My first trip to Kazan? Let’s just say it completely shattered my expectations. I arrived with a suitcase full of “to-dos”: speaking at the Kazan Youth Forum 2019, mentoring startups, and running a pitching masterclass. It sounded like a packed week, but I had no idea how deeply it would resonate.
From the moment I stepped off the plane, I was met with an incredible sense of hospitality. The city itself is a stunning blend of cultures, with its vibrant architecture and rich history. But it was the people that truly made the experience unforgettable.
I was fortunate enough to be welcomed by Adeniyi Adebayo and other guests who were so generous with their time and knowledge. Sharing stories and ideas felt effortless, and the energy was infectious. And those startups? They were brimming with passion and innovative ideas, making the mentoring sessions truly inspiring. The pitching masterclass was a blast, seeing participants transform their presentations and gain confidence was incredibly rewarding.
Looking back at the photos, I can’t help but smile. You can see the pure joy and surprise on everyone’s faces. We were just expressing our feelings and emotions after a week journey with beautiful people from several countries around the world that came to Kazan to share, learn and tell their stories.
Kazan wasn’t just a city I visited; it was an experience that touched my heart. It’s a place where I felt truly welcomed, and I can’t wait to return.
