We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alena Kozhevnikova a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alena , so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
I’ve found that my confidence and self-esteem have grown tremendously through continuous learning and exploration. Whether it’s mastering a new swing in tennis, diving into paddle, taking Spanish classes, or honing negotiation skills at Harvard Business School, each new challenge has pushed me outside of my comfort zone and allowed me to discover more about myself. With each accomplishment, big or small, I’ve gained a deeper sense of belief in my abilities and a stronger foundation of self-worth. The process of learning and growth has not only expanded my skill set but has also boosted my confidence in tackling new endeavors with enthusiasm and determination.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
In 2021, I embarked on a journey into teaching DJing, a passion that had long been brewing within me. Little did I know, the pandemic would become the catalyst for transforming this passion into a full-fledged school. With everything shut down and my traditional sources of income vanished, as an immigrant, the uncertainty was daunting. However, necessity sparked innovation, and I launched my DJ Academy.
Teaching DJ classes quickly became more than just a job; it became a source of immense joy and fulfillment. What truly excites me is witnessing the growth of my students. Seeing them evolve from novices to confident performers is incredibly rewarding. Their progress motivates me to go above and beyond, guiding them to secure performances and refine their craft.
The demand for my teaching extended far beyond the confines of Miami, with requests pouring in from other states. Recognizing the opportunity to reach a broader audience, I made the decision to create an online course. This course aims to empower aspiring DJs worldwide, providing them with the tools and knowledge to pursue their passion regardless of their location.
Through teaching and sharing my expertise, I not only help others fulfill their dreams but also find a profound sense of purpose and satisfaction in my own journey as an educator and entrepreneur.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three key skills have been instrumental in shaping my journey:
Marketing and PR Expertise: Leveraging my marketing degree and PR career in Moscow, I’ve effectively promoted my DJ school and online courses, connecting with my audience and building a strong brand presence.
DJ Knowledge: My deep understanding of DJing, honed through years of experience, has not only served as the foundation of my business but also enhanced my teaching abilities and credibility among students.
Entrepreneurship: Embracing challenges and seizing opportunities, my entrepreneurial mindset has driven innovation and growth, allowing me to navigate obstacles and expand my business globally.
My advice is simple: if you’re considering starting a new business or pursuing a completely different job, take action and don’t procrastinate.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
We continually seek collaborations with hospitality venues such as restaurants, hotels, and bars, offering them the opportunity to enhance their atmosphere with our talented DJs, all without any additional cost to them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.miamidjacademy.com
- Instagram: aloona.official
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
