Power to the Professional
Article by Alex Fox | Published in 2024
For those in the nail industry that are still not sure if competing brings added content to a nail business, then listen to the 2023 story of one nail professional who has taken competing to a serious level and reaped the rewards. By investing time in travel and practice, effort and money, Katarzyna Kruszynska embraced the Nailympia 2023 circuit and followed it around the world. Here’s what happened… In the competitive realm of nail styling, Katarzyna (Kate) Kruszynska has attained the prestigious title of ‘Irish National Nail Champion,’ marking her as a multiple award-winner in nail styling championships across the globe. In the past year (2023), Kate showcased her skills internationally, representing Ireland in the UK, Mexico, Germany, USA (Orlando, Texas, and Ohio), clinching a remarkable total of 40 medals and trophies. Reflecting on her recent achievements, Kate shares, “Last year, I was honored to secure the Nailympia Americas Cup, The Nailympia Premiere Cup, Nailympia Art winner of winners, and Individual Top Scorer awards. Additionally, my business success was acknowledged with the ‘Best Established Business’ award from the Local Enterprise Office in 2019.”
Originally from Poland, Katarzyna Kruszynska initially served as a police officer in the Traffic Accident Department before following her passion and relocating to Ireland. In 2010, she transitioned to a full-time career in nails, starting from a humble nail table in her kitchen, overcoming self-doubt and tears and giving it her best shot. With the unwavering support of her family and friends, Kate not only persevered but also established a successful nail bar in 2015. Kate proudly manages Beauty Vision Ltd, an accredited training center, and is the visionary behind the Kohana Professional nail brand. The name ‘Kohana’ has profound personal significance, drawing inspiration from the Japanese term meaning ‘little flower’ and the notion of ‘ohana’, meaning ‘family’ from Disney’s Lilo & Stitch. The name uniquely combines ‘K’ for Kate and ‘Ohana’ for family, encapsulating the ethos that everyone is a part of Kate’s extended family. Explaining the Polish connection, Kate shares, “In Polish, ‘Kohana’ means ‘loved one,’ perfectly aligning with my brand’s ethos, where every individual is considered loved and part of the family.”
Beyond her business acumen, Kate is a devoted wife and mother to three children, an avid animal lover with two dogs and a cat at home. She has a passion for travel, diverse culinary experiences, and a commitment to a fit and healthy lifestyle. Kate actively shares her expertise and creative work on social media, amassing over 60,000 followers in three years. Her content revolves around nails, nail art, beauty, and insights into her business. “Sharing my creativity with a global audience is an amazing feeling,” expresses Kate, who also enjoys connecting with fellow nail enthusiasts through social media. She takes pride in Kohana being a welcoming space for individuals to learn new skills in a positive atmosphere. Expressing gratitude for the enriching journey her business has provided, Kate acknowledges, “Not everyone can say they love their job, but I’m one of the lucky few who can!” @beautyvision_ireland
