Rising Stars: Meet Natalia Sokolowska

Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalia Sokolowska.

Hi Natalia, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story? 
Hey there! I’m Natalia, a Polish girl who’s been splitting her time between Belgium and the sunny streets of Los Angeles. You’ll often find me switching between Polish, French, and English effortlessly, just like I navigate the diverse cultures that shape my life.
I work in PR, and my journey into this world kicked off in 2020 with an internship in one of the greatest PR agencies located in Downtown LA. It was a dream come true which must have led to a long-term contract, but then the pandemic hit, cutting my stay short. Despite the setback, I kept coming back, creating content, and expanding my network, hungry for more opportunities in the city that captured my heart.
I’ve since worked for a major luxury house and a number of PR agencies representing high-end beauty and fashion brands. I love what I do because every day is different, and I get to meet so many people. I’ve also secured placements in the biggest fashion magazines for my clients: Marie Claire, ELLE Belgium, etc. Today I’m also helping the first female-focused members club in Brussels with their communications. It’s a cause close to my heart because I love initiatives that showcase women in business and politics. 

Beyond my career, I’m also an aspiring creative. I love sharing my experiences of navigating life in LA with my Instagram community, especially since it’s very much different from European way of living. Whether it’s through storytelling or content creation, I’m all about bridging the gap between cultures and inspiring others to chase their dreams fearlessly. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
What drew me to Los Angeles, you ask? Well, it was a combination of factors. First off, I’m a passionate dancer, and LA’s dance scene blew me away from day one. But it’s not just about the dance; it’s the people, the mindset, the endless possibilities, and, of course, that California sunshine that keeps me coming back for more.

It’s not easy to have a dream so far away from my family, and it’s not easy to be European with such a dream. Navigating the LA work market from abroad has proven to be quite challenging. Despite my skills and qualifications, breaking into the professional scene in a new country, especially one as competitive as Los Angeles, has presented obstacles. From understanding the job market trends to establishing professional connections and securing interviews, the process has demanded perseverance, patience, and a strategic approach. But I keep telling myself that what’s difficult isn’t impossible!

I’m a firm believer that “things don’t happen to us, but rather for us.” I know that the fact that the pandemic forced me to return to Belgium was so that I could grow both mentally and emotionally, as well as professionally. Since then, I’ve been making my way to return to Los Angeles because deep down, I feel I’m finally ready. 

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Now, as I set my sights on the horizon, I’m actively seeking opportunities to extend my stay in LA for a whole year. It’s a big step, but I’m ready for the challenge. 
I always saw myself as a successful women and I’d attribute my progress to ambition and discipline. Ambition has been crucial in propelling me forward and enabling me to overcome the obstacles encountered on my journey. Meanwhile, discipline has offered the essential framework for pursuing both immediate and future objectives effectively. With every setback and every success, I’m embracing the spirit of resilience that defines both me and the city I’ve grown to love.
So, here’s to new adventures, new connections, and endless possibilities. I may be a Polish girl at heart, but when I’m in Los Angeles, I feel like I’m right where I’m meant to be. Let’s see where this journey takes me next! 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natalia_swk?igsh=MTF0eDhibTdkdXFvcg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalia-sokolowska?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Image Credits
@throughmylensepic