Sitting on the judging panel at the Kazan Entrepreneurship Forum 2022 was an experience that’s stayed with me. It wasn’t just another event; it was a real glimpse into the drive and ingenuity of entrepreneurs from around the globe.
The presence of the President of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, and my friend Timur Suleymanov certainly added to the significance, but the lasting impression came from the people and the projects. Seeing the raw effort put into each presentation, the way these young entrepreneurs were tackling real-world challenges, was genuinely inspiring.
Of course, reconnecting with Adeniyi, Anar, Jaser, Nadia, Elina and Vusal was a highlight. It’s always great to share these moments with friends. We had some lively discussions, and it felt like a genuine exchange of ideas.
Beyond the familiar faces, I had the pleasure of meeting Arzish Azam and Shahab from Pakistan for the first time, forging new friendships in the process. These encounters served as a reminder of the power of shared experiences to bridge cultural divides. It wasn’t just about judging projects; it was about understanding different perspectives and appreciating the universal language of innovation.
The Kazan Forum wasn’t about flashy presentations or empty promises. It was about seeing the potential of these entrepreneurs, the genuine belief in their ideas. It was a refreshingly honest environment.
This experience reminded me that the most valuable takeaways often come from simply paying attention. You learn so much by witnessing someone’s dedication, their commitment to a project. It’s easy to get lost in the noise of daily life, but moments like these, where you see real effort and determination, stick with you. I left Kazan feeling genuinely optimistic, and thankful for the unexpected friendships and insights gained.
