As part of our International Women's Day celebrations, we had the pleasure to speak with Ecaterina Oancea the founder of K2VD Ltd, a company driven by her passion for beauty, health, and education, K2VD bridges the gap between medical expertise and aesthetics. They aim to provide safe, innovative treatments while empowering future professionals with world-class training.
Tell us about yourself.
I am a highly experienced medical doctor specializing in aesthetic medicine, with a strong background in both classic and holistic approaches to beauty and wellness. My business, K2VD Medical Aesthetics Clinic & Academy, is built on the foundation of excellence, innovation, and education. We provide cutting-edge aesthetic treatments while also training the next generation of professionals through internationally accredited courses. Our academy is more than just a place of learning—it is a launchpad for careers, equipping students with the expertise, confidence, and certifications needed to thrive in the global aesthetic industry.
We believe in empowering individuals, whether they are patients seeking natural, transformative aesthetic treatments or students looking to build a successful, legally recognized career in medical aesthetics. Our mission is to set the highest standards in the industry, ensuring both safety and artistry in every treatment and course we offer.
What inspired you to set up K2VD Ltd?
My journey began with a deep passion for enhancing beauty in a way that aligns with health and well-being. Over the years, I noticed a significant gap in aesthetic education and practice—many practitioners lacked proper training, leading to inconsistent results and potential risks for patients. I wanted to create something different: a place where medical expertise meets artistry, where professionals receive world-class training, and where patients receive personalized, safe, and effective treatments.
Additionally, as a woman in the medical and business world, I wanted to inspire and uplift others, showing that with the right skills and determination, one can achieve both professional excellence and financial independence. My clinic and academy represent my commitment to quality, education, and empowerment in the aesthetic industry.
What challenges have you faced so far in building K2VD Ltd?
Building a business in the medical aesthetics industry is both exciting and demanding. One of the biggest challenges has been establishing credibility in an industry where quality can vary significantly. To stand out, I had to ensure that every aspect of my clinic and academy reflected the highest standards of medical professionalism, ethics, and innovation.
Another challenge has been balancing entrepreneurship with my role as a doctor, educator, and mentor. Running a business requires not just medical expertise but also strategic thinking, leadership, and adaptability. Staying ahead in a constantly evolving field means continuous learning, investment in new technologies, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Lastly, breaking barriers as a female entrepreneur in a competitive industry has required resilience. However, these challenges have only strengthened my resolve to inspire other women to step into leadership roles, proving that success is possible with passion, education, and the right mindset.
How can ARU London students benefit from using K2VD Ltd?
ARU London students have the opportunity to benefit from my business in multiple ways:
• World-Class Education & Training – For those interested in the beauty and medical aesthetics industry, our internationally accredited courses provide practical, hands-on training that can open doors to global career opportunities.
• Mentorship & Career Guidance – I am deeply invested in helping aspiring professionals succeed. My academy offers students guidance on building their own practice, navigating regulations, and mastering both the technical and business aspects of aesthetics. • Exclusive Networking & Job Opportunities – Graduates from our academy become part of a prestigious network of aesthetic practitioners, increasing their chances of success in a competitive industry.
• High-Quality, Safe Aesthetic Treatments – Students can also benefit personally by accessing state-of-the-art, medically supervised aesthetic treatments, ensuring they receive the best care while experiencing the latest innovations in the field.
What advice would you give to students and/or other young women who are trying to become an entrepreneur or start their own businesses?
My advice is simple yet powerful: Believe in your vision, invest in your skills, and never be afraid to take action.
1. Become an expert – Knowledge is your greatest asset. Whether in aesthetics, business, or any other field, master your craft and ensure you bring real value to the market.
2. Take calculated risks – Success comes to those who dare to step out of their comfort zone. Be strategic, but don’t let fear hold you back.
3. Build a strong network – Surround yourself with mentors, industry leaders, and like-minded professionals who can support and inspire you on your journey.
4. Adapt and innovate – The world is constantly changing. Stay ahead by embracing new trends, investing in continuous learning, and evolving your business to meet the demands of the industry.
5. Empower yourself and others – As women, we have the power to create, lead, and inspire. Be bold, be confident, and never underestimate the impact you can make.
Success is not just about reaching a financial goal—it’s about creating a meaningful impact, breaking barriers, and leaving a legacy. If I could build a thriving business from my passion, so can you.
