Posts Tagged ‘Premiere Orlando’
Top 40 announced in North America’s Star Nail Artist contest: Season 1
An impressive 30,000 nail artists across Canada, the USA and Mexico expressed interest in the first season of North America’s Star Nail Artist contest, and the top 40 techs – who will compete for a grand prize – have been revealed.
Powered by the team behind Scratch magazine and Nailympia Competitions, North America’s Star Nail Artist (‘NASNA’) is a free online contest that champions professional creativity and artistry. Monthly challenges will be revealed – from October 2024 to April 2025, with eliminations after each, until the top three competitors are unveiled in May 2025.
These three competitors will be flown to the Premiere Orlando trade event, at which an event will be hosted to reveal the champion, who scoops a prize package with a $10,000 value: a mix of cash and industry opportunities.
Meet the 40 shortlisted pros who be be battling it out to be named North America’s Star Nail Artist:
- Aisha Corcoran – Alberta, Canada
- Amberley Robinson – New Mexico, USA
- Anastasia Totty – Florida, USA
- Ashley Biasella – Arizona, USA
- Aspen Aguirre – Texas, USA
- Aura Aponte-Flores – Texas, USA
- Aurelija Dobravalskyte – Alberta, Canada
- Carolina Quintero-Carrillo – Nevada, USA
- Cheryl Derivi – Florida, USA
- Claire Pitts – Indiana, USA
- Dari Williams – Florida, USA
- Elizabeth Citalan – Florida, USA
- Erin Paschke – Oregon, USA
- Gwyneth Scallions – Missouri, USA
- Hirsch Hunty – North Carolina, USA
- Hope Jung – Wisconsin, USA
- Isabelle Calhoun – South Carolina, USA
- Jamie Wilson – Wyoming, USA
- Jane Tuttle – Idaho, USA
- Jennie Shaw – Ontario, Canada
- Jessica Vero – British Columbia, Canada
- Kelsey Mcquay – Florida, USA
- Kelsey Waldo – Saskatchewan, Canada
- Kristal Arevalo – Idaho, USA
- Lauren Mitchell – Florida, USA
- Mary Esparza – California, USA
- Melissa Whiffen – Newfoundland, Canada
- Michelle King – Nebraska, USA
- Michelle Soto – Florida, USA
- Monica Castro – California, USA
- Nancy Okon – Illinois, USA
- Ngoc (Lila) Nguyen – Missouri, USA
- Rebecca Compton – Virginia, USA
- Rebecca Mozzillo – Ohio, USA
- Rochelle Dingman – California, USA
- Sierra Pagan – Florida, USA
- Tatiana Savostikova – Florida, USA
- Tina Zavala – Kentucky, USA
- Yuliia Kovalchuk – New York, USA
- Zaira Vega – Mexico City, Mexico
Each challenge is set by a different sponsor of this season’s contest: CND, Light Elegance, Gelish, LeChat Nails, Glitterbels and 3EM.
Helena Biggs
Helena Biggs, editorial & partnerships director at Scratch magazine, comments: “North America’s Star Nail Artist represents an opportunity to celebrate the talent and creativity that define our industry, and the shortlisted professionals have already shown immense talent and imagination via their entries. We can’t wait to see the innovative designs and techniques that they will bring at each challenge stage.”
The competition invited nail professionals from the USA, Canada, Mexico and Greenland, regardless of their industry experience, to showcase their creativity and flair. They entered online with a video and images of their work, and entry closed August 31.
Follow the journey of our contestants by clicking here, or view their work on their own challenge pages by clicking their names above.
Whether contestants specialize in intricate hand-painted designs, avant-garde sculptures or dazzling embellishments, North America’s Star Nail Artist – Season 1 promises to offer a platform for their talents to shine.
Nailympia Vietnam 2024: THE RESULTS
The first iteration of Nailympia Competitions in Vietnam took place 10-11 April 2024, hosted by Damon Ho in Ho Chi Minh City and supported by Nailympia global director, Alex Fox.
