I hope to inspire at least a few people to believe in themselves

Introduce yourself in a few sentences - who are you today as a person, professional, and woman?

My name is Vanya Ananieva, creator of language schools “Intellect”, escape rooms “The Madness of Genius” and “Bank Heist”, co-founder of the Foundation “Pass It On”, translation agency “Intellect”, as well as the web studio “Fundamental”. Today I try to be a person who learns every day and strives for development, regardless of the circumstances. I constantly work on myself and strive to give the best I can - both in work and outside of it. As a professional, I value teamwork, the efforts of colleagues, and transparency. As a woman, I believe that simple values - respect, care, and patience - can build good and sustainable relationships both in the family and in business.

How does a lady entrepreneur feel when the Day of Women Entrepreneurs arrives? What does this day mean for you personally and professionally?

For me, this is an occasion for reflection - not on achievements, but on the path I have traveled and the people who have supported me. I feel gratitude - towards the team, towards the family, and towards all the women who build their place in business with perseverance, without unnecessary self-praise. In a professional aspect, I try to turn my gaze towards meaning - it is not only important to reach far, but to be part of an environment that supports women and encourages them to act confidently and with character.

What did you dream of as a child? Is there something from those dreams that still drives you forward?

I dreamed of being independent, to be able to create things and help others. I was inspired by the thought that with learning and hard work, one can change oneself and their environment. These ideas have not left me - I continue to believe that small efforts lead to real changes and that every dream begins with a desire to explore and understand the world.

At what age did you earn your first money and what was the feeling? Share a funny or educational story.

I earned my first money as a child, helping the family sell Martenitsi that my grandmother made. The biggest lesson was about discipline - I learned that every penny comes with hard work and perseverance. Getting up at 5 in the morning, standing half-frozen at the bus stop, and being happy for every single customer who appreciates beauty. Responsibility sometimes goes hand in hand with pain and patience, and this is certainly the path to growth.

How did your entrepreneurial journey begin? Do you remember your first steps, the emotions, and the difficulties back then?

My grandmother's apartment. One table and six chairs. And students the age of my parents. The emotions ranged from enthusiasm to fear, but my desire to create a working environment for development was stronger than any doubt. I faced difficulties with distrust towards my idea, lack of financial resources, and uncertainty - but every small victory gave me the strength to continue. I believe that the beginning is the most valuable because of the lessons it provides - about perseverance, humility, and support.

What challenges did you face at the beginning and which taught you the most?

The most serious challenge was convincing the people around me that our work has value. Financial crises, organizational difficulties, and wrong decisions were part of the process. I learned that teamwork is key, that every mistake teaches, and that perseverance is more important than quick success. Every obstacle taught me to be more flexible and to accept that not everything is just a matter of personal effort - support makes success possible.

What is the hardest moment in your career or business and how did you manage to overcome it?

There were periods of crisis when I had to completely rethink my strategies - at that time, it was crucial not to lose trust in myself and in the team. I overcame difficulties through dialogue, innovative solutions, and open communication. I was not alone in those moments - it was the collective efforts and the ability to ask for advice that helped me get through the toughest situations.

And what is your greatest success so far - that moment when you said to yourself “It was worth it”?

True satisfaction comes from the moments when I see that our work has changed the life of someone from the students or the team. When I hear that people feel more confident and successful thanks to our joint efforts, I realize that it has all been worth the effort. When you see the tears in the eyes of elderly people who, at the end of their journey, feel the love of others - that is truly priceless.

What is your greatest lesson as an entrepreneur and as a woman leader?

The most valuable lesson is that trust, resilience, and empathy are at the core of successful leadership. I learned that you must accept changes calmly, listen actively, and know when to take a step back and give others a chance. Female leadership is above all about serving and supporting, not just leading.

Which people or experiences from your childhood have had the greatest influence on who you are today?

