Sandra Smith
Nail Teacher – Brisbane & Sunshine Coast Campuses
I have been a nail technician for 7.5 years, I started in the industry by creating my own nails at home and experimenting with different creative ideas. At the time I was working in an art, craft, and party store, as a department manager and area manager. Throughout the 12 years in the retail industry, I made several memorable moments, but my dearest and closest memory is the smiling glow on a client’s face, after receiving her balloon order.
I have always been creative in all forms of arts and crafts, I have been a balloon artist, florist, and graphic designer. So, it was only fitting for me to delve into the nail industry. I completed a certificate of attainment in nail technology, but I wanted more. I needed to know how to create a beautiful stiletto, knowing how to get the right liquid and powder ratio was not enough, I wanted to learn how to create 3D art and more.
Who would know that these 10 little canvases could open up, a completely new world, my passion for arts and crafts, together with being able to express myself through art grew beyond words.
During my time as a Nail technician, I have been inspired by the work of nail technicians and artists from Europe, I aspire to be like these inspiring men and women, and I have traveled to meet some of them, to train and learn new techniques.
My passion for the nail industry grows daily, I don’t think I could ever tire of it. I am always looking for the next technique to learn and continue to grow. I believe and stand by the idea of never stop learning.
My true passion in the industry is nail art, 3D art, fantasy work as well as extreme nail shapes, sculptures and creating an illusion with nail products, and pushing it beyond its limits.
I enjoy sharing my knowledge and feel that in a classroom my energy and passion for the industry is infectious, giving students the courage to also believe in themselves, to create beautiful work. I wish to show students, how they can think outside the box and break boundaries. The art of creating flawless nails does not just stop at salon work it is way bigger. Inspiring students to see that it’s ok to feel good about that warm fussy feeling when the vision in their mind’s eye will come to life. Seeing each student evolve and grow is my biggest win.
I have entered several competitions, in Australia and Overseas. In 2017 I won the overall Champion for INJA competition held in Melbourne, followed by other 1st, 2nd and 3rd place wins in 2018 and 2019 in Australia, in 2019 I won the Overall Champion Emendee trophy and made my mark with my fantasy piece. Now in 2021, I achieved a 1st place win in the NZ nail competition and two 1st place wins in Antalya (Turkey) World Cup Nail Championship.
I am now a qualified trainer and assessor, as well as Ace educator for Akzentz nail products, I own my own successful nail salon in Grange, Brisbane. I believe the key to success is to plan to succeed by staying focused, practicing, and believing in yourself while staying humble and unique. Most of all don’t be afraid to follow the dream.