THE RESULTS
GEL POLISH MANICURE
Division 1
- 3rd Mai Ngọc – Vietnam
- 2nd Lý Bích Châu – Vietnam
- 1st Lê Khánh – Vietnam
Division 2
- 3rd Le Anh – Vietnam
- 2nd Nguyen Ngoc Phuong – Vietnam
- 1st Nguyễn Hồng Ngọc – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Yuki Ide – Japan
- 2nd Genki Itou – Japan
- 1st Natalia Trefon – Poland
FANTASY COMPLETE LOOK
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyễn Thị Hồng Mai – Vietnam
- 2nd Nguyen Thi Quynh – Vietnam
- 1st Nhu Tay – Vietnam
SALON NAILS
Division 1
- 3rd Nguyễn Thị Thanh Tâm – Australia
- 2nd Trần Lê Trúc Giang – Vietnam
- 1st Le Vy – Australia
Division 2
- 3rd Nguyen Julie – Malaysia
- 2nd Pham Thi Nhan – Vietnam
- 1st Kawase Yumi – Japan
Division 3
- 3rd Genki Itou – Japan
- 2nd DOÃN VĂN HẬU – Australia
- 1st Natalia Trefon – Poland
THE JOY OF NAILS
Division 1
- 3rd Trần Lê Trúc Giang – Vietnam
- 2nd Mai Ngọc – Vietnam
- 1st Lê Bích Ngọc – Vietnam
Division 2
- 3rd Hoàng Thị Mai – Vietnam
- 2nd Đỗ Thị Bình Nhi – Vietnam
- 1st Le Thi thuy Tien – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Genki Itou – Japan
- 2nd Yen Ryall – Australia
- 1st Yuki Ide – Japan
MIXED MEDIA BOXED ART
Division 1
- 2nd Nguyen ( Tracy Vanilla ) Trang – Vietnam
- 1st TRƯƠNG THỊ KIM NHUNG – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Yuki Ide – Japan
- 2nd Yamamichi Kanade – Japan
- 1st Lê Thị Lan – Vietnam
FLAT ART DESIGN BOX
Division 1
- 3rd Phạm Thị Hồng Nhiên – Vietnam
- 2nd Tô Thị Thuỳ Trang – Vietnam
- 1st Nguyễn Thị Kim Tuyến – Vietnam
Division 2
- 3rd Nguyễn Lệ Mỹ Tiên – Vietnam
- 2nd Lại Quốc Tuấn – Vietnam
- 1st Cúc Nguyễn – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyen Amy – Malaysia
- 2nd Nguyễn Ngọc Nữ – Vietnam
- 1st Lê Đại Phát – Vietnam
TO STILETTO & BEYOND
Division 1
- 1st Mendez Ianni Daniela – Colombia
Division 2
- 3rd Pham Thi Thanh Huong – Vietnam
- 2nd Do Thi Binh Nhi – Vietnam
- 1st Nguyen Julie – Malaysia
Division 3
- 3rd Genki Itou – Japan
- 2nd Yuki Ide – Japan
- 1st Võ Quốc Vẹn – Vietnam
- EXTREME NAILS POSTER
Division 1
- 1st Katterine Anaya Arias – Vietnam
Division 2
- 1st Nguyễn Thị Hải – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyen Thi Quyynh – Vietnam
- 2nd Abbie Nguyen – Vietnam
- 1st Ryall Yen – Australia
DESIGN AN ALBUM COVER
Division 1
- 3rd Thi Ngoc Le – Vietnam
- 2nd Tô Thị Thuỳ Trang – Vietnam
- 1st Trần Huỳnh Hồng – Vietnam
Division 2
- 2nd Nguyễn Hải Uyên – Vietnam
- 1st Trang Sala – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Dinh Thi Mai – Vietnam
- 2nd Yamamichi Kanade – Japan
- 1st Võ Quốc Vẹn – Vietnam
FRENCH TIP & OVERLAY
Division 1
- 3rd Trần Lê Trúc Giang – Vietnam
- 2nd Le Vy – Australia
- 1st Nguyễn Thị Thanh Tâm – Australia
Division 2
- 3rd Nguyen Julie – Malaysia
- 2nd Nguyễn Hồng Ngọc – Vietnam
- 1st Phạm Thị Nhẫn – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyễn Tuấn Anh – Vietnam
- 2nd Genki Itou – Japan
- 1st Natalia Trefon – Poland
FRENCH SCULPTURE
Division 1
- 3rd Tran Thanh Thuy – Vietnam
