The national team achieved a historic milestone by winning its first gold trophy at the prestigious OMC Hairworld World Championship for hairdressers and beauticians. Director of Eva Salon and founder of the Elen Beauty Academy B.Enkhtsetseg showcased her exceptional artistry by competing in four categories and contributing to the team’s success. In addition to this remarkable achievement, B.Enkhtsetseg won bronze medals in both the Bridal and Creative Makeup categories, demonstrating her talent and versatility on a global platform. She also clinched first place in the Creative Lash category, held online, solidifying her position as a leader in the beauty industry and setting a new standard for excellence. 

Congratulations on your successful participation in the World Championship of Hairdressers and Beauticians! How does it feel to have the Mongolian national team win the gold trophy, marking the beginning of international recognition for your skills?

This year, the Mongolian team excelled across all categories in the male and female hairdressing and beauty competitions at the World Championship. The team not only brought home the prestigious championship gold trophy but also achieved outstanding results across various events: one additional gold, four silver and three bronze medals, along with six special recognitions and two honorary medals. 

Given that experts from our country have participated in the competition multiple times before, they must have accumulated significant experience. This year, how did the national team assess their strengths and prepare for the competition in Paris?

Our strength lies in the exceptional unity and skill of our team. The primary objective of competing in Paris, France, was clear: to bring home a gold trophy for Mongolia. Achieving this goal brought immense pride and joy to everyone involved, validating the dedication and hard work invested by each team member. 

You competed in four categories and secured prized placements. Was it challenging to prepare for the competition while also managing and growing your business?

Amid an intense period of business expansion and a growing family, the demands were significant, and there were moments of discouragement. During this time, my friend B.Enkhchimeg, founder of Eegii cosmetics, became a source of invaluable strength and support. Reflecting on my first participation in the World Championship back in 2019, it feels like only yesterday. Since then, Mongolian artists have steadily gained visibility at this prestigious competition.

The journey took a pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, which prevented us from competing in person, but this year, our team of 27 proudly traveled to Paris. For the first time, Mongolian artists not only earned distinguished placements but also claimed the world cup, bringing Mongolia’s name to the international stage - a truly exhilarating achievement. Competing online also offers immense opportunities for artists to showcase their full range of skills and creativity. In recent years, Mongolian participants have successfully represented the country through online events, cementing their reputation globally. 

What were the defining characteristics of the genres you participated in? Since some competitions were held online, how did that format allow you to showcase your unique features and advantages more effectively?

This year, I aimed to push my creativity further than ever before. One standout piece was the wedding dress, adorned with 353 meticulously crafted butterflies embedded in the veil. Collaborating closely with colleagues and friends made this project even more meaningful. In the Creative Makeup category, I designed a large flower petal that flowed seamlessly from the dress to complement the eye makeup, creating a harmonious and cohesive look. Every element was crafted with sincerity and passion, reflecting my dedication to artistry. 

What criteria do the competition judges establish for participants in the event?

In this competition, there are no fixed criteria for participants, but the guidelines are outlined in detail within the competition rules. I pay close attention to these provisions, ensuring that my work aligns with the standards and expectations set by the organizers. 

What are the stages of the World Championship of Hairdressers and Beauticians? With beauty professionals from many countries gathered under one roof, how fierce was the competition?

With over 3,000 participants from 50 countries, the competition showcased the incredible talent and diversity of artists worldwide. Each countryпs representatives demonstrated their unique strengths, highlighting their national characteristics while embracing modern trends. The 35 minutes on stage provided a fantastic opportunity for each participant to showcase their skills and express their identity. It was fascinating to see how artists interpreted the competition themes from different angles, bringing their cultural influences into play. This blend of tradition and contemporary style enriched the event, making it a vibrant celebration of global artistry.

Your husband was in charge of the model shoot. Did working with someone who understands you well contribute to the success of your collaboration?

My husband, a professional photographer, has been a tremendous support throughout this journey. His easy going nature makes collaboration seamless, and since 2020, he has handled all the photography for the online competitions. His ability to capture the essence of each moment has been invaluable, allowing us to showcase our work and achievements beautifully. 

Eva Salon regularly conducts training sessions for girls and women on proper makeup application. What are the most common mistakes women make when applying their makeup?

Based on my years of experience, one of the most crucial aspects of makeup application is absorption. Many women overlook their bone structure, which can lead to common mistakes. This is especially evident among participants in our training sessions. We place a strong emphasis on teaching this fundamental principle, helping our students understand how to enhance their features effectively.  

There are always opportunities for aspiring artists, and those who pursue their passion rarely regret it. When you truly love what you do, it brings fulfillment and joy. The key is persistence; once you commit to learning and improving, success will follow. We encourage all our students to stay dedicated and embrace the journey ahead.

From your social media, it seems you’re a travel enthusiast and also dedicate time to exercise. How do these passions influence your work in the beauty industry?

I believe that life is a journey of growth and self-discovery. To truly develop and recognize one’s value, exploring opportunities abroad can provide invaluable perspectives. From a young age, I have had a passion for exercise, engaging in activities like aerobics and stretching. I wholeheartedly agree that exercise builds endurance and resilience. Moreover, one of the key indicators of inner beauty is health, making it an essential aspect of life. Prioritizing physical well-being not only enhances our appearance but also fosters a sense of confidence and vitality. Embracing a healthy lifestyle is crucial for achieving balance and fulfillment in all areas of life.

Was it your dream to own a beauty salon? What inspired you to choose this field?

Growing up with my mother and brother, I was profoundly influenced by my mother’s talents and creativity, which steered me toward cosmetology. A finance professional, she showcased her skills through sewing trendy clothes and baking beautiful pastries, instilling a sense of artistry in me. I fondly remember how she crafted outfits from newspapers for my school fashion show, which earned me a gold medal - an experience that truly highlighted her resourcefulness.

My love for art blossomed in childhood, but it was during my maternity leave after my first child that I found clarity. Although I worked as an accountant, I aspired to manage my own business one day. I reflected on how I could bring joy to women, which led me to pursue makeup artistry. In 2013, when my husband was working on a music video for singer Bichuu and needed a makeup artist, I seized the opportunity. The positive feedback I received from those I worked with encouraged me to delve deeper into this field, ultimately igniting my passion for beauty and creativity.

I am actually an accountant, having studied accounting and English translation at Mandakh University, where I graduated from in 2012. However, in 2013, my passion for makeup began to flourish, and I launched my career at 2B Entertainment, a company founded by my husband. His unwavering support played a crucial role in my journey as a makeup artist. 2B Entertainment, which has been operating since 2005, specializes in producing music videos, advertisements and photography. In 2014, I took a significant step by establishing my own makeup studio, Diva Professional Beauty Academy, starting in a room adjacent to my husband’s entertainment office. This venture has continued to thrive, and I cherish that time as one of the most valuable and fulfilling periods of my life. In 2015, I expanded my skills by studying makeup in the USA, and in 2017, I specialized in eyebrow tattooing at Korea Broadcasting Art School. These experiences have enriched my expertise and deepened my commitment to the beauty industry.