From Global Trade Leader to Entrepreneur: Nadiya's Journey of Resilience, Innovation, and Empowerment
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Nadiya is an accomplished international trade leader with a diverse background, holding Master's degrees in Genetics and Business Management, specializing in Polymorphic Genetic Markers in the Development of Breast Cancer.
From her early days in the banking sector in Ukraine to her corporate roles with major FMCG multinationals in the UAE, she has gained extensive experience in managing regional markets and a diverse range of brands. As the founder of INAS EXIM LLC, she specializes in customized food solutions and is also passionate about raising awareness of environmental challenges through her brand, Mystique.
Recognized for her contributions to women's empowerment, Nadiya has published her first business book, "Synergy: A Synopsis of an Elite Business Partnership," sharing her journey and expertise in international trade and business management.
Can you tell our readers about your background?
Thank you for your interest!
I am Nadiya, a global international trade leader with a diverse educational and professional background. With two Master's degrees in Genetics and Business Management.
My career began in the banking sector in Ukraine, but my passion for global markets led me to Egypt, where I worked for an export-import trading company. From there, I moved to the UAE, where I had the privilege of working with renowned FMCG multinationals such as Nestle, Lactalis, and Ornua. In these roles, I successfully managed 12 regional markets and a diverse range of brands.
Through direct communication with end-users and hands-on experience, I gained deep insights into product development, manufacturing challenges, and the technical aspects of various products.
In 2015, I founded INAS EXIM LLC, a company specializing in offering customized food solutions for retail, bulk for factories, and the hospitality industry. Additionally, I developed skills in creating environmentally friendly wall decorations through my brand, Mystique, aiming to raise awareness about pollution and environmental challenges.
I am honored to have been recognized for my achievements in women's empowerment and was awarded the title of Best Personality at the Women Empowerment Platform in the UAE in 2020. Furthermore, I have been published in reputable international magazines such as Authority Magazine, CIO Times, and Thrive Global, where I shared my extensive experiences in the business world.
To further share my journey and insights, I published my first business book titled "Synergy: A Synopsis of an Elite Business Partnership" in September 2022. This book provides valuable details about my experiences and knowledge in the field of international trade and business management.
What inspired you to start your business?
The inspiration behind starting my business can be traced back to my upbringing and the desire to overcome the challenges I faced growing up in Ukraine. Born and raised in UkrSSR during the dominance of the Soviet Union, I witnessed the suppression of my country's culture and language under the influence of Russian history, economy, and traditions.
From a young age, I had a thirst for knowledge and a strong curiosity about other nations, cultures, and lifestyles. I dreamt of traveling the world and exploring different aspects of life beyond the confines of my own country. However, after completing my schooling, Ukraine faced economic challenges that affected the financial well-being of my family.
In order to pursue higher education, I chose to study international business as it offered affordability and flexibility to work and pay for my own studies. This education provided me with the tools and skills necessary to work in foreign lands, further fueling my desire to explore beyond Ukraine.
In 2005, I seized an opportunity to work in Egypt as an indoor sales representative. This experience was a culture shock for me, as I faced harassment and challenges as a young European woman in a new environment. Despite the difficulties, I managed to establish a new line of business, exporting citrus fruits from Egypt to Ukraine. This venture required extensive travel to manage orders and shipments, with minimal profit margins for the efforts invested.
Seeking new opportunities, I eventually secured a position in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, working for renowned food companies. My corporate career in the UAE presented its own set of challenges due to cultural differences, but I persisted, continuously improving myself and investing in personal growth.
Driven by my experiences and determination, I finally established my own food company, INAS EXIM, with a focus on developing new products and brands from Ukraine to the MENA region. This endeavor allows me to combine my passion for international business, my Ukrainian roots, and my desire to bridge cultures
Where is your business based?
INAS EXIM is a UAE-based company, registered and operating in the United Arab Emirates. However, we engage in business activities with various vendors and suppliers globally, expanding our reach beyond the borders of the UAE.
How did you start your business? What were the first steps you took?
I started my business initially in partnership, relying on my partner's skills and connections while focusing on securing export clients through my network. Our venture involved re-exporting Sunflower Oil and Walnuts from Ukraine to the Middle East. However, issues arose when my partner mishandled the supplies, booking consignments through a third party and causing delays and miscommunication. Furthermore, he made an advance payment for a walnut order without informing me or the client.
These operational errors resulted in blocked funds, strained customer relations, and legal battles. After extensive networking and support, we managed to recover the advance payment for the sunflower oil, but the walnut shipment's case is still pending in court. The experience taught me the importance of not entrusting my investment entirely to others and the need to maintain control over crucial aspects of the business. Unfortunately, the fallout from the partnership's dissolution cost me my long-term financial plans, including a 20-year mortgage payment plan for my family home.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness for your business?
