NATASHA REHAN
Meet Sara Tomczyk, a trailblazer in nail artistry who has dedicated nearly a decade to educating and inspiring students at the Indigo Nails Training Center in Northern Ireland. With 30 prestigious awards and over 20,000 trained students, Sara’s expertise and creativity shine brightly in the nail styling industry.
Join us as Sara shares her incredible journey, challenges, and the innovative techniques that set her apart in the world of nail art.
● Do you remember your first experience with nail art? How did it impact your passion for the field?
I vividly remember my first experience with nail art during my initial training at Indigo headquarters. Watching a few strokes of polish transform nails ignited a spark in me. That moment of creation fueled my passion and set me on the path to becoming a professional nail artist. It made me realise the endless possibilities in nail art and the joy it brings to both the artist and the client.
● You’ve been sharing your philosophy of nail styling at the Training Center in Northern Ireland for nearly a decade. What motivated you to become an instructor?
Becoming an instructor was driven by my passion for nail art and a desire to share my knowledge and skills with others. I’ve always believed in the power of education and the impact it has on one’s career. Teaching at the Training Center in Northern Ireland allows me to inspire and mentor aspiring nail artists, helping them to develop their talents and confidence. Seeing my students grow and succeed is incredibly rewarding and motivates me to continue sharing my philosophy of nail styling.
● What challenges have you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?
Throughout my career, I’ve faced many challenges, like keeping up with trends and managing the business side of the training centre. One big challenge was balancing teaching with improving my own skills. To tackle this, I set aside specific hours every week for personal practice and development.
Building a client base and a solid reputation took perseverance and consistent high-quality work. I maintained a strong work ethic, kept learning, and sought advice from mentors and colleagues. Adaptability and resilience were key to overcoming these obstacles.
● Can you describe some of the unique techniques you teach at your training centre?
At my training centre, we offer a diverse range of courses to elevate nail artistry skills. Here are some highlights:
- Dual Forms Training: We teach the intricate art of dual forms, a revolutionary technique for creating flawless, sculpted nail extensions quickly and efficiently. The course covers application, shaping, and troubleshooting.
- Fantasy French: This course unleashes creativity by exploring innovative designs and unconventional colour combinations, pushing the boundaries of traditional French manicures.
- Shapes: Perfecting nail shapes is crucial. Our course offers in-depth instruction on creating various shapes, from classic almonds and stilettos to trendy coffins and ballerinas, focusing on precision techniques and customised lengths.
Our ultimate goal is to provide comprehensive, hands-on instruction to equip students with the skills and confidence to excel in the ever-evolving world of nail artistry.
● How do you stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in the nail styling industry?
As an educator, staying current with nail styling trends and techniques is crucial. I prioritise continuous learning by attending workshops, seminars, and industry conferences. I consistently focus on online research through professional forums, social media, and educational websites. Collaboration with other professionals helps me share insights and stay updated. Lastly, Hands-on practice and student feedback allow me to refine my teaching and provide the most relevant education. This proactive approach ensures my students are well-equipped to succeed in the ever-evolving nail styling industry.
● Winning 30 prestigious awards in nail styling is an incredible achievement. Can you tell us about a few that are particularly special to you and why?
Winning awards in Ireland and Dubai has been a remarkable highlight of my nail styling career. The recognition from my peers in Ireland is particularly special, as it’s where I began my journey and built my foundation. These awards symbolise my growth and contributions to the local nail community. Receiving awards in Dubai has been an incredible honour, showcasing my work on an international stage. Dubai’s vibrant beauty industry has allowed me to connect with artists worldwide, highlighting the universal appeal of my techniques. These awards mark significant milestones in my career, representing my decades of hard work and creativity. They inspire me to continue pushing the boundaries of nail styling and education, striving for excellence locally and internationally.
● What are your plans for your career and the Training Center?
My plan for my career and the Training Center involves expanding our reach and impact through the development of an online platform. This platform will serve as a hub for nail styling education, offering a wide range of courses and resources accessible to students worldwide.