Rising Stars: Meet Pauline Stepaniuk of Venice Beach

Today we’d like to introduce you to Pauline Stepaniuk.

Hi Pauline, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was invited to join the company by friends who knew me well and believed I could help shape its processes. I started as the only project manager and gradually built out the management department as the company grew. Over time, I moved into the Lead PM role and later became COO, where I oversaw operations, client relationships, and strategic direction.

Now, as CEO, I focus on leading the company’s vision and growth, handling key partnerships and contracts, and regularly meeting with clients to align on goals and ensure smooth collaboration. I’ve been with the company since nearly the very beginning — it’s been a remarkable journey of growth, both for me and for the team.

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?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road — but it’s been one full of growth and meaning. We’ve had both amazing and difficult clients, managed through COVID, and continued working during the war, when Russia attacked Ukraine. Some of our team members were literally hiding in subways from bombs while we were still trying to deliver projects and communicate with clients. It was intense and humbling, and it really put things in perspective.

Then came the global economic crisis, and later, a change in the company’s ownership — which meant new structures, new processes, and new responsibilities for me personally. So no, it wasn’t easy, but it was never boring — and every challenge helped us grow stronger, both as a team and as individuals.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I love working with creative people and helping shape meaningful, well-crafted products and projects. I enjoy digging deeper into clients’ challenges, finding the right solutions, and later seeing their progress — that’s what makes me truly proud. As a digital design and development studio, our mission is to help other businesses grow while creating something beautiful, functional, and long-lasting.

I’m proud that many of our clients have stayed with us for five to eight years — that kind of long-term collaboration speaks to the quality of our work, trust, and relationships. Over the years, our studio has received multiple design awards, including Awwwards, FWA, and CSS, which recognize both our creative and technical excellence.

Some of the projects closest to my heart are those that aim to make a real difference — in mental health, sustainability, and environmental impact.

There’s still a lot more I’d love for myself and Zajno to achieve, but I’m proud of how far we’ve come and the direction we’re heading.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Oh, I certainly have! I’m deeply grateful to the friends who brought me on board and believed in the impact I could make — and to our company owner, Sasha, for continuing to trust me and support my growth.

Honestly, everyone I’ve worked with has taught me something — both professionally and personally — and I truly believe we have an incredible team.

I also make a point of continuously learning from others: I take a few courses or business workshops each year to keep expanding my skills and perspective. And I’m equally inspired by fellow colleagues from other companies — the ones I meet at conferences or even go to Knicks games with. Their energy and ideas always give me a boost.

And of course, I wouldn’t be where I am without my family and friends. They’ve been my biggest supporters — always there with encouragement, advice, and the occasional bit of business wisdom too.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://zajno.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zajno
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/6439145/admin/dashboard/
• Twitter: https://x.com/ZajnoCrew
• Other: https://dribbble.com/zajno

Image Credits
Project images belong to Zajno