Denisa Axhami
25 and Thriving: Denisa Axhami Paves the Way for Female Entrepreneurs
Denisa Axhami
#BOSSLADY DETAILS
Name & Surname: Denisa Axhami
Strengths: Owned first business at 19
Country: United States of America
Industry: Business, Entertainment, PR
Favorite quote: “No one is you and that is your power.
Website: www.denisadebocci.com
Email address: info@theprlady.co
QUESTIONS:
Please give us a bit of background on yourself
I am a 25-year old businesswoman, 2x author, public relations specialist, and brand ambassador based in Michigan, but I work nationwide. I professionally go by Denisa Debocci, as I wanted to separate my academic career and business-entertainment career. As an Albanian-American woman, I strive to pave the way for others to follow. I enjoy building businesses, visions, and people. I strongly believe true leaders create leaders, which is why I do what I do. I founded The Detroit Entrepreneur, a platform bringing together local entrepreneurs for a greater purpose, for the sole reason of building bridges to major opportunities.
What are some of your biggest achievements throughout your journey?
My proudest moment was when I dropped out of graduate school to pursue what truly made me happy. Yes, I see that as an achievement, while the outside world may see it as the exact opposite. I’ve published multiple books, completed two degrees, currently own multiple businesses, and achieved beyond what I even envisioned. But my boldest move was facing the societal stigma of being a “college drop-out” for the sake of my own happiness. I will continue to advocate the importance of paving our own career paths. One example of this is my upcoming feature in a best-selling business series. It will be my 3rd book, but my first business-oriented content I’ve authored.
What are 3 business principles that are of core value to you?
1) Be a leader, not a boss. There is a fine line between a leader and a boss. One core value of mine is not to “boss” people, but rather lead. This is similar to the tale of teaching a man how to fish, rather than feed him fish once.
2) Building relationships. I don’t believe in allowing a customer or client to feel like a business transaction only. The fact that they are supporting me gives me enough reason to provide them everything they asked for and then some
3) I do not believe in overcharging or cheating people for money. I do not take a dollar less or a dollar more than I deserve.
What is the hardest part of being an entrepreneur?
Although this isn’t an issue of mine anymore, judgment is one of the hardest parts in the beginning. It’s a non-traditional career path but gives entrepreneurs freedom that a 9 to 5 desk job does not give. Another challenge is the start-up phase. This requires sacrifice, sleepless nights, funds, and total dedication to the end goal. While it may be exciting to be your own boss, you are also a secretary, manager, treasurer, and every role a business requires to stand. The greatest challenge is maintaining faith in your vision, and it is important to have a support system prepared, such as a coach, online resources for guidance, and a plan in place.
How do you stand out in this digital world?
Social media is a powerful tool to use for marketing and networking, especially free platforms, such as Instagram. Networking as a whole has changed ever since the internet was introduced to society. In addition to an online presence, a website and a few professional photos set the bar even higher.
What was one of the biggest mistakes that you have made throughout your journey and what lesson did you learn from it?
I allowed the opinions of others to dictate what moves I make in my career. After years of regret, I have accepted it as a life lesson. We are leaders in our career paths, and not followers of the directions those around us may give us.
What is your key to success?
Keep your eye on the prize. You will run into obstacles, distractions, and may get lost along the way. Never take your eyes off the prize, which are your goals, and you will reach your success. My end goal is to be one of the noble leaders selected for Forbes 30 under 30 USA. I would be making history for females in the Albanian-American community, break cultural gender roles, and inspire others as well. The process is exciting, but in the scenario that fate takes me elsewhere, I am just as happy.
What does success mean to you?
If 100 individuals were asked to define success, there will be 100 different definitions. I have my own unique perspective, and it may be an unpopular opinion. Success does not correlate with money. One can be rich, yet still, feel like they have not succeeded in reaching their goals and dreams. Success is when one’s purpose is found. I have found my purpose, therefore, I know I have succeeded. My upcoming book speaks on our path to our purpose, and it teaches a great lesson.
