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UAE-based OFW secures top spot in prestigious permanent makeup competition, set to compete in Turkey next

A Filipina based in Dubai made waves in the beauty industry by winning the top spot in the Microblading category at the World Universal League of Permanent Makeup (WULOP) Championship Dubai 2024. Christine Aggasid, who has been living and working overseas for 12 years, is currently a nurse and aesthetic therapist, balancing both professions while excelling in the field of permanent makeup (PMU).

Christine’s journey into the world of PMU began in 2016, three years after moving to Dubai. Initially, she worked as a nurse and insurance supervisor at a clinic, later venturing into business by opening an interior and fit-out company. When that business slowed down, she shifted gears, eventually discovering her passion for semi-permanent makeup—starting with microblading.

“I knew I had found my passion when my first client was so satisfied with my work, despite it taking me four hours to finish. Her happiness made me realize that this was what I wanted to do,” she recalled in an interview with The Global Filipino Magazine. From that moment, her dedication to mastering PMU only grew stronger.

After completing a Biotouch master class in 2017, Christine became the first Biotouch Master in the UAE. She began freelancing at various clinics before focusing full-time on PMU, eventually partnering with a clinic and becoming both a licensed beauty therapist and nurse.

Overcoming challenges at WULOP Dubai 2024

The WULOP Championship Dubai 2024, held from September 13-15, was a highly competitive event that brought together PMU masters from across the globe. The competition was intense, but Christine faced the challenge head-on, even when she encountered delays during her setup.

“I was the last person to get a bed, and I didn’t start until 30 minutes after the clock started ticking,” she recalled. “Seeing the other competitors already working on their models was nerve-wracking. But once I calmed down, I focused on giving my model the best brows I could.”

Christine completed her microblading session in 1.5 hours, impressing the judges with her skill and precision. “After the session, my model received compliments from the judges, and one of them even said ‘perfecto’ in Spanish. That’s when I knew I had done a great job, though I tried not to raise my expectations too high,” she shared.

Her hard work paid off when she was announced as the 1st Place winner in the Microblading category, marking a significant milestone not only for her but also for the Filipino community in Dubai.

Eyes set on WULOP World Championship in Turkey

Following her victory in Dubai, Christine is now preparing to compete on a global stage at the WULOP World Championship in Turkey on October 21, 2024, where she will face over 60 national champions from around the world.

“I’m practicing every day to perfect my craft. I’m hopeful that, with God’s will, I’ll secure a place in the world championship,” she said. “Regardless of the outcome, I already feel like a winner in my heart. Winning in Dubai has made my family, the Filipino community, and the UAE proud.”

As she continues her journey in PMU, Christine is eager to inspire and guide others who are pursuing the same path. “Success doesn’t come overnight; it takes years of dedication, perseverance, and resilience,” she advised. “There will always be great artists ahead of you, but don’t envy them. Focus on becoming one of them by continuously doing your best.”

She added, “When you care about your client, you’ll naturally do your best work. Never stop believing in yourself, and if you ever feel lost, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to guide you on your journey to success.”