In an industry often viewed purely through the lens of aesthetics, the journey of Pratistha Ayonna reveals a more layered narrative defined by resilience, technical discipline, and a sustained pursuit of excellence. At just 22, the Gold Medallist in Beauty Therapy at the India Skills Competition represents a new generation reshaping the standards of beauty and wellness in India.
Her introduction to the field was neither strategic nor conventional. “My mum has been in this industry as a trainer, and I used to go to her classes from a very young age. I was fascinated by everything she did, from the massages and machines to the colours,” she recalls. What began as curiosity soon evolved into something more intentional. “I would come home and, during playtime, put expired make-up on my aunt or anyone I could find. That was my idea of fun.”
The decision to pursue beauty therapy, however, required conviction. “My family is very academically inclined. Everyone is either an engineer, doctor, or lawyer, so this field was completely out of the question,” she says. To secure their support, she took a structured approach. “I made a full presentation for my father, explaining what my journey could look like. That’s how I convinced him.”
TRAINING AND TRANSITION
While her initial training began locally, her association with LTA School of Beauty proved pivotal. “I discovered LTA through a WorldSkills video, and I remember thinking, if I do something, I want to leave a mark. That’s what drew me to it,” she says. Relocating over 1,500 kilometres from home was daunting but transformative. “The day my parents left, I was extremely anxious. But the very next day, I was in class, and that’s where everything started changing.”
At LTA, the training extended far beyond technical instruction. “They didn’t just train us as students; they trained us as professionals. We were taught how to identify our own mistakes, to check our own precision and symmetry,” she explains. This emphasis on self-assessment and detail became her competitive edge. “It’s the minor details that people often miss, but those are the things that actually set you apart.”
FROM SETBACK TO SUCCESS
Her first attempt earned her a silver medal at the state level. While commendable, it did not meet her own expectations. “Somewhere, I wasn’t satisfied. I knew I could do better,” she admits. Instead of stepping back, she chose to push forward. “I kept asking if I was still eligible to compete again. I didn’t want to regret not trying.”
The following year marked a clear shift. With advanced certifications and rigorous training, her performance improved significantly, culminating in national gold. Her approach combined technical precision with strong client engagement. “Beauty therapy is not just about technique. It’s about the connection you build with the client. Without proper consultation, you can’t truly understand their needs,” she says.
COMPOSURE UNDER PRESSURE
The competition environment presented challenges, from time constraints to unexpected product
behaviour. Recalling a difficult moment, she says, “During one task, I used the wrong base for a peel-off mask, and it set immediately. I knew it had gone wrong, and I panicked.”
What followed defined her performance. “I told myself, ‘Let it be. We’ll fix this. Focus on the next module.’ If I kept stressing, I knew I would mess up everything else.” Techniques such as meditation and controlled breathing played a key role. “I started practising meditation again, even if it was just five minutes. During the competition, I would use breathing techniques or distract myself mentally to stay calm.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Ayonna’s outlook reflects a broader shift within the industry. She highlights the growing integration of wellness elements such as aromatherapy and sound therapy as part of a more holistic approach. “It’s no longer just about delivering a service. It’s about care and overall well-being. Clients today want someone who understands not just their skin but their lifestyle too,” she notes.
Looking ahead, her ambitions are both expansive and purposeful. “I want to explore the industry because it has so much to offer. But eventually, I want to build something of my own that serves people, not just another salon but something that creates real impact,” she says.