- 2nd Le Vy – Australia
- 1st Nguyễn Thị Thanh Tâm – Australia
Division 2
- 3rd Nguyễn Hồng Ngọc – Vietnam
- 2nd Đỗ Thị Bình Nhi – Vietnam
- 1st Phạm Thị Nhẫn – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyễn Tuấn Anh – Vietnam
- 2nd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 1st Genki Itou – Japan
PERFECT MATCH
Division 1
- 2nd Le Vy – Australia
- 1st Nguyễn Thị Thanh Tâm – Australia
Division 2
- 3rd Nguyen Julie – Malaysia
- 2nd Nguyễn Hồng Ngọc – Vietnam
- 1st Phạm Thị Nhẫn – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyễn Tuấn Anh – Vietnam
- 2nd Lê Thái Sơn – Vietnam
- 1st Genki Itou – Japan
STILETTO NAILS
Division 1
- 1st Mendez Ianni Daniella – Colombia
Division 2
- 3rd Nguyen Julie – Malaysia
- 2nd Đỗ Thị Bình Nhi – Vietnam
- 1st Le Thi Thuy Tien – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyễn Tuấn Anh – Vietnam
- 2nd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 1st Genki Itou – Japan
ART WINNER OF WINNERS
Division 1 Mendez Ianni Daniella – Colombia
Division 2 Đỗ Thị Bình Nhi – Vietnam
Division 3 Yuki Ide – Japan
TOP VIETNAM TECH
Division 1
- 3rd Lê Bích Ngọc
- 2nd Nguyen ( Tracy Vanilla ) Trang
- 1st Trần Lê Trúc Giang
Division 2
- 3rd Đỗ Thị Bình Nhi
- 2nd Nguyễn Hồng Ngọc
- 1st Phạm Thị Nhẫn
Division 3
- 3rd Đinh Thị Mai
- 2nd Lê Thái Sơn
- 1st Nguyễn Tuấn Anh
TEAM TROPHY
Team Yinnie: Nguyen Julie, Ting Cherish, Nguyen Amy, Chang Andy, Lee Celine, JING WEI JOWIE LOI
WINNER OF WINNERS
- Division 1 – Le Vy – Australia
- Division 2 – Nguyen Julie – Malaysia
- Division 3 – Genki Itou – Japan
INDIVIDUAL TOP SCORER
Natalia Trefon – Poland (Div 3)
Nailympia Competitions is in association with Scratch magazine.
Entry is NOW OPEN for Nailympia London 2024!
Join us for the world’s biggest nail competition, celebrating 20 years this year at ExCel London on 13-14 October!
This competition blends a mix of online and arena categories, making it available to EVERYONE!
We have 19 fantastic categories (9 arena and 10 online) and 3 divisions – click here to enter today!
ARENA
Gel Polish
LED Hard Gel Tip & Overlay (traditional French)
L&P Acrylic Sculpture (traditional French)
Perfect Match
Joy of Nails
French Twist 3-Shape Challenge
Salon Nails
Stiletto Nails
Fantasy Complete Look
ONLINE
To Stiletto & Beyond
Extreme Nail Styling Poster
Mixed Media Boxed Art
Flat Art Boxed Art
Art on Nails
Design Nails for Album Cover
Poster Manicure
Poster Pedicure
Reality Nails
Runway Nails
You can see the themes for this years categories here.
Nailympia Germany 2024: THE RESULTS
The third iteration of Nailympia Germany took place at the Beauty Düsseldorf exhibition, 22-24 March.
The prestigious nail competition is powered by Scratch and the Germany edition is hosted by Stefanie Lo Re of Signature Nail International, supported by Nailympia global director, Alex Fox.
The 2024 contest welcomed 79 competitors from 24 countries, who took 413 competition seats across 19 categories; 11 live and eight online.
