Intro by 1-StopAsia:

The word workaholic has a different dimension when we have to use it to describe Yana. She is very much dedicated to her work, which makes her a reliable, everpresent manager, who is always ready to work out a problem alongside you.

One time you’ll hear a peal of laughter and another time you’ll see a serious face but what we admire most is that she never shies away from a problem and is always ready to tackle a tough job.

If you happen to talk to her, don't be fooled by her age, just take a glimpse into her eyes and you’ll see the wisdom of experience in them. Because it is no coincidence that she is our Executive Manager for Europe.

But let her tell you a bit more about herself in the interview below:

Interview:

How many languages do you speak? Please write them in a list. Which is your mother tongue?
My second language is English and my mother tongue - Bulgarian. I know a bit of Russian but I am not very fluent in speaking it, although I understand.

What is your favorite sport or hobby in your free time? Why is it so? Any interesting stories on it?
My biggest passion is traveling. This hobby gives me sparkle for life, dreaming big and the possibility to discover other cultures and eras. I love the fact that it gives my brain and soul a respite from the daily routine and stress.

A funny fact I have up my sleeve is the fact that I have traveled so much around the country that I have visited most of the cities in it about 20 times each.

The second one I wanna share is that there is not a week that has passed in the last 10 years that I have not had traveled at least 100 km away from my home.

The only continent I’ve explored up to date is Europe but I dream about going to Asia, Australia, Canada, and Alaska.

Top 3 things we don’t know about you? Might be something funny, quirky or strange :)

1. I am addicted to all things yellow.
2. I have my own business for years now and I manage it by myself alongside my position at 1-StopAsia.
3. You will never see me standing on the edge of a mountain - I have a very strong aversion to heights.

What was the most surprising thing you learned about Asia while working here?
People are very kind and supportive when you ask them for help. It’s amazing what a big role hierarchy plays not only in families but in the business world, too along with the culture to follow rules. Asians also tend not to change their working place very often. Their culture and world is super different than the European lifestyle and understanding but at the same time, we are quite similar in other aspects of our lives.

Favorite book or a book that changed your mindset and why it did?
Truth to be told I have never had a favorite book. I am addicted to reading and I have a habit of mine that I’ve maintained for years now - I buy and read at least two books every month. After each book I’ve read, I feel becoming slightly different from when I started it. And that is the beauty of it!

Your most extreme experience so far in your life/biggest challenge in your life?
Now that is a big one and you’ll know why the moment I share it with you. I am aiming to learn to be an excellent multitasker in business, to keep my mind razor-sharp, and at the same time to balance well enough with my personal life - my family and the people around me.

Your top 3 goals in professional life for the next 10 years

This is an easy one as I have a few clear goals already:

1. I want to complete my 3rd University degree, which is in …..
2. I want to find my personal peaceful spot all the time. To be calm and approach any challenge with good reason and efficiency.
3. And last but not least, I want to evolve as a personality which will then lead to me being a better manager and professional.