With a highly social nature and open-minded approach, hospitality is an apt industry for Iryna Okopova – Associate Director of Marketing at Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa. Since starting her hospitality career in Kyiv, Ukraine in 2012, Iryna has worked in the UAE and Maldives before moving to Bahrain for her current role. Let’s take a walk in her shoes!
Where are you from and what’s the thing you love most about your hometown?
I am from Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine. The thing I love most about Kyiv is its beautiful nature which I have never come across anywhere else in the world. We have colourful parks, monasteries, churches, and beautiful architecture which I miss so much. Then there are special Ukrainian dishes that I miss… especially those cooked by my mum.
What is an achievement you are most proud of?
I spent 10 years in hospitality and progressed without any help, so I would say it is where I am now in my career. I also have a master’s degree in International Economics and Business Development and will soon be finishing my MBA too.
Do you have any hidden talents?
Of course! I actually finished music school in Kyiv and play a Ukrainian instrument called bayan – a type of accordion but with a different set up of buttons. So, I performed in parts of the region – it was quite an interesting time of my life.
Name three things you cannot live without.
Coffee, music and travelling
What was the name of your first pet? What made it unique?
I’ve only had one pet in my life – a cat named Masha with very unique markings in black, brown, grey and white. My family adopted her when I was just a child, and she was quite little too; so we grew up together and she was with us for almost 17 years. She was completely different and had a crazy personality.
What’s the best advice you can give our readers?
Something I know for sure is that nothing is impossible in this life. So, I would say dream big and fill your life with beautiful moments.
What is your favourite movie and why?
I love catastrophes, thrillers and detective stories. I would have to say that my favourite movie is The Mummy which follows the adventurer Rick O’ Connell (Brendan Frasier). I was quite interested in Egypt and its history so The Mummy trilogy is a favourite.
International Women’s Day is around the corner. What are qualities that you admire in women?
The first would have to be emotional strength as I believe women are emotionally mature and balanced. Then I would have to say the ability to multi-task. Women can manage their work, kids, relationship, home and more in just 24 hours.
