping into a management role and spending seven years immersed in the fast-paced world of hospitality.
But deep down, she wasn’t convinced it was her long-term path.
“I actually wanted to become an electrician,” Monique explains. “I did work experience in Years 10 and 11 and loved the trade, but I realised the culture of the industry wasn’t for me.”
That moment of clarity would become a turning point.
Taking a Chance—and Backing Herself
After graduating, a suggestion from her sister led Monique down a completely new path. In 2021, she enrolled in a nail course… and at the same time, put a deposit down on her first home.
By 2022, she had launched Studio Bellezza, running her nail business on weekends while continuing to work six days a week managing the restaurant.
It was a relentless schedule—but one that laid the foundation for something bigger.
When One Door Closes…
In August 2024, everything changed.
The restaurant Monique had dedicated years to was sold, and she was given just seven days’ notice.
“It was the toughest news I had received,” she says. “But I chose to see it as an opportunity for a fresh start.”
With a trip to Sri Lanka and the Maldives already booked, Monique planned to take some time out. But life had other plans.
Just weeks later, the perfect opportunity appeared—a small but thriving business for sale.
Building a Dream Life
By September 2024, Monique became the proud owner of Donut Bouquet Canberra, a unique gift delivery service creating handcrafted donut bouquets, gift boxes and hampers.
Today, she runs both Studio Bellezza and Donut Bouquet Canberra from her own home—something she once only dreamed about.
“I still have pinch-me moments every day,” she says. “My full-time job is creating donut bouquets and gift hampers—it doesn’t feel real.”
Her success hasn’t gone unnoticed. Monique has been recognised as a finalist in:
Australian Women’s Business Awards
Local Business Awards
And most recently, The Australian Small Business Awards (2026)
Defining Success on Her Own Terms
Now 23, Monique’s life is a blend of business, creativity and balance. Alongside running two successful ventures, she teaches ballet two nights a week and enjoys life with her two beloved border collies.
Her journey is also a powerful reminder that there’s no single path to success.
“I was never interested in going to university just for the sake of it,” she says. “And I’m so grateful SFX reinforced that university isn’t the only option. It took the pressure off needing to have everything figured out straight after school.”
“I Can’t Wait to See What’s Next”
Monique’s story is still being written—and that’s the most exciting part.
“I’m only 23,” she says. “I can’t wait to see where the rest of my life takes me.”
At SFX, we’re proud to celebrate alumni like Monique—young people who back themselves, embrace change, and create opportunities on their own terms.