Thank You For Being Such A Vital Part Of Our Team, Daria Maracheva. We Look Forward To Sharing More About You So Others Can Get To Know You Better!
What or who inspired you to pursue your major/career?
After graduation, my professional journey began in the Russian nonprofit sector, with no initial thoughts of starting my own business. The idea only emerged when I moved to Serbia, inspired by my parents, successful entrepreneurs. Reflecting on it now, I realize I’ve inherited their entrepreneurial spirit, leading me to venture into launching my own business.
What is one thing you are most proud of achieving in your life?
Starting my own business in a foreign country, despite risks and discouragement, has instilled in me the courage to take full responsibility for my life, adapt to change, develop strategies, and overcome challenges. This entrepreneurial journey has granted me independence, assertiveness, and the confidence to trust my instincts and take calculated risks that yielded unexpected rewards.
None of us can achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story?
I spent a year volunteering with a Croatian NGO dedicated to Roma inclusion and empowerment. My supervisor, an exceptional individual, not only possessed extensive knowledge but also offered unique perspectives that challenged and shaped my beliefs. I consider myself fortunate to have his guidance and insight whenever needed.
Why did you choose to be an intern for Educate. Radiate. Elevate.?
I intern with Educate. Radiate. Elevate. because its mission resonates with my values and aspirations. Passionate about education and aiding young people, being part of the grant writing team allows me to contribute meaningfully. Beyond writing proposals, it’s about securing resources to impact students in underserved communities. The chance to blend my writing skills with a cause I believe in is fulfilling and inspiring.
What about the Educate. Radiate. Elevate.’s Purpose, Mission, and Core Values speaks most to you and why?
Educate.Radiate.Elevate.’s dedication to empowering underprivileged children and creating a lasting impact deeply resonates with me. Believing in the transformative power of education, I’m inspired by the organization’s commitment to providing knowledge to disadvantaged children. Emphasizing education as a tool for personal growth and empowerment aligns with my belief that it opens doors and enables children to reach their fullest potential. Volunteering is my opportunity to contribute to the upliftment of vulnerable young people, particularly low-income students, and make a meaningful difference in their lives.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
Volunteering as a grant writing intern brings immense fulfillment as I contribute to a meaningful cause. Supporting the tutoring program for vulnerable young people is particularly satisfying. Beyond that, I see volunteering as a prime opportunity to enhance both my hard and soft skills, refining my writing, communication, and research abilities, which are universally valuable in any professional setting.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy visiting art exhibitions and attending theatrical performances. Recently, I’ve visited a wonderful exhibition featuring the works of Nikolai Roerich, an exceptional Russian painter and author of an international pact for the protection of artistic and academic institutions and historical sites. His contributions were so notable that he was nominated several times for the Nobel Peace Prize. In addition to my passion for art, I also love winter sports, particularly alpine skiing. I first tried it a couple of years ago and have made it a yearly tradition since. This winter, I went skiing on Mount Elbrus, the highest mountain in Europe, which offers breathtaking views. For me, skiing serves as therapy, providing a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Tell us about an amazing trip you took. Where did you go and what did you enjoy most?
A couple of years ago, I traveled to Morocco with friends, experiencing delightful surprises from meeting locals on the plane to savoring the best couscous in Meknes. Our adventure covered five cities, each offering unique flavors, from the merging seas in Tangier to the fairytale atmosphere in Chefchaouen. In Fez, we navigated the labyrinth of the medina, a historic town filled with artisan shops, fountains, palaces, and mosques.
Is there a particular book that made a significant impact on you? What is it and why did it resonate with you?
I would highlight Nassim Taleb’s book, The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable. I read it in 2020, and what struck me was how subsequent events, notably the COVID-19 pandemic, validated Taleb’s theory. The book speaks of events that are highly improbable and possess three key characteristics: they are unpredictable, they have a significant impact, and, post-event, we seek explanations that make them seem less random. Despite the inherent unpredictability of Black Swan events, I like Taleb’s idea that one should cultivate resilience to negative occurrences while capitalizing on positive ones.
Please share your favorite Life Lesson quote. How is it relevant to your life?
My favorite life lesson is Woody Allen’s quote: “If you want to make God laugh, tell Him about your plans.” This mirrors my diverse life experiences, from growing up in Russia to volunteering in Croatia and now residing in Serbia, highlighting the unexpected turns that shaped my journey. Transitioning from the nonprofit sector to the business world, it underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in facing unforeseen challenges and opportunities.
