Nikolina Todorović is the proud CEO of Promo Digital Media, where she channels over a decade of expertise in digital marketing and project management. As a dynamic leader, she orchestrates the strategic vision, oversees day-to-day operations, and brings a creative flair to drive businesses toward online success.
Q1: Please introduce yourself in a way you want to be introduced.
I’m Nikolina Todorović. I am a digital explorer and the proud CEO of Promo Digital Media. With over a decade in the world of digital marketing and project management, I’ve been on a mission to turn businesses into online success stories. My journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation in these fields, and I’m excited to share my insights and experiences with you.
Q2: What motivated you to start your business, and what key strengths did you identify during the early stages?
Back in 2017, I got into the digital marketing world because I saw the huge potential in helping businesses shine online. I armed myself with a Master’s Degree in digital marketing from Florida International University.
Early on, I discovered my strengths: creativity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the digital world. These skills helped me stay on top of trends and craft winning strategies for my clients.
Q3: How have your early life experiences and upbringing shaped your approach to entrepreneurship?
Growing up in Bosnia during the civil war in the 1990s, I was exposed to various cultures and had to adapt quickly to new and challenging environments. This tumultuous backdrop instilled in me not only resilience and resourcefulness but also a profound appreciation for the value of education and the opportunities it could provide. Despite the poor living conditions and the hardships of those times, I was determined to succeed.
- I managed to thrive under these circumstances and excel academically as I was consistently recognized as a valedictorian with the highest honors throughout both my primary and high school years. Simultaneously, I pursued my passion for basketball, playing at the top level in the national league from a very young age, turning professional at just 13 years old.
- With success in both sports and academics, I caught the attention of talent scouts and earned a scholarship to attend a university in Miami, Florida. This scholarship not only provided me with access to higher education, a dual Bachelor degree and a Master’s degree, but also allowed me to continue playing basketball at the highest collegiate level in the United States, competing in the NCAA Division I. I was also fortunate to earn a scholarship for my second Master’s degree in International Business Management at the Southern Federal University, Rostov-on-Don, Russia. This opportunity further enhanced my project management skills and the knowledge of the moving components of an international business environment.
- These experiences have been invaluable in my entrepreneurial journey, as they have instilled in me a profound sense of adaptability and the ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. They serve as a constant reminder of the power of perseverance and the importance of leveraging every opportunity for personal and professional growth.
Q4: Were there any mentors or role models in your early career who played a crucial role in your professional development? How did they impact your journey?
In the world of sports, I looked up to iconic figures such as Allen Iverson who not only excelled in their respective fields but also demonstrated qualities of leadership, perseverance, and sportsmanship. These athletes served as a constant source of inspiration, motivating me to push my boundaries and strive for excellence both on and off the court.
During my time in university, I encountered remarkable professors who not only imparted knowledge but also ignited a passion for learning and critical thinking. Their mentorship extended beyond the classroom, guiding me in my academic pursuits and helping me explore the intersection of my educational and entrepreneurial goals.
Above all, my parents were my unwavering pillars of support and role models. Their dedication to providing me with opportunities despite the challenging circumstances of our early life in Bosnia was remarkable. They instilled in me core values of integrity, hard work, and the importance of giving back to the community. Their sacrifices and unwavering belief in my potential continue to be a driving force in my entrepreneurial journey.
Q5: If you could offer one piece of advice to yourself before starting your entrepreneurship, what would it be and why?
Hmm, good question! I’d tell my past self to embrace failure like it’s a secret sauce for success. Every stumble is a chance to learn and polish those strategies. It’s like, you know, in basketball – you miss a shot, you tweak your technique, and you nail it next time. Failure’s just part of the game.
Q6: Could you share three songs that encapsulate different phases of your entrepreneurial journey and elaborate on their significance?
Oh, I love this one! Let’s get the playlist rolling:
“Eye of the Tiger” – Survivor: You know this anthem, right? It’s like the theme song for determination and resilience. As an entrepreneur, facing challenges is part of the game. “Eye of the Tiger” pumps me up, reminding me that no matter what curveballs come my way, I’ve got the strength to tackle ’em head-on.
“I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor: Classic! In the rollercoaster world of business, setbacks are inevitable. “I Will Survive” shouts resilience. It’s like my go-to karaoke song when the entrepreneurial journey gets tough, reminding me I’ve got the power to bounce back stronger.
“They Don’t Really Care About Us” – Michael Jackson: MJ, the king! In entrepreneurship, people might doubt or not get your vision. “They Don’t Really Care About Us” is my reminder to stay true to my mission. It’s like my rallying cry, pushing me to keep going even when others might not fully see the path I’m on.
Q7: Thinking long-term, what kind of legacy do you aspire to leave through your entrepreneurial endeavors?
Long-term vision? I’m all about leaving a legacy of innovation and positive impact. I want Promo Digital Media to be the go-to for businesses navigating the digital maze. Beyond that, I’m keen on making a mark in social and environmental causes. Imagine us not just succeeding in the digital age but also giving back to the world. That’s the legacy I’m living for.
Q8: Describe a pivotal moment in your professional life that marked a significant turning point for your business. How did it redefine your approach?
The big turning point? When I packed my bags and moved to the USA at 18. New country, new opportunities. It wasn’t just a physical move; it reshaped my entire approach to entrepreneurship. It taught me to be adaptable, resilient, and to embrace new horizons.
Simultaneously, I landed some major clients. It was like a double espresso for my freelancing skills. That moment reinforced the importance of delivering top-notch results and building lasting client relationships. It was a game-changer that blended adventure with professional growth.
Q9: If given the opportunity to collaborate with any notable figure, who would it be, and what kind of project would you envision?
Mmm.. dream collaboration? If I could team up with anyone, it has to be Elon Musk. Imagine merging the digital marketing world with Musk’s mind-boggling ventures. We’d create this epic project that fuses innovation, technology, and maybe a sprinkle of intergalactic marketing – who knows! It’s the kind of collaboration that breaks boundaries, sparks conversations, and leaves everyone wondering, “How did they even think of that?”
Q10: What key lessons about leadership have you learned throughout your career, and how do they manifest in your role as an entrepreneur?
Throughout my career, I’ve learned that effective leadership involves listening to your team, fostering a culture of creativity and innovation, and leading by example. These lessons manifest in my role as an entrepreneur by creating a supportive and dynamic work environment that encourages growth and success for both my team and clients.
