After hours of practice, plenty of nerves and an unforgettable few days in Belfast, I was thrilled to be crowned All-Ireland Latex Microblading Champion at WULOP Ireland 2026. Here's how it all happened.
What an experience! One I don’t think I will ever forget.
WULOP (World Universal League of Permanent Makeup) is one of the most prestigious PMU competitions and conferences in the world, bringing together some of the industry’s most talented artists.
Having followed WULOP for some time, this year felt different. With the Ireland leg being held in Belfast, my home city, I knew this was my chance. I was going to put myself out there and compete!
The preparation
I entered the Latex Microblading category and from then on, it was all about practice, practice and more practice! For anyone unfamiliar with the category, latex microblading involves creating realistic eyebrow hair strokes on a practice surface rather than working on a live model. It's a test of precision and technique.
I spent countless hours working on my pattern, refining my technique and trying to get every little detail right. I knew I wanted to give it my best.
Competition day, Belfast!
The competition was held in the absolutely stunning Titanic Hotel in Belfast. The surroundings were just beautiful, and having it all take place in my home city made it even more special.
I don’t think I had prepared myself for how emotional I would feel. On the drive there one of my favourite bands, The Cranberries (an iconic Irish band) came on the radio with Dreams, and I felt tears roll down my face! I think the excitement, nerves and realisation of what I was about to do hit me all at once.
New friendships
One of the nicest things to come out of the whole experience was the friendships I made with the other girls competing.
We all connected, bonded and genuinely became friends. Even though we were competing against each other, there was nothing but encouragement and support.
The PMU industry can be quite a lonely one, especially when you’re working on your own in your studio. So it’s lovely to meet people who understand exactly what you do, share the same passion and know the hard work that goes into it.
We’ve even set up our own groups to keep in touch, share tips, advice and information and support each other. And I think that’s pretty special. It’s lovely knowing that these friendships will continue long after the competition.
The conference and gala evening
The whole WULOP Ireland event was just fabulous and so well organised.
One of my favourite parts was getting to meet and learn from artists and educators I had watched online and admired for years. To actually be in the same room, listen to them and watch their demonstrations was such a fantastic opportunity.
And then, of course, we had the gala dinner! Held in the beautiful Titanic Museum. It was such a lovely evening and a fabulous way to celebrate the whole experience and enjoy everything that WULOP had brought together.
All Ireland Champion, Latex Microblading!
I was absolutely delighted to be awarded FIRST PLACE in the Latex Microblading category, making me the All Ireland Champion!
I went into this competition wanting to challenge myself and see what I could achieve. To come away with an All Ireland title was something I had only dared to dream of. I am so incredibly proud of this achievement!
A massive thank you to everyone involved in organising such a fantastic event, to the educators and judges, and especially to all the lovely girls I shared this experience with.
And to everyone who supported and encouraged me along the way, thank you. It really does mean so much.
Olivia Forbes x
Thinking About Microblading?
If you're considering microblading for your own brows, find out more about my PhiBrows treatments and what to expect.