The environment in which I grew up had the strongest influence on me - the family and teachers who showed me the meaning of perseverance, hard work, and knowledge. Drawing, as a hobby, inspired me to think creatively, and friendships taught me to accept diversity with respect. I believe that childhood is the foundation for the values you follow throughout your life.

How do you maintain your curiosity and inspiration - what are your sources of energy, knowledge, and new ideas?

Inspiration comes from daily meetings with like-minded people, from books, from music, and from learning new things. I enjoy hearing different perspectives, seeking advice, and participating in training. Exchange with colleagues and students often gives me a new perspective on challenges. I strive to keep an open mind and find small joys that recharge me.

Has your perception of what motivates you and how you measure your success changed over the years?

My motivation has transformed over the years - from striving for results to seeking meaning in work and positive change. Today, I see success not only as personal achievements but also as shared progress of the team and the people around me. For me, small advances that create sustainable results are important, not loud victories.

How did you decide where and what to study? If you could go back, would you choose the same?

My path was predetermined :) I graduated from an English high school, then studied Management and Organization in UNSS, followed by English Philology at SU, and then Communication and Brand Management at NBU. My decision to develop in education was the result of much reflection and a desire to be useful. Languages and communication have been close to me since I was little. Today I believe that understanding and supporting others was the right choice. If I had to make the decision again, I would choose this path again - not because it is the easiest, but because it makes the most sense.

What helped you the most in the transition from education to entrepreneurship?

The transition was facilitated by hard work, perseverance, and the support of friends and family. My teachers and family helped me find confidence in myself. I have always wanted to give more than I receive - this mindset helped me get through uncertainty and start my first projects with humility and determination.

How do you maintain your personal brand and how would you like people to talk about you when you are not in the room?

My personal brand is built on transparency, integrity, and a desire to support those around me. I would like people to remember me as a worthy person who serves society. The most important thing for me is the trust that people associate with me, not the words they use to describe me.

Female leadership is often associated with empathy and resilience. How do you balance strength and softness in managing people and processes?

I do not believe in extremes - I try to be balanced and listen carefully. I rely on an individual approach, on listening, on support, and on firmness when necessary. Female leadership, in my opinion, requires being tactful, respecting processes and people, and giving the team the opportunity to shine.

How does a lady entrepreneur maintain herself - what helps you to always be in shape, inspired, and confident?

Sports, time with loved ones, and healthy habits are important to me. I prefer simple practices that help me feel calm and inspired. The greatest support comes from a positive environment and the opportunity to share ideas with people I respect.

What are your rituals or practices for emotional intelligence, balance, and harmony in a busy daily life?

I have small rituals - short meditations, evening walks, reading a good book. I do not strive to be perfect - I allow myself to show vulnerability, to seek support, and to share my emotions with those around me. This helps me find balance even on stressful days.

What place do money occupy in your perception of success? What is your personal principle regarding financial independence and satisfaction?

Money is a necessity, but it is not the primary goal. Financial independence is important for security, but satisfaction comes from meaning and the ability to support others. For me, true success is the freedom to do good, not the size of results or profits.

What advice would you give to ladies considering starting their own business but are still hesitant?

I would advise them not to be afraid to try and not to worry about mistakes. The most important thing is to have support, sometimes it comes from family, sometimes from mentors or friends. Small steps are more important than big promises, and success is a path that is built with time and patience.

What makes you feel truly successful - personal satisfaction, achievements, influence on others, or something else?

True satisfaction comes when I see the joy in the team, students, and our partners. I love the quiet, small successes and the moments when we have helped someone overcome difficulty. I am happy when our students achieve enviable results, when the elderly people we help with Pass It On find meaning in their days. There is no greater reward than that.

What do you want to leave behind - in your organization, community, or in the world?

I want to leave behind sustainable good practices, trust, and support for the environment we are building. I hope to inspire at least a few people to believe in themselves and help others, just as I was taught once. I believe that small gestures and pure relationships are the most valuable legacy we can give.