When Liudmyla “Mila” Nikohosian fled Ukraine after the war began, she left behind her home, her career in law, and the life she had worked so hard to build. But she carried one dream with her: to one day open a nail salon that would bring the artistry and care of Ukrainian beauty culture to her new home.
That dream became a reality in Clearwater, Florida, where Mila opened Nails by Mila — a Ukrainian-style salon offering manicures, pedicures, and soothing spa services that leave clients not only looking their best but feeling renewed.
The path wasn’t easy. Mila started from scratch, earning her cosmetology license, refining her skills in a local salon, and eventually launching her own business with support from the HIAS Economic Advancement Fund and the Gulf Coast JFCS Microenterprise Development Program. Even with setbacks and unexpected challenges, she’s built something far greater than a salon — it’s a space filled with warmth, community, and hope.
“My mission is to warm the heart of every customer by transforming their hands into an image of radiance and beauty,” Mila said.
In this video, Mila shares her journey from displacement to entrepreneurship and how her story can inspire others to go after their dreams
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