#HerWorldHerStory: Eugenia Ye-Yeo, an entrepreneur who found her niche with fuss-free beauty products

They may come from different industries and diverse backgrounds, but the eight mentors with Her World’s inaugural Mentorship Programme have plenty in common: For one, they are keen to lend their insights and advice from their own journeys.

Many of them have also had non-linear career paths, sometimes taking leaps of faith to land their biggest breakthroughs. Others have struggled with being the only woman in the room, or juggling the realities of being a mother, wife, and daughter. We hear from our mentors directly, and learn how the power of mentorship has helped in their own careers.

Eugenia Ye-Yeo, Founder of Nodspark

When Eugenia first launched Nodspark, a beauty brand that designs and sells nail wraps, she wanted to offer an easy solution for time-strapped women.

The concept of the nail wraps are simple: They are a breeze to apply, require no drying time, and can last for a week – allowing those who are constantly on-the-go to look effortlessly put together in a short amount of time.

While Nodspark has carved out its own fun and fuss-free niche in the local beauty scene, its early days were incredibly challenging as nail wraps were a fairly foreign concept in the market at that point in time. “I felt like I was groping in the dark with a lot of uncertainty, which translated to insecurity and self-doubt. It took me a good six to eight months to see any noteworthy sales being made,” the entrepreneur shares.

Today, Nodspark is highly successful, as reflected in its large fan base and collaborations with global brands such as Disney, Bvlgari and Obey. Nodspark has also expanded and launched other beauty products, such as magnetic lashes.

One of the biggest lessons that Eugenia has learnt through her entrepreneurial journey? “Speak to a variety of people, for you never know what doors might open for you when you knock.”

What do you hope to achieve as a mentor?

I believe wholeheartedly in the power of mentorship. I’m positive that growth lies ahead, especially with like-minded people coming together to strengthen each other.

How has your journey as an entrepreneur been?

Getting to this point was a real hustle, but through my journey, I learnt the importance of building your own organic community, networking, staying open to ideas, and supporting others – just like how I was supported by friends when I first started out. There’s longevity in that, and it’s very rewarding in many ways.

Should one choose a career for money or passion?

I believe they co-exist. Money and passion don’t have to be mutually exclusive. It’s the best of both words when you are passionate about what you do, and it brings in the dough as well.

What’s your biggest career regret?

There was a time in the past when I was too accommodating with suppliers overseas, because of my lack of experience and knowledge of the subject matter. I’ve since learnt that you need to be clear, strict and precise about your demands, to not to mince your words as you go along, and also to ask the right questions. This comes with experience, of course.

I fully embrace my past mistakes. Without them, there’s no song to sing.

Do you have any tips for our mentees?

Hold yourself in high regard as to how you go about your business, be it on the personal or professional level. Be proud of what you are, who you are, and what you bring to the table.

About the Her World Mentorship Programme

Whether you’re just starting out or at a crossroads in your career, Her World’s Mentorship Programme connects mentees with influential women who are leaders in their respective fields. Besides professional development, one stands to build valuable connections as well as gain professional insight and female support from this peer community.

PHOTOGRAPHY Veronica Tay
ART DIRECTION Adeline Eng
STYLING ASSISTANCE Lena Kamaruddin
HAIR & MAKEUP Aung Apichai / Artistry, using Shu Uemura & Kevin Murphy; Benedict Choo, using Laura Mercier