How can we encourage more women to pursue entrepreneurship within their careers?
Encouraging more women to pursue entrepreneurship starts with changing the narrative—women are not just capable business leaders; they are innovators, strategists, and industry pioneers. To truly empower women in entrepreneurship, we must:
1. Provide Access to Education & Training – Knowledge is power. Women need access to high-quality business education, mentorship, and skill-building programs that give them the confidence and expertise to launch and sustain their ventures.
2. Create Supportive Networks – Women thrive when they are surrounded by like-minded, ambitious individuals. Business communities, mentorship programs, and networking events specifically designed for women can provide invaluable support.
3. Highlight Success Stories – Representation matters. When women see successful female entrepreneurs who have built thriving businesses, it reinforces the belief that they, too, can achieve the same.
4. Encourage Financial Independence – Many women hesitate to start businesses due to financial uncertainty. Investment programs, grants, and financial literacy training can give women the tools to confidently manage and grow their businesses.
5. Change Workplace Cultures – Women should not have to choose between a career and personal life. Creating business environments that support flexibility, leadership opportunities, and work-life balance will inspire more women to take the entrepreneurial leap.
Ultimately, the key is to empower women with knowledge, resources, and a strong community so they can step into leadership roles with confidence and determination.
What is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about their careers?
The most important message I want to send is this: You are capable of achieving anything you set your mind to, as long as you believe in yourself and take action.
• Do not wait for permission to succeed – Society may have its expectations, but you define your own path. Take ownership of your dreams and pursue them unapologetically.
• Invest in yourself – The best investment you will ever make is in your education, skills, and personal growth. Knowledge and confidence will always open doors.
• Failure is part of success – Don’t be afraid of setbacks. Every successful woman you admire has faced challenges. Learn from them, adapt, and keep going.
• Surround yourself with the right people – Build relationships with mentors, role models, and like-minded professionals who uplift and inspire you. Your environment shapes your success.
• Dream big and take action – Ambition is only the first step. Execution is what turns dreams into reality. Start now, even if it’s small—momentum will take you further than you ever imagined.
Your career should align with your passions, strengths, and values. When you pursue a path that excites and challenges you, success becomes not just a goal, but an inevitable outcome.
Are there any female leaders you find inspirational?
Yes, and I believe that leadership is not just about recognition or international fame—it is about transformation. A true leader is someone whose journey from point A to point B is one of profound growth, impact, and innovation. Leadership can be found in anyone who challenges the norm, overcomes obstacles, and inspires others through their evolution.
Two internationally recognized female doctors who inspire me are:
• Dr. Barbara Sturm – A pioneer in regenerative aesthetics, she built a globally recognized skincare line based on scientific innovation and personalized treatments. Her work has redefined anti-inflammatory skincare and set new standards in aesthetic medicine.
• Dr. Samar Obagi – A key figure in dermatology and aesthetics, she has played a vital role in developing one of the most advanced medical skincare lines. Her contributions have helped shape modern skin health protocols used by professionals worldwide.
Beyond these well-known figures, there are countless professionals whose journeys, though less publicized, are equally inspiring. Some of the most valuable lessons come from those who dedicate their lives to innovation and patient care without seeking the spotlight. True leadership is about transformation—about evolving, inspiring, and paving the way for others, regardless of fame or status.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
One of the best pieces of advice I have ever received is: “Success is not about luck—it’s about preparation, persistence, and seizing opportunities when they come.”
• Be ready before the opportunity arrives – Invest in yourself before you need it. Learn, grow, and refine your skills so that when an opportunity presents itself, you are prepared to step into it with confidence.
• Persistence is everything – The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t is often just one more attempt, one more risk, one more lesson learned.
• Don’t be afraid to stand out – You don’t have to fit into an existing mold. Create your own space, lead with authenticity, and let your work speak for itself.
• Never compromise on your values – No success is worth sacrificing your integrity. Stay true to your vision, your ethics, and your long-term goals.
This advice has shaped my journey, reminding me that every challenge is an opportunity, every failure is a lesson, and every dream is possible when you are willing to work for it.
Connect with K2VD Ltd and be sure to support a female business owner this International Women's Day!
Email: k2vd.ltd@gmail.com