THE RESULTS
GEL POLISH MANICURE
Division 1
- 3rd Federica Lucifora – Italy
- 2nd Vanessa Maturo – Italy
- 1st Alina Ivakina – Germany
Division 2
- 3rd Carlotta Silveri – Italy
- 2nd Veronica Luviano – USA
- 1st Katharina Bienemann – Germany
Division 3
- 3rd Aleksanda Dworzynska – Poland
- 2nd Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
- 1st Natalia Gedik – Turkey
RUNWAY NAILS
Division 1
- 1st Thi Ngoc Le – Germany
Division 2
- 2nd Van Hau Doan – Germany
- 1st Susan Strijbosch – The Netherlands
Division 3
- 3rd Nicolas Paggi – Argentina
- 2nd Anita Chahal – UK
- 1st Johanna Stampka – Germany
SALON NAILS
Division 1
- 3rd Vanessa Maturo – Italy
- 2nd Federica Lucifora – Italy
- 1st Clara Zeta Spadaro – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Katharina Bienemann – Germany
- 2nd Melissa Monaco – Italy
- 1st Sara Di Luzio – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Francesca Paliotto – Italy
- 2nd Marta Deja – Poland
- 1st Natalia Trefon – Poland
REALITY NAIL ART
Division 1
- 3rd Desire Modica – Italy
- 2nd Evgenia Zarakovskaya – Belarus
- 1st Federica Lucifora – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Di Luzio – Italy
- 2nd Susan Strijbosch – The Netherlands
- 1st Sara Rossignoli – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Johanna Stampka – Germany
- 2nd Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
- 1st Francesca Paliotto – Italy
THE JOY OF NAILS
Division 1
- 3rd Ermelinda Mucaj – Italy
- 2nd Vanessa Maturo – Italy
- 1st Desire Modica – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Mirella Cost – The Netherlands
- 2nd Carlotta Silveri – Italy
- 1st Sara Di Luzio – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Nicolas Paggi – Argentina
- 2nd Francesca Paliotto – Italy
- 1st Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
MIXED MEDIA BOXED ART
Division 2
- 3rd Timea Anita Kovacs – Romania
- 2nd Van Hau Doan – Germany
- 1st Evelin Nagy – Hungary
Division 3
- 3rd Paulina Guadalupe – Mexico
- 2nd Nicolas Paggi – Argentina
- 1st Giulia Rebellato – Italy
FLAT ART DESIGN BOX
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Rossignoli – Italy
- 2nd Emma Brock – UK
- 1st Evelin Nagy – Hungary
Division 3
- 3rd Olivia Castillo – Philippines
- 2nd Julie Vorobeva – UAE
- 1st Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
INVENT A NAIL SHAPE
Division 2
- 2nd Lyubov Tudakova – Russia
- 1st Annamaria Mudure – Austria
Division 3
- 3rd Nicolas Paggi – Argentina
- 2nd Maria Sinyagina – Russia
- 1st Tatyana Texter – Germany
TO STILETTO & BEYOND
Division 1
- 3rd Thi Ngoc Le – Germany
- 2nd Jacqueline Kilian – Germany
- 1st Renata Nemethne Szabo – Hungary
Division 2
- 3rd Susan Strijbosch – The Netherlands
- 2nd Lyubov Tudakova – Russia
- 1st Annamaria Mudure – Austria
Division 3
- 3rd Nicolas Paggi – Argentina
- 2nd Maria Sinyagina – Russia
- 1st Tatyana Texter – Germany
FRENCH TWIST
Division 1
- 3rd Federica Lucifora – Italy
- 2nd Ermelinda Mucaj – Italy
- 1st Vanessa Maturo – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Carlotta Silveri – Italy
- 2nd Melissa Monaco – Italy
- 1st Mirella Cost – The Netherlands
Division 3
- 3rd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 2nd Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
- 1st Francesca Paliotto – Italy
MANICURE POSTER
Division 1
- 3rd Patrik Pataki – Hungary
- 2nd Erika Kornoczi – Austria
- 1st Edina Botos – Hungary
Division 2
- 3rd Eszter Magyar – Hungary
- 2nd Ildiko Jarfas – Hungary
- 1st Anna Darabos – Hungary
Division 3
- 3rd Johanna Stampka – Germany
- 1st Reka Olah – Hungary
EXTREME NAILS POSTER
Division 1
- 1st Marietta Darok – Hungary
Division 2
- 3rd Eszter Magyar – Hungary
- 2nd Evelin Nagy – Hungary
- 1st Naira Gilardini – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Angela Wilden – Luxembourg
- 2nd Maria Sinyagina – Russia
- 1st Loi Van Nguyen – UK
UV GEL TIP & OVERLAY
Division 1
- 3rd Clara Zeta Spadaro – Italy
- 2nd Vanessa Maturo – Italy
- 1st Natalya Rusch – Germany
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Rossignoli – Italy
- 2nd Melissa Monaco – Italy
- 1st Sara Di Luzio – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 2nd Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
- 1st Francesca Paliotto – Italy
UV GEL SCULPTURE
Division 1
- 3rd Federica Lucifora – Italy
- 2nd Chiara Panaia – Italy
- 1st Vanessa Maturo – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Carlotta Silveri – Italy
- 2nd Melissa Monaco – Italy
