Experience of the International Beauty Lashes Contest 2015

Growing up has always been a prerogative of mine and that is why I have never shied away from new experiences.

When Tatiana first proposed that I accompany her to Russia for a competition I couldn't due to work, but in August when she renewed the proposal I said "yes" immediately.

My growth path as a lashmaker in Italy has not been an easy road, firstly because it is not a profession recognized as independent from the aesthetic branch and secondly, given that training in Italy is free, I stumbled upon various fake courses that promised extensive knowledge but that in reality resulted in little. Instead, with Tatiana I found the professionalism I was looking for and this allowed me to improve in my work and it is precisely because of the esteem I have for her that I chose to go so far with her.

My training has grown in practice, in constant documentation, in courses,... but unfortunately, in our work "we are alone, us with our clients" and I felt the need to compare myself with other professionals. Thus the idea of ​​signing up for competitions was born.

After the first experience held in London in July 2015 with Lash Battle, it was followed by Chelyabinsk with Beauty Lashes 2015.

Long trip but exceptional company. Tatiana was not only a friend but an exceptional interpreter because unfortunately in the Russian world it is difficult to find someone who speaks English and my linguistic knowledge in the matter was zero.

In this experience I appreciated a culture so different from mine and I tried to capture the best of it, even though time was a tyrant.

For example, I appreciated the great seriousness in the organization of the event, the attention to detail, the great dedication of the organizers and judges,... and much more.

In Russia, as in other countries (especially in the East), aesthetics are very important and are manifested in the care of all the details of the body, including the eyelashes. The extension market is consolidated and developed and continues to evolve with new techniques, colors, materials; therefore, participating in an event of this type meant looking ahead several years compared to the level at which these techniques are managed in our country. I think it was an honor to meet some of the most important lasmakers of the moment, to be able to shake their hands and to appreciate their singular modesty despite the great success.

The world of lashmakers is made up of women and men who know how to combine technical knowledge with artistic talent; it is a magical mix that must exist for those who carry out this profession and like a seed it must be watered in order to grow.

Even though I took second place in the master category, Classic look, both in London and Chelyabinsk I think I am still at the beginning of my journey because I still have a lot to learn from myself, from my clients and especially from other professionals. During the competition I never felt any tension, mistakes or lack of sportsmanship; everyone was there for themselves, to play their cards and to give their best. The advantage of these competitions is that your work is evaluated by many judges and in many criteria and this allows you to understand your weak points and your strong points. I have never seen bad work because there are no bad work, there are right or wrong work and an immense range of possibilities to create the best work for every type of person and eye.

Upon my return to Italy I had the opportunity to reflect on the experience and with each passing day I try to put into practice the knowledge acquired.

If there are other opportunities abroad I will try to seize them because the resources used in one's own training are the best investments.

As for my professional experience I am satisfied, but even more for the friendship that is a value that these days is not easy to find. Thanks Taty, you know that I would have done this experience with you and with no other ;-)

- Amina Bodro, second place in classical application