Build skills, not just chase titles

Introduce yourself in a few sentences..

My name is Yoana Tsekova and I am an actress and dancer. I have been dancing classical ballet and contemporary dance since I was little, and recently I have also been doing stunts. I work both in the theater and in film. I am a ballet teacher and I love my job.

What did you dream of becoming in your childhood?

I have always wanted to be on stage – and fortunately, I fulfilled that dream.

What are the main factors and examples that shape us as individuals at an early age and form our interests? What is Your recipe for curiosity, sources and wells of information and inspiration at this stage of our human development?

I believe that at an early age our interests are influenced by the family environment, teachers, and friends. Currently, my main source of information is books, movies, and – of course – personal experiences that influence my imagination and worldview, shape my way of thinking, and have helped me discover my interest in art.

Has there been any significant difference in perceptions Your and in more mature age about what motivates you to do or not do something?

In my teenage years, I had a greater interest in competitions. Successes in the form of medals or diplomas motivated me. Currently, I find inspiration and motivation in expressing a meaningful idea through art, as well as in helping the children from my dance school to fulfill their dreams – just as I fulfilled mine.

Whose decision was it where to pursue higher education and what to study? Was this decision correct, looking back today?

The decision to study at NATFIZ was mine and to this day I am grateful for the education and the teachers I had. I would not change my choice if I had the opportunity. I strive to inspire more people to choose this path in life and to view art not as a hobby, but as an opportunity for realization.

Share with us more about your interests, knowledge, skills, and hobbies.

I have often shared that my hobby and profession coincide. Rarely do people have an interest simultaneously in something gentle and delicate like classical ballet and something powerful like stunts. But somehow I combine them, complement them, and in this way, I build myself as an artist. I have experience in the art of illusions, and I am also a passionate traveler. I find art and beauty everywhere, and each of my hobbies complements the palette of my life.

Would you change your profession today and which areas of activity capture Your interest?

I would not change my profession, but I am interested in everything related to stage and screen art. I would work in a circus.

Emotional intelligence, adaptability, and flexibility, as well as our soft skills are key conditions for success in recent years. How do you cope with daily life challenges to stay in good shape and mood?

The discipline I have built through dance, as well as good habits, routine, and active care for my mind and body bring me inner resilience and mood. Physical activity and creativity are my main support in difficult moments. And quality time spent with my loved ones brings me the greatest happiness.

What are the most important conclusions you have drawn so far about maintaining proper communication considering the different characters of the people you meet daily – colleagues, friends, close ones?

I find it difficult to work with people I do not like. I prefer respectful disagreement over forced agreement. Over time, I have filtered the suitable people with whom I enjoy working and together creating something that makes sense. My family and friends are my closest people with whom I have managed to build a common language.

What is the most valuable career advice you would give to people?

Build skills, not just chase titles.