Speaking at the Women's Innovation Network

As a female entrepreneur, I am passionate about helping other women start their own business and follow their dreams.

So, I was pleased when the Women's Innovation Network (WIN) – a networking group dedicated to fostering business growth for women entrepreneurs through innovation, inclusion and inspiration in a positive and ethical environment – invited me to speak about my experiences.

About 15 women entrepreneurs gathered on October 18 at Furla, a luxury handbag store on Oak Street in Chicago.

During my presentation, I spoke about how I started Russian Pointe as a young college student, going door to door to dancewear retail stores selling pointe shoes manufactured in Russia. From its modest beginnings, Russian Pointe has become one of the most well respected dance brands in the United States. Over the company's first 15 years, I have learned how important it is for business owners to adapt in response to customers’ needs and to continually use our creativity to innovate and develop.

“Aleksandra is a star! She gave a warm and heartfelt talk to the Women's Innovation Network on obstacles she has overcome in her business and on triumphs she has achieved,” said Valerie Beck, WIN founder. “Aleksandra's message was important and inspiring for other entrepreneurs because through sharing her entrepreneurial journey, she reminded us that whatever we set our minds to do, we can accomplish our goals through belief, decision and persistence, with a dash of humor.”

Robyn Rice-Foster, owner of La Parisianne du Chocolat Company and a WIN member, added: “Aleksandra’s speech was truly inspirational. She had a dream and a vision, and she made her dreams come to life by being determined and believing in herself.”

After my presentation, I met with spoke with many of the women who attended and answered questions about pursuing their own passions with perseverance and belief in themselves. And of course, I also did a little shopping at the fabulous Furla store!

I hope that I was able to inspire some women as they start on their journey to become successful business owners, and I look forward to participating in more Women’s Innovation Network events in the future.