About Simona
My name is Simona, and I am passionate about psychology, marketing, customer behaviour, and entrepreneurship. My business journey started when I realised that working for a company did not always allow me to develop my ideas or vision for growth fully. During the pandemic, I decided to take the risk and start my own business.
I first began with a larger international business idea, supported by the Enterprise Hub, but I realised it needed a bigger team and more financial resources. I then decided to start with a smaller business that I could manage myself, build experience from, and use as a foundation for future growth.
What inspired you to start your business or project?
I was inspired by the desire to create something meaningful based on my own vision. I wanted the freedom to test ideas, adapt them to customer needs, and build something that could support people and communities. Entrepreneurship felt like the right path because it allowed me to grow, innovate, and take responsibility for my own ideas. Now I am helping those students who are ready and eligible to take their British Citizenship and Passport. I have created an e-learning platform for passing the Life in the UK Test with games, interactive videos, a fun podcast about Life in the UK, live teaching sessions, and competitive live games between students, all easy to use and interactive.
My fellow ARU colleagues receive 30% off the package price. To express interest in obtaining the Life in the UK Test Pass, British citizenship, and a British Passport, please email lifeinuktestpass@outlook.com. As a student, you can opt for the e-learning platform to be guided through the application process, saving you time and reducing the stress of obtaining British citizenship and a passport with all its benefits.
Watch the upcoming advertisements about the LifeinUKTestPass on campus and Enterprise Hub Space on VLE.
How has Mike or the Enterprise Team helped you?
Mike and the Enterprise Team have supported me by sharing opportunities, inviting me to events, and helping me showcase my business. Mike also gave me feedback as a business mentor and opened doors to present my business to ARU students and potential customers. Through the Enterprise Hub, I enrolled on the 6-week series Freelancer Fast-start, where my start-up idea was created. Mike invited me to be a speaker at the AI Tech for Start-ups event alongside fellow ARU students and professors presenting in front of 60 people. Through the Enterprise Hub, I learned more about pitching, networking, and developing a viable business idea. I also won a grant, which helped me create marketing materials and improve the business's brand identity.
How does your course connect with your business or future career goals?
I am studying a Master’s in International Project Management, and this connects directly with my business because a start-up is a project in itself. I have to plan, organise, manage risks, execute ideas and adapt along the way. My studies in project management, law, finance, marketing, and human resources have helped me understand the UK market, which has prepared me to grow as an entrepreneur and future project manager.
What advice would you give to other students interested in entrepreneurship?
My advice is to talk to people who have experience, attend Enterprise Hub events, and book an appointment with Mike, the Enterprise Hub Lead, for business guidance. Meet fellow entrepreneurial students and collaborate. Feedback is very important; even if not every suggestion fits your business, gather information and use it at the right time. Get your business started from the university benches; test the market. It is much easier to do it with the Enterprise Hub supporting and guiding you.
"Be present, network, adapt your ideas, and do not be afraid to take advice. You do not have to do everything alone. University is a great place to test ideas, build confidence, and connect with people who can support your journey."