One of the most effective ways of raising awareness for my business has been through interpersonal skills. Building respectful relationships with customers and suppliers has been crucial in navigating through challenges and maintaining a strong network. Despite instances where trust has been taken advantage of, I have remained level-headed and learned how to choose and connect with the right people. In today's competitive world, connections play a vital role in gaining attention and support.
These interpersonal skills have contributed to my success in sourcing and selling, as referrals and recommendations from friends and well-wishers have helped support and sustain my business. During the Covid pandemic, when many companies faced non-shipments, delays, and material unavailability, our strong partnerships with buyers and suppliers allowed us to have a smoother journey compared to others. Our reputation rapidly spread in the markets we operate in, contributing to our growth.
In a specific instance, I encountered a rejection of a large shipment in Jordan due to sudden regulatory changes. Despite the client having branches in other countries, they were unable to resolve the issue. Leveraging my relationships, I managed to get the shipment re-shipped to another Gulf country, obtained approvals from the authorities, and assisted the new client in selling the goods. This challenging situation would not have been overcome without my network and interpersonal skills.
In conclusion, networking, referrals, and providing excellent services have been the best forms of marketing for my business. By building strong relationships and fostering loyalty, we have been able to raise awareness, gain support, and navigate through various obstacles successfully.
What have been your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I faced was the Russo-Ukrainian War, which began in 2014 and escalated with a major invasion by Russia in 2022. This had a significant impact on my business, INAS ExIm LLC, as all exports from Ukraine were disrupted and the company's operations and capital were under threat. To overcome this challenge, I had to make critical decisions and find alternative solutions.
First, I analyzed the situation and realized that running the company at a bare minimum was necessary for survival. Fortunately, two employees who had been supportive during the Covid pandemic had recently joined another company in a similar trade. While it was heartbreaking to lose them, this turned out to be a blessing as it reduced my expenses and allowed me to manage the United Arab Emirates operations on my own.
Since relying solely on Ukrainian trade was no longer feasible, I started exploring alternative suppliers from Europe and other regions. I initiated discussions with companies in Poland, Turkey, Romania, Germany, India, and even within the UAE. By diversifying my sources of goods, I bought time to sort out exports from Ukraine and simultaneously manage the expenses of my company. Utilizing my technical expertise, networking, and contacts, I identified the right alternatives and remained present in the market.
During this period, energy prices were soaring in Ukraine, which gave me an advantage in seeking early bird deals with alternative sources. I managed to book containers from India and closed deals with UAE producers and European regions. The key focus was on the survival of INAS ExIm, and I maintained flexibility by keeping options open to secure stability for the company.
Eventually, Ukraine resumed exporting through alternative channels. Today, while I continue to support Ukrainian exports, I remain vigilant and maintain alternative options to ensure the stability and resilience of my company. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability, resourcefulness, and diversification in the face of challenging circumstances.
How do you stay focused?
As a true entrepreneur, staying focused is not just an option, it's a necessity. The drive and passion for my business keep me focused on my goals, overcoming challenges, and seizing opportunities along the way.
How do you differentiate your business from the competition?
At INAS EXIM LLC, we differentiate ourselves from the competition through our focus on providing solutions rather than just products. We work closely with our clients, understanding their challenges and finding the right solutions to help manage and overcome them. We strive to be more than just a trading company; we aim to be partners in our clients' success.
Our team of experts and extensive network allows us to develop specialized products tailored to the specific needs of the food industry in any market. Whether it's enhancing taste, improving appearance, optimizing performance, or creating innovative packaging solutions, we bring our global expertise to deliver customized products.
But our commitment doesn't stop at product development. We go the extra mile by actively assisting our clients in developing new product ranges, sharing our insights and ideas to support their growth and development. We work hand in hand as a team, collaborating on marketing strategies and implementing them together.
One of our core principles is considering all our customers as business partners. We value long-term relationships built on trust and mutual success. By aligning our goals and working collaboratively, we create a win-win situation for both parties.
Our dedication to providing easy, profitable, and sustainable solutions sets us apart. We prioritize understanding, evaluating, and analyzing the unique needs of each client, ensuring that our offerings truly address their requirements. Through our comprehensive approach, personalized service, and partnership mentality, we strive to be the preferred choice for businesses seeking not just products, but valuable solutions to drive their success.
What has been your most effective marketing strategy to grow your business?
Interpersonal skills and building strong relationships have been my most effective marketing strategy. Through referrals and networking, I have raised awareness, gained support, and navigated challenges successfully. Providing excellent service and fostering loyalty have also contributed to the growth of my business.
What's your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?
My best advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs is to believe in yourself. Trust your abilities and have confidence in your ideas and dreams. No one will value your money and work as passionately as you will. Take the initiative to invest in yourself and your business. Take risks, be determined, and be willing to put in the effort required to succeed.
