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Women's entrepreneurship
Jovana Ćirić
1. When and how did you come up with the idea to start your business?
A few years ago, I truly enjoyed sipping natural wines; I "infected" my husband and all my friends. And so, I dreamt of having my own bar and a shop for natural wines where I could promote them to people. Last year, I got an offer to open a bar with a man, and everything fell into place. I'm no longer in partnership; Doliva is solely mine, but everyone is welcome!
2. Have you always wanted to be involved in your current activity?
I never imagined exactly what I would do, but hospitality somehow always imposed itself on me throughout my life. People who know me say I was born to be a tavern hostess :D
3. What are you proud of in your business?
I'm proud that, despite various challenges, I don't give up on the idea of promoting natural wines, and I believe the wine market will soon experience a revolution.
4. What is the secret of your success?
Courage.
5. How understanding has your environment been, and who has been your biggest support?
Given that the idea of Doliva came about when my child was a year and a half old, I was surprised by the support I received in every sense.
6. What is your guiding sentence?
You attract the same energy you put out.
7. Do you have role models who have motivated or continue to motivate you in your work?
Through my previous work experience, I had the opportunity to meet many strong and successful women who inspired me that everything is possible. Thank them for that!
8. What drove you forward, and how did you stay motivated during tough times?
Optimism and faith in the idea.
9. Why is it better for a woman to be an entrepreneur rather than being employed in a company?
In my case, entrepreneurship allows room for creativity and complete business satisfaction.
10. How would you advise new female entrepreneurs or a younger version of yourself if you could?
Learn every aspect of the business and be capable of doing it yourself, then hire people better than you. I'm still here learning.
11. On a scale of 1-10, how challenging is it to be a female entrepreneur in Serbia?
It's challenging to be a mom entrepreneur because there is no sick leave or days off.
12. When you're a woman in the business world, how common are inappropriate offers?
I haven't had such experiences.
14. Where exactly do you see yourself in 5 years?
I'm sipping a five-year-old vintage in front of Doliva with my friends, winemakers; we're listening to good music, and we're feeling great.