- 1st Sara Di Luzio – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Marta Deja – Poland
- 2nd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 1st Francesca Paliotto – Italy
UV GEL PERFECT MATCH
Division 1
- 3rd Clara Zeta Spadaro – Italy
- 2nd Natalya Rusch – Germany
- 1st Vanessa Maturo – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Rossignoli – Italy
- 2nd Sara Di Luzio – Italy
- 1st Melissa Monaco – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Flemming Nordqvist – Denmark
- 2nd Marta Deja – Poland
- 1st Francesca Paliotto – Italy
L&P TIP & OVERLAY
Division 1
- 3rd Desire Modica – Italy
- 2nd Clara Zeta Spadaro – Italy
- 1st Vanessa Maturo – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Carlotta Silveri – Italy
- 2nd Sara Di Luzio – Italy
- 1st Melissa Monaco – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 2nd Flemming Nordqvist – Denmark
- 1st Francesca Paliotto – Italy
L&P SCULPTURE
Division 1
- 3rd Ermelinda Mucaj – Italy
- 2nd Vanessa Maturo – Italy
- 1st Federica Lucifora – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Rossignoli – Italy
- 2nd Melissa Monaco – Italy
- 1st Sara Di Luzio – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 2nd Francesca Paliotto – Italy
- 1st Flemming Nordqvist – Denmark
L&P PERFECT MATCH
Division 1
- 3rd Chaira Panaia – Italy
- 2nd Ermelinda Mucaj – Italy
- 1st Vanessa Maturo – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Rossignoli – Italy
- 2nd Sara Di Luzio – Italy
- 1st Melissa Monaco – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
- Joint 2nd Flemming Nordqvist – Denmark & Francesca Paliotto – Italy
- 1st Marta Deja – Poland
STILETTO NAILS
Division 1
- 3rd Federica Lucifora – Italy
- 2nd Ermelinda Mucaj – Italy
- 1st Vanessa Maturo – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Rossignoli – Italy
- 2nd Sara Di Luzio – Italy
- 1st Carlotta Silveri – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Tatyana Texter – Germany
- 2nd Marta Deja – Poland
- 1st Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
ART WINNER OF WINNERS
- Division 1 Desire Modica – Italy
- Division 2 Van Hau Doan – Germany
- Division 3 Nicolas Paggi – Argentina
TOP GERMAN TECH
Division 1
- 2nd Natalya Rusch
- 1st Alina Ivakina
Division 2
- 3rd Claudia Carpine
- 2nd Katharina Bienemann
- 1st Van Hau Doan
Division 3
- 3rd Marta Kalamajka
- 2nd Michaela Saadeh
- 1st Johanna Stampka
TEAM TROPHY
TEAM ITALY – Division 3 – 2,878 points
Nicolas Paggi, Alessandra Pizzari, Francesca Paliotto, Valentina Federici & Monia Martellini
WINNER OF WINNERS
- Division 1 Vanessa Maturo – Italy
- Division 2 Mirella Cost – The Netherlands
- Division 3 Francesca Paliotto – Italy
INDIVIDUAL TOP SCORER
Alessandra Pizzari – Italy – 962 points
For more information about Nailympia Competitions, including upcoming dates and locations, visit www.nailympia.com
Nail Art Themes for Nailympia London 2024 released!
Nailympia London 2024 celebrates our 20th year, and we have both ONLINE categories and LIVE ARENA categories taking place! <
Entry is set to open next month (watch this space) but we like to give you a bit of insight into the art themes for this year.
ONLINE entries are submitted as photographs, video and some with text and they will be open for submission from May 2024.
The submission window for ALL ONLINE categories will close mid-August.
So what are you waiting for – now that you have the themes you can get designing and crafting your competition nails…
We can’t wait to see what you’ve got this year!
THE THEMES FOR ART CATEGORIES AT NAILYMPIA LONDON 2024
To Stiletto & Beyond: Botanical Gardens
Runway Nails: Industrial Revolution
Reality Nails (3 nails – 3 themes): Geometric Chic / Vintage Vibes / Gothic Grandeur
Flat Art Boxed: Sacred Symbols
Design Nails for an Album Cover: Electro Pop
Art On Nails: International Sporting Events
Extreme Nail Styling Poster: Open Theme
Poster Pedicure: Open Theme
Poster Manicure: Open Theme
Mixed Media: Open Theme
The third Nailympia Mexico Event is scheduled for 6-7 July 2024
The Nailympia team is thrilled to announce the upcoming third edition of Nailympia Mexico this July, where the vibrant world of nail art takes centre stage once more.
Hosted by nail expert, Dafne Fernandez, Nailympia Mexico is not just a competition, it’s a celebration of artistry, skill, innovation and passion. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the competition arena, this is your chance to shine and make your mark in the professional nail community.
