Daily Inspiration: Meet Jeanna Kotenko

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeanna Kotenko.

Hi Jeanna, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself. 
I am an entrepreneur for life. At the age of 23, I opened my first business – a nightclub. After that, I opened a second nightclub. Then, there was a tailor’s studio, a flower shop, a jewelry brand, and then a beauty salon in Beverly Hills. We have been working for 4 years now, and during these 4 years, I have played the role of owner and manager. I handled all the processes myself, starting from building the team, creating strategies, and even handling PR. Currently, I sold my part of the company, and I want to shift my focus to social media. Now, my passion and focus are on content creation. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’m from Ukraine. I moved to America 8 years ago with almost no knowledge of the language. I think it was the biggest challenge. I started a new business in 2 years when we moved, and at the same time began my journey to become an influencer. In a new country, starting something new is always not easy, but without knowledge of the language and with absolutely different laws and rules, ranging from renovations to taxes, it is much more difficult. In the same way, starting a fashion influencer career is not easy, either. It takes a long time, and most people quit after months of trial and error. From my own experience, it went from the very beginning to the moment when I now collaborate with global brands such as YSL, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Sisley, H&M, Etam, Schutz, Revolve, etc. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Right now, my passion and focus are on content creation in social media. From my own experience, I have come a long way from the beginning to now collaborating with global brands. I also consult and help creators who want to become influencers in the fashion world. I provide guidance on where to start, how to work with brands correctly, how to pitch brands, and how to get to Fashion Week. 

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Never give up, and keep pushing forward. It may seem like nothing is working out, and there is no progress now, but if you look back in 4-5 years, you will see significant changes. Whatever you start doing, it all takes time. Be patient, stay focused on your goal, and everything will work out in the end. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeannakotenko/