Yulia Lutsenko’s story is a powerful example of how passion, perseverance, and love for one’s craft can not only change the course of a life—but elevate it to international success.
Her journey began in 2016 with the simple purchase of a manicure kit. That modest decision became a turning point for a young woman from Mykolaiv, Ukraine. From the very start, she had unwavering support from her husband, whose belief in her talent gave her the strength to keep moving forward through every challenge.
Yulia’s first professional steps were guided by a talented mentor, Anastasia Novikova, who laid the foundation for her skills and sparked a thirst for constant growth. Since then, seminars, exhibitions, and networking with fellow professionals have been essential to her development as a world-class nail artist.
Yulia also holds a degree in decorative and applied arts, which gave her an eye for color, shape, and composition—skills that now define her signature style. Her artistic background continues to play a crucial role in the originality and beauty of her work.
Her achievements speak for themselves. In 2016–2017, still competing as a junior, she earned her first international victories. Since 2018, as a certified master, she has taken home top prizes from prestigious championships across Turkey, Europe, and the United States.
Some of her standout accomplishments include:
– Two first-place awards in the “Creative Sculpting” category at a major championship in Antalya (2018);
– Multiple wins at the “Empire of Beauty” championships in Poland, Germany, and the U.S. (2023–2025);
– Top placements in Insta Nails, Modeling – 4 Shapes, and Hands & Feet at the XXXVIII International “Empire of Beauty” Championship in Washington, D.C.;
– Appointment as Assistant Judge with the Union of Beauty Industry Professionals of Ukraine (since 2023), a recognition of her expertise and industry respect.
Everything changed in 2022, when the war in Ukraine forced Yulia and her family to flee their home and seek safety abroad. The move to a new country was difficult, but it didn’t break her spirit—it became a catalyst for new growth.
Today, Yulia lives and works in Orlando, Florida, continuing to do what she loves: bringing beauty, joy, and confidence to her clients. Women from all over the world seek out her services, and her elegant, flawlessly executed work consistently earns admiration. And speaking not just as a journalist but as one of her clients—this level of quality and beauty is incredibly rare to find in the U.S. You can see for yourself on her Instagram: @julia_nails_florida.
Yulia firmly believes that the greatest asset anyone can carry with them across borders is knowledge and experience. “Don’t be afraid to start over,” she says. “Every step taken with love and self-belief brings you closer to your dream. I continue to learn, grow, and improve – so I can give my clients the very best, every single day.”
By Iryna Nasekailo
Photos courtesy of Yulia Lutsenko