“I’m really happy to see Mexico back on the Nailympia map for 2024,” enthuses Alex Fox. “The first two editions were vibrant, well attended harnessed a powerful positive buzz and feel that one would expect to experience in Mexico. Dafne is a superb host, whose passion and affection for Nailympia are clear in her unwavering dedication and attention to detail. I can’t wait to get back to this event and meet a whole new generation of nail pros who are bound to captivate and delight with their own flavour of creativity, skill and expression.
Pop the date in your diary and prepare to be inspired as you sit alongside nail artists from across Mexico and beyond to dazzle with your stunning creations. From intricate designs to bold statement pieces, every nail tells a story that’s waiting to be told.
Join us for the excitement and buzz of the arena, the camaraderie, networking and the thrill of competition. Meet fellow artists, learn from industry experts and elevate your skills to new heights.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of something truly special. Stay tuned for updates and registration details, and get ready to paint your world with the colours of your imagination at Nailympia Mexico 2024.
Nailympia to be hosted in Vietnam
Damon Ho, a nail artist & educator from Arizona, USA, is to host the inaugural Nailympia Vietnam competition in April 2024. This news follows his participation as a judge on the Nailympia panel in the USA in 2023, and his close observation of the second Nailympia Mexico. This addition to the Nailympia global family will be hosted at the Grand Palace in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, 10-11 April.
Keen to afford industry change and growth, and widen the Nailympia net, Damon cites: “Hosting Nailympia Vietnam is about bringing international standards to Vietnamese nail artistry; creating a bridge between Vietnam and the global beauty industry, while showcasing the immense talent in the region.”
A keen advocate of competitions, Damon believes that the Nailympia experience is transformative, as it fosters an inclusive and diverse culture while showcasing innovation and industry trends. “Nailympia is an exhilarating platform that stands for quality and excellence,” he concedes. “It’s a fair and impartial competition that celebrates creativity and skill in nail artistry.”
Considering a broader perspective, Damon harbours an expansive vision for the future, with Nailympia Vietnam as the fi rst step towards the bigger picture. “My primary goal is to elevate the global perception of Vietnamese nail artistry and create expansive opportunities for professionals in this fi eld,” he reveals. “I’m focused on building a global community in which skills and knowledge are shared, fostering growth and innovation in nail artistry.
“A key part of this vision is to integrate AI technology into the nail industry, enhancing both the artistic process and business side of operations. I’d also like to explore the idea of a TV show focused on the nail business. This show would not just illuminate the artistic side of nail artistry, but delve into effective business strategies for scaling and thriving in the industry. In essence, my aim is to transform the nail sector into a globally recognised and respected field, showcasing the talent and innovation that define Vietnamese nail artistry.”
MEET DAMON HO
Host of Nailympia Vietnam
10-11 April 2024, Ho Chi Minh City
@salon.ceo
When did you train as a manicurist & why?
I moved to the USA over 10 years ago, driven by the prospect of a better life and in pursuit of the American dream for myself and my family. Shortly after my arrival, I trained as a manicurist. Initially, it was a practical decision to earn a living, but I quickly developed a profound passion for the artistry and personal connections the role offers.
What is it about nails that interests you?
Nail artistry’s ability to uplift and transform fascinates me. The joy and satisfaction in clients’ eyes after a service are deeply fulfilling, and my love for artistry only grew as I realised the vast potential in nail design.
How did you build your reputation?
Persistence, dedication to quality and innovative techniques were key. Also, uplifting those around me and adhering to the philosophy of doing things right played a significant role in building my reputation.
What do you love about the nail industry?
The industry’s creativity, evolution and impact on both artists and clients. It’s a field that harmoniously blends aesthetics with emotional wellbeing.
What does your role involve?
My days are spent managing salons, hosting training sessions, strategising for growth, exploring new trends and seeking new knowledge.
What are your kitbag essentials?
While I have a variety of tools, my hands, my mind and my experience are the most crucial. I’ve trained myself to adapt to any challenge and use any tool effectively.
Who have you trained with over the years?
I’ve trained with a range of experts, both in the USA and globally, each enriching my skillset and broadening my perspective.
Who do you admire in the nail industry & why?
My admiration extends from successful CEOs to dedicated parents managing home businesses. It’s their innovation, passion and relentless pursuit of excellence that I admire.
What products do you use?
