Northamptonshire nail artist, Monika Ferreira, wins prestigious Scratch Stars Award 2026
Nail professional, Monika Ferreira, has been crowned Scratch Stars Polish & Paint Nail Artist of the Year 2026, receiving the UK&I nail industry accolade at a glittering awards ceremony at The Underglobe, London on Sunday 5 July 2026.
Organised by Scratch magazine – the media resource for nail professionals, the Scratch Stars Awards celebrates outstanding talent in the UK & Ireland’s professional nail sector. The awards recognise outstanding talent, creativity, customer service, education and business excellence across 19 categories. Winning a Scratch Stars Award is regarded as one of the industry's most respected achievements, with finalists undergoing a rigorous judging process involving industry experts.
The judging process for this category involved a practical nail task, which was completed at a live competition day in May, as well as interview and assessment of social media, business prowess and customer care.
The awards party was hosted by JLS star, Aston Merrygold, and Scratch magazine’s Helena Biggs, and featured a live performance from Big Brovaz and Booty Luv. The Scratch Stars Polish & Paint Nail Artist of the Year category was sponsored by Andreia Professional, and the company’s trade marketing manager, Isabella Momesso, presented Monika with the award.
On receiving the award, Monika comments: "Receiving this award was such an incredible moment.
"I nearly didn't enter, because I doubted myself. I'm so grateful I did. This award is a reminder to believe in yourself, take the chance, and never let self-doubt hold you back.
"Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way."
The Scratch Stars Awards, now in its 14th year, are benchmark for excellence in the professional nail industry, with hundreds of entries submitted annually from leading salons, educators, nail technicians and brands across the UK and Ireland.
Commenting on this year’s winners, Helena Biggs – Scratch editorial & partnerships director and organiser of the awards, comments: "Every Scratch Stars Awards finalist demonstrates an exceptional commitment to excellence. Winning an award is a remarkable achievement and reflects the passion, professionalism and dedication that continue to drive the nail sector forward and elevate its standards. Monika wowed with her nail artistry, knowledge and client care, and we are delighted to recognise her well-deserved success."