From journalist in Russia to teaching in China to VP of Marketing & Sustainability at SkyTeam, Evgenia Starkova's career is a masterclass of building a career across cultures with intention and authenticity.

This episode covers a variety of topics, from her career path being an exploration instead of climbing a ladder, to recognising and managing emotions in leadership; from adopting a growth mindset in cultural identity to rising above all identities.

What we explore:

• Her journey from Russia to China to the Netherlands
• The leadership philosophy: genuine intent and solid execution
• Building trust in international teams
• Navigating cultural identity across three very different countries
• Finding a path when she doesn’t have a roadmap
• Why she tries to rise above all identities and see people as humans first

Evgenia's approach to leadership is refreshingly human. She leads with listening and empathy, but always delivers results through strategic execution.

If you're navigating international leadership or building a career across cultures, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical frameworks.

In this first episode, I share my personal journey as an international student and immigrant - from being rejected for a cleaning job in Sydney (because I didn't know words like "cobweb" and "skirting board") to leading finance teams across continents and earning my Executive MBA from Oxford.

I talk about the real struggles: barely passing courses, cultural adaptation, language barriers, learning to be funny in a different language, and the turning points that changed everything.

If you're an international student, an early-career immigrant, or globally mobile talent building a life far from home, this episode is for you.

Topics covered:

- The reality of being an international student

- Overcoming academic and language challenges

- Building a career across cultures

- Why I started AZ Dream Studio

- What's coming in future episodes

Connect with me on LinkedIn: Amy Zhu

Future episodes will feature international students and immigrants who've built remarkable careers. If you have a story to share or know someone who should be featured; if you'd like to mentor or coach international students and early-career global talent; or if you are looking to collaborate as a business partner, please reach out!