V Beauty Pure products are staple in my kit, but I use a variety of products to ensure the best outcomes. My partnership with V Beauty Pure is also driven by shared visions and goals with its CEO,
David Dilorenzo.
Why did you become a V Beauty Pure educator?
It was a step towards sharing my knowledge and helping others grow. My alignment with David Dilorenzo’s vision played a significant role in this decision.
What excites you about life in general?
Life excites me with its endless opportunities for growth, learning and positive impact on others.
What has been key to your success?
Dedication, continuous learning, adaptability and a drive for excellence have been the cornerstones of my success.
Where do you find inspiration for your nail art designs?
Inspiration is everywhere – in nature, fashion, art and everyday life experiences.
If not nails, what would you be doing?
Apart from the nail industry, I would most likely be involved in other entrepreneurial ventures in beauty and wellness. My tech holding company is nail techs and salon owners in scaling their businesses.
How are you embracing change in the nail industry?
I embrace change by constantly learning, updating my skills and staying ahead of trends and technologies.
What’s your career highlight?
Transforming my business from a single struggling salon into a thriving chain, and becoming a respected educator, stand out as career highlights.
If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
I would encourage more collaboration and less competition, fostering a community that thrives on shared success. Changing the pricing mindset to refl ect the true value of our artistry and skill is also vital.
What’s your advice for aspiring nail pros?
Never stop learning, be open to new ideas and take pride in your work. Remember, you’re not just a nail technician; you’re a therapist, artist and vital part of your clients’ lives.
Nailympia Orlando 2022: Meet the winners!
Nailympia Competitions returned to the Premiere Orlando show floor 5-6 June 2022, welcoming an incredible lineup of global judges and talented competitors across three divisions.
Check out the winners below…
GEL POLISH MANICURE
Division 1
3rd – Jacquelyn Williams – USA
2nd – Erica Werthing – USA
1st – Kseniia Avilla – Cuba
Division 2
2nd – Carrie Timmons – USA
Division 3
3rd – Eve Perez – Puerto Rico
2nd – Mino Vo – UK
1st – Anastasia Totty – USA
REALITY NAIL ART
Division 1
3rd – Ana Vega –
2nd – Allicia Stockwell – USA
1st – Odallays Parilla – Puerto Rico
Division 2
3rd – Leon Touch – Cambodia
2nd – Maria Cubano – USA
1st – Syreeta Aaron –
Division 3
3rd – Eve Perez – Puerto Rico
2nd – Anastasia Totty – USA
1st – Odette Guzman – Puerto Rico
RUNWAY NAILS
Division 1
3rd – Odallays Parilla – Puerto Rico
2nd – Jacqueline Elmore – USA
1st – Allicia Stockwell – USA
Division 2
3rd – Nicholene Hurst – USA
1st – Kierra White – US
Division 3
3rd – Odette Guzman – Puerto Rico
2nd – Mino Vo – UK
1st – Anastasia Totty – USA
MIXED MEDIA BOXED ART
Division 1
3rd – Jacquelyn Williams – USA
2nd – Buey Dia Cedillo – Mexico
1st – Astrid Baez – Puerto Rico
Division 2
2nd – Nicholene Hurst – USA
1st – Nicole Wallner – USA
Division 3
2nd – Anastasia Totty – USA
1st – Odette Guzman – Puerto Rico
INVENT A NAIL SHAPE
Division 1
3rd – Schaeffer Schoppaul –
2nd – Ana Vega –
1st – Jacquelyn Williams – USA
Division 2
3rd – Maria Cubano – USA
2nd – Kierra White – USA
Division 3
3rd – Laura Ledes – Mexico
2nd – Anastasia Totty – USA
1st – Mino Vo – UK
FANTASY NAILS
Division 1
1st – Allicia Stockwell – USA
3rd – Amira Allen – USA
ACRYLIC TIP & OVERLAY
Division 1
3rd – Jacquelyn Williams – USA
Division 3
3rd – Odette Guzman – Puerto Rico
2nd – Anastasia Totty – USA
1st – Mino Vo – UK
ACRYLIC SCULPTURE
Division 1
3rd – Jacquelyn Williams – USA
1st – Cheryl Derivi – USA
Division 2
2nd – Leon Touch – Cambodia
1st – Kleidys Gonzalez –
Division 3
3rd – Anastasia Totty – USA
2nd – Odette Guzman – Puerto Rico
1st – Mino Vo – UK
PERFECT MATCH
Division 1
2nd – Jacquelyn Williams – USA
Division 3
3rd – Odette Guzman – Puerto Rico
2nd – Anastasia Totty – USA
1st – Mino Vo – UK
THE JOY OF NAILS
Division 1
3rd – Cheryl Derivi – USA
2nd – Jasmine Pepe – USA
1st – Quy Vo – Vietnam
Division 2
3rd – Kierra White – USA
2nd – Kleidys Gonzalez
