Meet LIUDMYLA NIKOHOSIAN

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to LIUDMYLA NIKOHOSIAN. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

LIUDMYLA, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?

When I moved to the United States, I didn’t know what I wanted to do or which direction my life should take. But at one point everything changed — I realized that I wanted to be part of the beauty industry. At first, it was intimidating: my European approach to nails and pedicure was not well known here, and I had to prove myself in a completely new market. I also understood that without constant improvement I would never stand out, so my passion quickly turned into daily discipline — I spent several hours every day practicing, studying new materials and techniques, and perfecting every detail of my work. Instead of seeing this as a weakness, I transformed it into my strength. I introduced clients to a high-quality, detailed technique they had never experienced before, and it quickly became my signature.

I also discovered that being different means being memorable. I built my salon “Nails by Mila,” not just as a workplace but as a brand that reflects European precision, artistry, and care. My story and unique background attracted media attention, and I was invited to share my journey in local magazines. Over time, being “the only one in the room” gave me resilience, courage, and the ability to lead by example.

And one more lesson I’ve learned along the way: you can read countless books about how to become successful, but in the end, it all comes down to one principle — action. Always choose to act, because action is the true key to success.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

Many readers already know me and my story. I have often shared how, from being a lawyer in Ukraine, I went through the challenging journey of relocation and adaptation in the United States, starting over as a nail and pedicure artist. It was not an easy path, but it gave me strength and confidence.

Today, I am reaching a new level: people are interested in meeting me personally, and many clients travel from Tampa to my salon in Seminole. I am proud of the work I have done and of creating a space where every client receives attention, care, and high-quality service. My dream is to continue bringing joy to my clients at my salon, doing the work I love and creating beauty.

At the moment, I am also developing my own signature spa pedicure procedure, which is currently being documented and written into a professional manual. In Eastern Europe, pedicures are most often performed using the dry “hardware pedicure” technique, which focuses on precision nail work and the removal of callused skin. I decided to take this detailed Eastern European approach and combine it with spa elements that elevate the entire experience. My method incorporates exfoliating scrubs, nourishing masks, creams, and hot towels — a ritual that feels both luxurious and restorative. This blend is still considered innovative for traditional European pedicure standards, and it will soon become part of a step-by-step guide for professionals.

In addition, I am expanding my brand MILA NOVA. We are currently in the process of exploring formulas and preparing agreements for the future production of professional foot care products — nourishing creams and care masks. At this stage, everything is still in development, including searching for the right product line name and designing its logo. This project represents my next step: to give both clients and professionals access to high-quality, effective products that will set a new standard of excellence in the beauty industry.

What inspires me most is how the passion I once dedicated several hours to every single day, practicing and improving my skills, has grown into a recognized brand with loyal clients, media attention, and future plans for new directions. For me, NAILS BY MILA is not just about beauty — it is about innovation, resilience, and passion that can inspire others.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, I believe the three most important qualities that shaped my journey were discipline, creativity, and resilience.

Discipline allowed me to dedicate several hours every single day to practicing and perfecting my skills. Without consistency, I would not have been able to grow into the professional I am today. Creativity gave me the courage to innovate — to combine the detailed Eastern European pedicure technique with spa elements and to begin developing my own product line. Resilience helped me adapt to a new country and turn challenges into opportunities.

When I first opened my salon, there were days when I had no clients and not even a single phone call. I felt desperate and questioned if this was truly for me. But I kept working, learning, and believing. Today, my schedule is booked weeks in advance, and we are already planning to expand.

Here is the advice I can give: time is one of the most valuable resources. You must understand that by taking small steps every single day, after a week, a month, or a year, you will see results. Sometimes you may face only difficulties and begin to think, “This is not for me,” or lose faith in yourself. But that is a mistake. Just don’t give up — and in time, you will see that every effort was worth it.

All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?

The number one challenge I am currently facing is building the right team. I have always done my work at the highest level, and I believe every client deserves the best care and attention. The biggest difficulty as a business owner is finding people who love their work as much as I do and who truly value every client.

For me, this is not just about hiring — it is a responsibility. I try to be a loyal and supportive leader, giving everyone a fair chance, and then time shows how things will develop. Building a strong team that shares my passion and values is both the biggest challenge and the most important goal for the future of my business.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Photos by Liudmyla Nikohosian

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