Caregiver to nail creator: how a London mum unexpectedly found belonging in the nail industry

A work accident, supportive family and love for nails transformed Josephine Mensurah’s life from rehabilitation support worker to nail artist & content creator.

The Nailympia London arena attracts all types of techs, from all over the globe. First-time competitor, Josephine Mensurah, took the bold move of jumping into the arena in 2024. Not one to take it slowly, she jumped head first into Acrylic Sculpture and took fourth place in Division 1.

“Before my brand, MamaDoesNailz, came to life, everyone knew me simply as Josephine – mum to three boys, now aged 29, 15 and 12, who have been my unwavering support from the very beginning,” explains the nail pro. “Their belief in me continues to help me grow.

“Before nails, I was a caregiver & rehabilitation support worker, helping people recover from trauma, accidents or life-altering events. I thought that was my calling for years and I loved it deeply.

“But in 2020, an accident at work changed everything. It left me unable to continue in my role and suddenly, at 44, I found myself lost, unsure about the future and battling depression.

“One day, my partner casually suggested I find a hobby on YouTube,” Josephine continues. “I wasn’t keen on turning something I loved into ‘work’, but I decided to explore it anyway. I thought about nails – not for me, but for my younger sister, who had been a nail biter her whole life and felt insecure in nail salons. I wanted to learn how to do her nails so she could finally feel confident and grow them out. To my surprise, it worked! For the first time in over 20 years, she had beautiful nails and that small success sparked something in me.”

A Bexy Glow L&P Acrylic set by Josephine, worn to the Scratch Stars Party 2024.

Josephine shares: “I started diving deeper into the nail world and discovered creators like Femi Beauty, who blew me away with her skills. I even had the honour of collaborating with her in memory of my angel baby and all angel babies. She helped introduce me to acrygel and dip powder, and soon I found myself buying kit after kit. By June 2021, I had launched my own YouTube channel. My first video was an hilarious mess: three hours long with terrible angles, but I was hooked.

“Fast forward to today, and I create nail content daily across multiple platforms. I’ve had amazing brand collaborations and became a brand ambassador for several companies, including Madam Glam, Exclusive Nail Couture, Bexy Glow, MelodySusie, Gelbox.uk and Glowtips. Recently, I was named Brand Ambassador of the Month of October for Madam Glam, showcasing its stunning Gel Potion collection.

Josephine with the Madam Glam Gel Potion collection, as the brand’s October 2024 BA of the month.

“A few years ago, I didn’t even think I was creative,” Josephine reveals. “I remember going live with one of my best friends, @ravensnailbar, and being so nervous when painting a chilli pepper. But now, nail art feels like second nature. I love experimenting with 3D designs, bling, glitter and layering techniques.

“This journey hasn’t just been about nails – it’s brought incredible people into my life. Living with chronic pain, I’ve connected with others in the nail community who share similar experiences.

“Together, we’ve built a space where we can ‘nail the pain’ and find joy in what we do. I even competed in Nailympia London 2024. Though I didn’t win, the experience was invaluable and I’m already looking forward to coming back stronger next year. I’m also excited to start offering nail services from my garden studio and making press-on nails for everyone, regardless of their budget. It feels good to give back.

“Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing about this journey,” Josephine concludes. “Every challenge, every step has led me here. I still get that giddy feeling every time I think about nails. I’m MamaDoesNailz, the pink-charmed sister, and I’m here to stay!”

Follow Josephine on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

Lead image shows a nail design by Josephine for a collaboration with Femi Beauty.