1st – Chelsea Vega – USA
Division 3
3rd – Odette Guzman – Puerto Rico
2nd – Anastasia Totty – USA
1st – Mino Vo – UK
STILETTO NAILS
Division 1
2nd – Jacquelyn Williams – USA
1st – Paula Colon – Puerto Rico
Division 2
2nd – Leon Touch – Cambodia
1st – Chelsea Vega – USA
Division 3
3rd – Eve Perez – Puerto Rico
2nd – Anastasia Totty – USA
1st – Mino Vo – UK
TOP USA TECH
Division 1 – Jacquelyn Williams
Division 2 – Chelsea Vega
Division 3 – Anastasia Totty – USA
ART WINNER OF WINNERS
Division 1 – Jacquelyn Williams – USA
Division 2 – Chelsea Vega – USA
Division 3 – Anastasia Totty – USA
WINNER OF WINNERS
Division 1 – Jacquelyn Williams – USA
Division 2 – Leon Touch – Cambodia
Division 3 – Mino Vo – UK
INDIVIDUAL TOP SCORER
Anastasia Totty – USA
Congratulations to all competitors and winners!
STOP PRESS – A NEW NAILYMPIA for 2019 – STOP PRESS
Nailympia Competitions is excited and thrilled to announce its new partnership with Premiere Orlando in 2019!
The Premiere Orlando show, an established, admired and exciting annual exhibition event, will be branding its 2019 nail competitions with Nailympia.
The show dates 1-3 June will host Nailympia Orlando on 2-3 June over 2 days.
“We are very excited to work alongside Nailympia & Scratch magazine this year for the nail competitions at Premiere Orlando. We are enthusiastic to offer this new and exciting opportunity to nail technicians from all over the United States and beyond.” Ed McNeill, Premiere Show Group vice-president
Nailympia Orlando will host 10 competitions in this first year including the three that accrue points towards the Nailympia Global Cup (Gel Tip & Overlay, L&P Sculpture & Stiletto nails).
For 2019 three locations will host Global Cup points, Tallinn in Estonia, Orlando in the USA and London, UK.
“The opportunity to work alongside the Premiere Orlando show to host Nailympia competitions is a truly exciting new dimension to the Nailympia brand. Known for its popularity within the professional nail community across the USA and further afield, at Nailympia we are sure this new partnership will help invigorate the nail industry and inspire many more to get involved and enjoy the many benefits of competing while also enjoying an all-encompassing exhibition and education experience.” Alex Fox, global director, Nailympia Competitions
Registration for Nailympia Orlando opens on 1st March
To register visit – www.premiereorlandoshow.biz
ABOUT US – Premiere Show Group
The Premiere Show Group is a trade show management company that organises exceptional events for the professional beauty industry; it currently produces Premiere Orlando, Premiere Philadelphia, Premiere Columbus and Premiere Birmingham all in the USA. Premiere Orlando, its largest event got its modest start in 1990 as a small 3-exhibitor show, fast forward to current day, it is the industry’s largest trade show with over 850 exhibitors across a 7.3-acre exhibition floor with more than 59,000 beauty professionals from all 50 states and over 44 countries in attendance in 2018. Premiere strives to provide beauty professionals (cosmetologists, nail techs, barbers, estheticians, professional make-up artists, massage therapists as well as salon and spa owners) with the education needed to succeed and currently offers over 650 classes at its event led by some of the industry’s most influential and legendary educators and manufacturers from across the globe.
ABOUT US – NAILYMPIA
Nailympia is considered one of the leading and most prestigious professional nail competitions in the world today. It prides itself on being a non-biased forum where products and brands have no bearing on the placing of a competitor. This competition brand is all about skill and creativity. All skill levels are catered for – the judging system, which has evolved over time, holds true to its original concept of all competitions are judged blind – the judge has no idea who’s work they are assessing and all divisions are judged together in the same manner. The judges have no idea which division or competitor they are assessing. This keeps the system fair and even. It also means a Division 1 competitor can win with a higher score than seen in the above divisions – again showcasing that the skills and creativity are assessed on their own merit.