IYKO SPOTLIGHT: Kimberley Lever – Artist, Educator & Founder of MIKI Academy

IYKO Spotlight: Kimberley – Artist, Educator & Founder of MIKI Academy

In this edition of the IYKO Spotlight, we caught up with Kimberley Lever, a makeup artist with nearly TWO DECADES of experience, a deep love for clean, timeless beauty, and the founder of MIKI Academy. Her platform helps fellow artists turn their craft into a sustainable business. From her early MAC days to creating a global education community, Kimberley shares her journey, creative mindset, and what success really means to her now.

From Disney dresses to MAC counters

Kimberley’s love for beauty started young. “I’ve always loved dressing up. If there was a Disney dress, best believe I had it,” she laughs. That obsession naturally evolved into a love for makeup and fashion in her teens. She’d save up her birthday money to book appointments at MAC, not just to get her makeup done, but to soak in the artistry. “I was obsessed with watching the artists on counter. This was back when MAC was super artistry focused. I’d spend hours asking questions or booking in just to talk to them.”

When it came time to choose her path, the timing was perfect. A new media makeup course had just launched at her local college, and for Kimberley, the decision was a no-brainer. “It felt like the stars had aligned.”

A style that stood the test of trends

Like many artists, Kimberley didn’t discover her style overnight. “At first I was just keen to learn. I went through phases, yes, even the colourful cut crease era, but I’ve always been drawn to clean, timeless beauty, even before it became a trend.”

Her aesthetic is now defined by that kind of elevated simplicity. Polished, soft, enhanced beauty that feels fresh no matter the year or trend cycle. “It’s the kind of work that never dates. That’s always been at the heart of what I do.”

Navigating creativity and business

For Kimberley, artistry is at her core. But building a career in makeup today means wearing multiple hats. “Doing makeup is therapy to me, it’s my outlet. But when I have to switch into strategy and structure mode, it can interrupt my flow.”

She’s found her balance by ensuring her business runs smoothly in the background, giving her space to create when inspiration hits. “Some days I’m in my business brain, other days I’m flowing creatively. I’ve learned not to feel guilty about where I’m at. Both sides are valid.”

The evolution of MIKI Academy

Kimberley has been teaching since she was 19, just a year after joining MAC. “Education has always been part of my journey, but at first it was always about makeup skills, not business.”

She launched MIKI Academy six years ago as an in-person learning space for beginner and pro artists alike. Then came the pandemic, and with it, a pivot to online education that expanded her reach globally.

“Over time, I started to notice a pattern. Incredibly talented artists were giving up because no one had ever shown them how to run a business. That blew my mind.”

Today, MIKI Academy helps artists implement real business strategies that lead to sustainable success. “I realised I had a responsibility to use my voice and experience to make a difference for the people who make up our incredible industry.”

An organised kit = a clear mind

At IYKO, we know that the way you carry your kit says a lot about how you show up. Kimberley agrees.

“I absolutely love everything about IYKO. Having a clean, well presented kit gives me confidence. It’s that clear space, clear mind feeling. We already solve enough problems on set, we don’t need chaos in the kit too.”

While she often works with an assistant to keep things prepped, her approach is rooted in simplicity and performance. “I’m not the artist buying every trending item. I stick to multi-use products that I trust. No 50kg makeup bags here.”

The most valuable technique? Know your go-to process

Every part of application matters, but if Kimberley had to choose one thing to master, it’s layering. “It’s been my ride or die technique. Layering gives me control and allows me to build gradually instead of correcting later, especially when it comes to skin.”

But it’s not just about product. “Know your go-to process. Your signature style. Something you can fall back on and know it’ll work, even when you’re under pressure.”

Being great at makeup isn’t enough

It might sound bold, but Kimberley says it how it is. “One of the biggest misconceptions? That being good at makeup is enough.”

She explains that artistry is only part of the equation. “This is a service based industry. Success depends on how well you communicate, market yourself, build trust, and position your work. Skills open the door, but mindset, strategy and purpose keep you in the room.”

Confidence starts at setup

“To me, a well prepped kit says you’ve got your sh*t together,” she laughs. “From the moment I start setting up, I want my client to feel looked after. If I’m calm, confident and in control, that energy carries into the whole experience.”

Her proudest moments

Looking back, Kimberley feels most proud of how far she’s come and the trust she’s earned along the way. “When people, brands and clients see me as an expert, that’s such a fulfilling feeling. But more than that, I’m proud of the community I’ve built. I’ve been part of so many artists’ stories, and they’ve been part of mine.”

She pauses for a moment. “Little Kimberley would be proud of me today. And that means everything.”

Redefining success

“When I started, I didn’t even have social media. I didn’t know where I wanted to take this, I just knew I loved it. I wanted to get good, to challenge myself.”

Years later, with all the ups, downs and turning points, Kimberley says success now looks very different.

“Success for me is doing something I love every day. Having the freedom to choose my reality. Creating, connecting, and sharing what I’ve learned with others. That’s the dream.”

Until next time! xx