Judges From Around the World that Support Nailympia Competitions

6 Nailympia Judge

Valerie Ducharme

Canada

Area of judging expertise: Mixed Media , Flat Art , Fantasy Complete Nails , Bling/Crystal Styling , Salon Nail Art , Runway Nails , Extreme Poster Nail Styling

Years as a judge: 6

Number of Nailympia events judged: 6

Nailympia events judged: Canada, Orlando, Online

Are you an educator?: Yes

Industry accolades: Winner Next Top Nails Artist Season 5 NTNA - Nails Magazine Top 18 au NAILS next top nails artist NTNA season 4 - Nails magazine Canadian Fan Favourite of the Year - Beauty Industry ABA Canadian Nail Artist of the Year - Contessa Canadian Nail Artist of the Year - Miroir Award Mix Mania Fan Favorite - Canada Nails Cup First Place - Canada Nail Cup Blinged Educator of the Year - Nail Addict Magazine Golden hand Of Canada Online winners Leader in the Industry in Quebec, Canada My mission has always been to elevate the standards in the industry through inspiration & education. Through my actions, I demonstrate that all dreams are achievable.

Favourite nail brands: My favourite brands are, of course, my own - VD Nail Products, En Vogue Gel, CND & Kupa Inc.

Industry figures you admire: I admire many people in the industry for their skills & unique contributions. But I also greatly admire all my students who show courage & determination to succeed in this exceptional field. I admire all of you participants for daring to show your colours, for having the courage to step out of your comfort zones & for being the inspirations of tomorrow for yourselves & your peers. Thank you for being here. If you would like some names, hihi, here are a few examples: For technique: Olena Oezman For the fashion industry, art, leadership & entrepreneurship: Jan Arnold of CND For personality: Kirsty Meakin For generosity: Suzie from Nail Career Education

Career biography: Valérie Ducharme is a leader in the nail industry in Quebec, a visionary, a world-renowned artist, an accomplished entrepreneur, an inspiring coach & a sought-after speaker. Founder of her own academy & owner of a distribution centre in Canada, she shares her passion with thousands through professional training & innovative coaching. In 2017, she launched her own line of nail products, which led her to teach across Canada & the United States. Valérie is a respected judge in prestigious nail art competitions & her creations have been showcased at fashion shows in New York & exhibited in a museum in California. Before fully dedicating herself to her passion for nails, Valérie owned a multi-service salon. Known for her influence, innovation & creativity, Valérie inspires & influences technician entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams with her dynamism & passion for the nail & beauty industries.

Personal biography: I'm a passionate person who loves life. Besides nails, which allow my creativity to take shape, I draw & I am writing a book (shh, it's a surprise). I love challenges, as you can see. I read a lot about personal development, even though it pushes me out of my comfort zone. I am a pilot (yes, yes, of a plane), I love nature, hacking, camping & kayaking. I am part of a dragon boat team. I am a witch~medium, hihi. I love tarot & I am a traveller. I am the mother of two daughters, aged 17 & 18, & have been in a loving partnership for 21 years. I am also a 'jeep girl'.

Why you believe in nail competitions?: Why do I believe so much in competition? Oh my God, competition not only elevates the individual & the technician to become a better version of themselves, but it also helps to elevate the entire industry. We don't compete to surpass others, but to surpass ourselves. Of course, this includes technical improvements, but I would say the mental aspect is even more important. Competition is about exposing yourself to the world with courage & vulnerability. It is also about building your authentic inner space to gain confidence & assurance. Competition pushes us to push our limits, to learn & to constantly evolve. It fosters innovation & excellence, not only on an individual level but also within the entire professional community. By taking on challenges, we develop resilience & determination, which are essential for success in this dynamic & demanding industry.

Advice to competitors: First, remember to have fun. Do it for yourself. You have more tools than you think, more than your past experiences. Don’t hold back. If you’re scared, it means you’re in the right place, outside your comfort zone. The industry needs you & your unique artistic essence. Next, carefully read the rules & check the scoring sheets. Research the judges in each category you’re participating in. Prepare yourself, practice, meditate, breathe & 'fake it until you make it', if you lose confidence, it's normal. Don’t compare yourself to others, only to yourself. Comparing yourself to others will harm your originality, results & creations. Don’t forget to have fun & enjoy every moment. Competition is an opportunity for growth & learning, so savour the journey as much as the destination.

Nail work

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