Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Sanja Zdjelar of Skopje

Sanja Zdjelar shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Sanja, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A normal day for me right now usually starts with organizing and planning for upcoming wedding celebrations and events. I spend part of the day coordinating with clients, discussing their vision, and tailoring my performance to match the atmosphere they want for their special day. Rehearsals are an important part of my routine, as I focus on creating not just music, but a full show experience that brings energy, elegance, and emotion to the celebration. Outside of rehearsals and planning, I keep myself inspired and refreshed with exercise, creativity, and quality time with loved ones—so that when I step on stage, I can give my best energy and create unforgettable moments.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Sanja Zdjelar, a 23-year-old violinist based in Macedonia. What I do is more than just playing music—I create full show experiences with a strong focus on our rich folk tradition. By blending the soulful sounds of traditional music with a modern stage presence, I bring something fresh and powerful to weddings and celebrations. My performances are all about energy, emotion, and honoring our culture in a way that feels unique and unforgettable.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
The person who taught me the most about work is life itself. Every performance, every challenge, and every opportunity has shaped my discipline and creativity. Of course, I’ve been inspired by many musicians and mentors along the way, but it’s the experience of stepping on stage, connecting with people, and constantly pushing myself to grow that has given me the strongest lessons about dedication, passion, and hard work.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self: *Trust your journey and never doubt your uniqueness. Every hour of practice, every challenge, and every risk will shape you into the artist you’re meant to be—so keep believing in yourself and enjoy the process.*

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My best friend, Vasilija Petrova, would say that what truly matters to me is bringing joy and unforgettable moments to people through my music. She knows how deeply I care about honoring our cultural traditions while adding my own energy and creativity, and that I always give my heart and soul to every performance.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people will remember me as someone who brought music, joy, and unforgettable energy into every celebration. I want them to say that I honored tradition while fearlessly creating my own path, and that my performances didn’t just entertain—they touched hearts and made people feel alive.

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