Sophia has set the standard with two Danish championship titles and a gold medal for the journeyman test.

From apprenticeship to championships: A story of dedication and professionalism

February 7, 2025 was a milestone in Sophia Munk Nielsen's career. She completed her education as a beautician – not just with a diploma, but as a double Danish Skills Champion and gold medalist at the journeyman's exam.

Her achievements have not only made her one of Denmark's most talented beauticians – they have also left a lasting mark on the industry. Sine Munk, owner of Beauty by Munk and Sophia's master, has no doubt about her talent:

"Sophia is something special. She is not just talented – she is driven, ambitious and has a unique will to develop. It has been a pleasure to follow her journey and I know her future will be extraordinary."

An application that changed everything

Becoming a beautician wasn't a childhood dream for Sophia – in fact, it wasn't even the plan. But she applied for an apprenticeship at Beauty by Munk – and that changed everything.

"If Beauty by Munk hadn't taken my somewhat naive application seriously, I probably wouldn't be a beautician today. But I'm so glad they did – because I've found my calling."

And her master knew right away that Sophia had something special:

"I could tell from the start – she had a flair for the subject. She wanted to learn everything, and she wanted to learn it quickly! She was self-driven and knew what it would take to become skilled."

Techcollege: The foundation for professional success

Sophia's impressive journey began at Techcollege, where she took her first steps towards her career as a beautician in August 2022. This is where the foundation stone for her professional development was laid, and it was precisely this knowledge that gave her the best conditions to perform at the highest level – both during her apprenticeship and at competitions.

"Techcollege has given me a strong foundation and a broad understanding of the cosmetology profession. The teachers have been truly skilled and committed, and I have learned everything from treatment techniques to chemical processes, nutrition and the connection of the entire body. It has given me important professional ballast that I have used every single day," says Sophia.

The passion and commitment of the teachers has played a crucial role for her:

"The team behind the cosmetology program at Techcollege deserves recognition for their great commitment and for doing their best for each and every student every day. Even though it's their job, they should be praised for the great and good work they do."

When talent and ambition meet

Sophia has never been the type to settle for “good enough.” From day one, she has had an inner fire that has driven her forward.

"I love seeing a process completed to perfection. I want to be the best at what I do – and it doesn't stop there."

At Beauty by Munk, her talent was quickly refined. She was given responsibility early on, was challenged professionally, and her master gave her the right framework to improve her skills.

"I always tell my girls that I'm there for them 100%. If they want to delve into something, they have my full support. I make demands, but I also show them that I believe in them. Sophia took all of that on board – and that's why she's come this far."

Double DM winner: "Skills gave me a stronger backbone"

Winning the Danish Skills Championship once requires talent. Doing it two years in a row requires something very special – and Sophia has it in her.

"Skills was an experience that changed me. I'm a hugely competitive person, and here I could really show off my craft. Winning twice was crazy – especially because the pressure of expectation was even greater the second time."

Her master knew that Sophia was something special already after her first victory:

"When she won Skills the first time after only six months of apprenticeship, I knew she would become something big. And I was right!"

Perfection for the journeyman exam: Gold medal in the house!

The Danish championship victories were impressive, but Sophia topped it all when she completed her education with a gold medal for the journeyman exam.

"My apprenticeship was a big test, but I felt ready. I had to do a customized treatment, then lashes, brows and bridal makeup on time. I went all in – and it paid off!"

Receiving a gold medal for the journeyman exam is one of the highest honors in the profession – and for Sophia, it is the culmination of her focused efforts.

"It's proof that all the hard work has been worth it. I've fought for this – and it feels amazing to be standing with the highest recognition in my hand."

A master and an apprentice who have created something truly unique

Sophia has not only left her mark on the Skills scene – she has also been an invaluable part of Beauty by Munk.

"It has been a gift to have her as a student. She has pushed us all to think bigger and do more. We have been a strong team, and I have loved following her development," says Sine Munk.

But saying goodbye won't be easy

"I'm so proud of her, but I'm also going to miss her terribly. We have a very special bond, and I know she can go exactly as far as she wants."

The future awaits – and Sophia won't stop here

For Sophia, this is not the end – but the beginning.

"I have some exciting plans – first an adventure awaits in the capital, but that's just the beginning!"

And her master has no doubt that Sophia has the potential to reach the very top:

"I definitely see Sophia as independent. She knows what it takes, and she has the will. She can become one of the greats in the industry – if that's what she wants!"

Sophia's best advice: Go for it!

For those considering the cosmetology profession, Sophia has clear advice:

"Be curious and passionate. Soak up all the knowledge, practice as much as possible, and don't be afraid to challenge yourself. If you are passionate about your profession, then throw yourself into Skills – it could change your life!"

And to future apprentices, her master says:

"Set demands on yourself and your master – that's how you become skilled!"

For Sophia, the journey has been filled with learning, victories and great experiences – but one thing is certain:

She's only just starting.

Fact box: Sophia's greatest achievements

🏆 Danish Skills Championship winner 2023 & 2024

🏅 Gold medal for the journeyman exam

💆‍♀️ Graduated cosmetologist February 2025

💼 Apprenticeship at Beauty by Munk in Skagen