A BEAUTY specialist based in Bournemouth has been crowned the UK’s number one Russian Lash Specialist of the Year.
Nicoleta Abiaboeru, founder of Lashes by Nico in Bournemouth, won first place at the 2026 Female Boss Awards, earning national recognition for her work in the beauty industry.
Nicoleta said: "If I’m being honest, when I first started doing lashes, I never imagined I’d turn it into my full-time career, let alone one day be recognised as the UK’s No. 1 Russian Lash Specialist.
"I started with absolutely no idea where this journey would take me.
"I’ve worked hard, made mistakes, learned, invested in myself and pushed myself to keep improving."
She began her lash career in 2022, practising on her mother and friends before building a client base through social media and working from home.
Her dedication led to the opening of her own studio at 319A Holdenhurst Road.
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Nicoleta added: "Winning 1st place means so much more than just receiving an award.
"I’m super proud to represent Bournemouth and to have achieved first place across the UK in my category.
"Knowing that I’ve brought this recognition back to the town where I’ve built my business makes it even more special.
"I’m incredibly grateful for how far I’ve come, and this motivates me to keep growing, learning and setting bigger goals."
She continues to expand her skills and is now offering one-to-one training for aspiring lash artists, aiming to support other women starting careers in beauty.
Nicoleta hopes her success will inspire other small business owners and aspiring beauty professionals in Bournemouth to believe in their own potential.
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