Opportunities can arise unexpectedly, and it's important to be open and receptive to them. Stay curious and explore new possibilities. Don't be afraid to reach out to contacts, network, and seek support from like-minded individuals who can help you along your journey.
Remember that the early stages of starting a business can be challenging, and setbacks may occur. Stay resilient, learn from your experiences, and adapt as necessary. Believe in your vision and stay focused on your goals, even in the face of obstacles.
Surround yourself with positivity and seek inspiration from successful entrepreneurs who have gone through similar experiences. Continuously educate yourself, stay up-to-date with industry trends, and embrace continuous learning.
Ultimately, success as an entrepreneur often starts with believing in yourself and having the determination to turn your dreams into reality. Trust your instincts, take calculated risks, and persevere through the ups and downs. With passion, dedication, and self-belief, you can overcome challenges and achieve your goals.
What's your favorite app, blog, and book? Why?
Recently I have published my own book, co-Authoring it with Vinay Gandhi "Synergy: A synopsis of an elite business partnership" appeals to you. This book offers a captivating exploration of two successful entrepreneurs from different backgrounds coming together to form a powerful business partnership. It delves into their individual journeys, experiences, and lessons learned, showcasing the challenges and triumphs they faced along the way.
What sets this book apart is its comprehensive nature. It not only provides insights into what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur but also offers guidance on managing and nurturing fruitful business partnerships. By sharing real-life events and experiences, the book becomes relatable and engaging, capturing the reader's interest. It combines emotions, practical experiences, and life lessons, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with readers on both an intellectual and emotional level.
The title itself, "Synergy: A synopsis of an elite business partnership," is intriguing and suggests a deep exploration of the dynamics and potential of successful collaborations. This can be particularly inspiring for aspiring entrepreneurs and those interested in developing strong partnerships in the business world.
Overall, "Synergy" appears to provide valuable insights and a unique perspective on entrepreneurship and building successful business alliances. However, remember that personal preferences may vary, and it's always beneficial to explore a diverse range of books, apps, and blogs to find the ones that align with your specific interests and goals.
What's your favorite business tool or resource? Why?
One highly useful business tool or resource is customer relationship management (CRM) software. CRM software is designed to help businesses manage their interactions and relationships with customers, streamline sales processes, and enhance overall customer satisfaction. It provides a centralized platform for storing customer data, tracking interactions, and managing sales pipelines.
Who is your business role model? Why?
My business role model is H. H. Sheikh Mohammed, the Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and the ruler of Dubai. I admire his visionary leadership and his ability to drive innovation and development in the region. Meeting him would be a great honor as it would provide an opportunity to discuss my own projects and initiatives related to environmental protection and studies on human DNA, which I am deeply passionate about. Graduating in genetics has fueled my desire to make a positive impact in these areas, and having the chance to share my ideas and seek his guidance would be truly inspiring. H. H. Sheikh Mohammed's achievements and dedication to progress make him an ideal role model for aspiring entrepreneurs like myself.
How do you balance work and life?
Balancing work and life can be challenging, but it is possible and essential for overall well-being. While it may be difficult to juggle family and work commitments, finding a balance can make you more organized and teach you valuable skills in handling challenging situations. It allows you to be more alert and attentive, despite the limited time available in a day. While it may seem like an impossible task, I believe that being able to balance work and life is a blessing, especially for women who often take on multiple roles. It requires prioritization, effective time management, and a supportive environment, but achieving that balance can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment in both personal and professional aspects of life.
What’s your favorite way to decompress?
My favorite way to decompress is by spending time in nature. Whether it's going for a walk in the park, hiking in the mountains, or simply sitting by the beach, being surrounded by nature has a soothing and rejuvenating effect on me. The fresh air, the peaceful surroundings, and the beauty of the natural world help me relax, clear my mind, and find inner peace.
What do you have planned for the next six months?
In the next six months, my primary focus will be on ensuring the stability and growth of my company, INAS ExIm. While the situation in Ukraine was challenging due to the war and the difficulties in exporting goods, I quickly adapted and sought alternative suppliers from Europe and other regions. This proactive approach allowed me to secure new sources of supplies and keep the business running, even during a time of uncertainty.
I have been working on diversifying our product range by obtaining supplies from India, closing deals with UAE producers, and exploring opportunities in Europe. This not only helped us overcome the temporary export challenges but also opened up new avenues for growth and expansion.
Although Ukraine has resumed exporting, I believe in keeping my options open to maintain stability and secure the future of my company. I will continue to support Ukraine exports, but I also recognize the importance of having alternative options to mitigate any potential risks or disruptions in the future.
During the next six months, I will focus on strengthening my technical knowledge of products, expanding my network of contacts, and staying updated on market trends and developments. By remaining adaptable and vigilant, I aim to navigate any challenges that may arise and ensure the continued success of INAS ExIm.
How can our readers connect with you?
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadiya-albishchenko-3474b739/
https://www.facebook.com/nadiya.albishchenko/