Earlier this year Ohio-based nail tech Lavette Cephus took the title of NAILS Next Top Nail Artist Season 2 winner. Her passion, inspired designs, and her ability to grow and inspire others helped her come out on top as champion. Most recently, Cephus has been busy creating avant-garde looks for NYFW and CND. If you aren’t keeping up with this fashion-forward nail tech, you should. Here are three reasons why:

1. She is perseverance personified. Cephus was a tough competitor in the NTNA competition and showed us she's a well-rounded individual who's motivate to overcome obstacles and chase her dreams. You can read more about her here. 

2. She’s officially a part of CND’s dream team.

During ABS in Chicago last weekend, Cephus was one of three nail techs selected as a NEXTGEN artist to represent the industry’s future. 

3. She’s an expert at a good set of acrylics and hand-painted nail art. Check out her work on Instagram @beaute_asylum for major inspiration.

Make sure you follow Cephus on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Nail Art Gallery, and YouTube.

Do you think you have what it takes to be NAILS Next Top Nail Artist? Now’s your chance to test your skills. Apply for a spot in the season 3 competition here.