UACS Alumni of the Month: Interview with Monika Rizovska Tanevska

“Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Monika Rizovska Tanevska, a distinguished alumna of UACS and an influential figure in the world of entrepreneurship and social impact. As the Global Community Director of Women in Tech Global and a seasoned entrepreneur, she embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience. In this interview, we explore her journey from a student to a leader, her invaluable insights for UACS students, and her vision for supporting entrepreneurship in Macedonia.“

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What inspired you to collaborate with UACS?
UACS has been an integral part of my academic and personal journey. As an alumna, I experienced firsthand the transformative power of education, resilience, and community support. Given my passion for building communities, fostering innovation, and empowering entrepreneurs, collaborating with UACS feels like a natural extension of my mission to support the next generation of changemakers in North Macedonia.

How do you believe your insight could benefit UACS students in the Entrepreneurship class?
With my experience as Global Community Director of Women in Tech Global, managing 64 countries, along with my roles as Country Director of Women in Tech Macedonia and Co-founder of Ways2Help and Balkan Digital, I bring a unique perspective that merges technology, social impact, and entrepreneurship. I can offer practical insights on overcoming obstacles, networking effectively, and leveraging community support to drive innovation. Additionally, I created the Goal Wizzard during my studies—a strategic guide for success that originated from my employer branding thesis. This project became a tangible product designed to help professionals and businesses set and achieve strategic goals, which I am eager to share with students.

What message would you like to share with UACS faculty and students regarding your topic of expertise?
Entrepreneurship isn’t just about having a great idea—it’s about execution, resilience, and the ability to turn challenges into opportunities. My journey has shown me that “the obstacle is the way.” I want to inspire students and faculty to embrace challenges and leverage research to build impactful careers and businesses.

Can you share your experience as a student at UACS? What are some key memories from your time here?
Studying at UACS was one of the most intense yet rewarding experiences of my life. I vividly remember juggling coursework with pregnancy, and later managing studies with a newborn and a toddler. One of my proudest moments was overcoming my struggles with accounting—I eventually graduated Magna Cum Laude. Developing the Goal Wizard was another key moment, showcasing how an academic concept could translate into a real-world product.

How did your education at UACS shape your career and entrepreneurial mindset?
UACS gave me more than just knowledge—it instilled in me the confidence to take risks, embrace leadership roles, and continuously seek innovation. The supportive academic environment encouraged me to push beyond my perceived limits, which has been invaluable in my career and entrepreneurial journey.

Were there any professors or courses that had a significant impact on your professional journey?
Absolutely. Several professors encouraged critical thinking and creativity. Courses in business strategy, innovation, and leadership were transformative, leading to my thesis and further research aspirations, including publishing academic papers and writing a book.

What are the biggest challenges young entrepreneurs face today in Macedonia?
Young entrepreneurs in Macedonia face hurdles like limited access to funding, bureaucratic challenges, and a lack of mentorship. However, with the right support systems—such as mentorship programs and entrepreneurial networks—these challenges can be mitigated.

How can universities like UACS better support students interested in entrepreneurship?
UACS can support students by strengthening connections with industry leaders, offering hands-on entrepreneurial programs, and facilitating mentorship and networking opportunities.

What advice would you give to current UACS students looking to start their businesses or manage an existing business?
Start now—don’t wait for the perfect moment. Build a strong network, seek mentorship, and embrace failure as a learning step. Success is rarely achieved in isolation; surround yourself with inspiring people.

What are your future goals, and how do you see your role in supporting entrepreneurship in Macedonia?
One of my long-term goals is to become a professor and teach about innovation and entrepreneurship. I also plan to expand my research and publish a book on employer branding to provide practical insights for businesses.

How do you think alumni like yourself can contribute to the growth and success of UACS students?
Alumni have a responsibility to give back through mentorship, guest lectures, and providing internship and job opportunities. I strongly believe in the power of connections and real-world learning, and I would love to see more alumni actively engaging with current students to share their experiences and guidance. If we can create a culture of continuous learning and support, we can build a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem in Macedonia.

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“Thank you, Monika, for sharing your incredible journey and insights with us today. Your experiences and dedication to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs truly inspire us all, and your passion for innovation and community building will make a lasting impact on both UACS and the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem in Macedonia.

We look forward to seeing how you continue to support and guide future changemakers!”