A Q&A With Aliyah Johnson

1.Tell us about yourself.

My name is Aliyah Johnson, AKA @arjenesiscreates. I’m 28 and a Nail Artist based in South East London. I have been working in the industry for a little over 5 years now. 

2.How did you get into the industry?

With the encouragement and guidance of my cousin Nichole Williams, who is also in the industry. I took the leap of faith in making nails a career instead of a hobby. Once I completed my nail courses, Nichole helped me to secure my first job at a House of Vans event.

3.What do you specialise in?

My love and passion for nails has always been nail art — the more intricate the better. I find I get lost in it and it’s so satisfying seeing everything come together.

4.What was your education journey into becoming a nail tech?

Initially I was self-taught, but once I made the decision to get into the nail industry, I took the necessary courses so I could get insured and have the appropriate qualifications for the services I carry out. 

5.Who’s your inspiration?

In life I would say my inspiration is my mum. She is such a hard worker and thrives in an industry where people have looked at her differently because of her race and physical abilities. She has always shone bright nonetheless, continuing to make a name for herself. She walks in confidence and is a very self-assured woman.

 In terms of the industry, I would say my inspiration today is not limited to one person. All the amazing techs that push the boundaries in creating nail art, not limiting themselves to the overdone trends, and coming up with new and innovative ways to stand out.   

6.Have you had to overcome any obstacles to get to where you are today?

Being in this industry has opened my eyes to the lack of equal opportunities. And where others have been propelled, it's meant that I’ve had to work harder to be recognised. But trusting in my own capabilities, I know obstacles will come but I just find new ways to combat them. 

7.What’s been your ‘pinch me’ moment?

I would say my ‘pinch me’ moment was meeting H.E.R. and being blessed with the opportunity to do her nails for her UK BRIT awards performance. She is such a lovely person and made me feel very welcome.

8.Favourite nail trend?

I’m not big on trends really as I find these can sometimes cloud my creativity, but I do love to incorporate negative space into nail art always as it creates a level of depth every time. 

9.What advice would you give someone starting out in the industry?

I would say ask questions and network as much as possible. It’s an industry where it is SO easy to sit and compare yourself to every single person on Instagram/TikTok, but everyone is on their own journey and took different times to get to where they are. And your journey is just as special and deserves its own lane, no comparisons. 

10.How would you like to see the industry change?

I would love to see more Black nail techs getting spotlighted and recognised in the industry. So many of us work so hard, but unfortunately are not afforded the same recognition, exposure, and opportunities to be a representative of brands. 

11.What have you learnt along the way that would be valuable to pass on?

Techniques are the key to achieving greatness in nail art. You can practice for years and years (like I have), but one change in your technique can be the difference between struggling and thriving in nail art.