We start our Leadership Interviews series with the leader of JCI Europe, our JCI Executive Vice President, Ana Nikolova, from JCI Bulgaria.

Let’s discover few things about Ana: 

“Hi! I’m Ana Nikolova – a dreamer, believer, doer, and proud JCI member since 2012. Currently serving as JCI Executive Vice President for Europe, I get to work with amazing people across the continent to spark growth, inspire action, and build meaningful connections.

I joined JCI over a decade ago out of curiosity – and it completely changed my life. Through every role I’ve taken on, from Local President to National President and now at the international level, I’ve grown not just as a leader, but as a person. For me, leadership is about taking action, lifting others, and creating space for people to thrive.

Professionally, I work with deep tech companies and innovative start-ups, helping them navigate their path – from finding funding for their R&D to building solid strategies for growth. It’s not that different from what I do in JCI, really – supporting potential, connecting people with opportunities, and turning bold ideas into action.

When I’m not in a meeting or on the road for JCI, you’ll probably find me exploring a new country or crafting little handmade gifts. I live for good stories, deep talks, spontaneous adventures, and quiet moments that spark joy.

I’m passionate about helping others unlock their potential – whether through mentoring, delivering trainings, or simply sharing honest conversations. And I truly believe that small actions, when done with heart, can lead to big impact.

Leadership isn’t about titles or perfection – it’s about courage, care, and community. And I’m here for all of it.”

Q: To start, what does the word “leadership” mean to you personally? Is it a title, an action, or a mindset?

To me, leadership is first and foremost a mindset – a conscious decision to take responsibility, inspire others, and lead by example. It’s not about the position you hold, but the difference you make and the people you lift along the way.

But leadership is also an action. True leaders don’t just talk – they step up, take initiative, and act with courage, especially when it’s uncomfortable or uncertain. They create space for others to grow, and they lead with integrity, not ego.

And yes, sometimes leadership is also tied to a title. Not because the title defines the leader, but because it comes with added visibility, responsibility, and the power to influence. A title can serve as a reminder – not of status, but of service.

Q: Was there a specific moment when you first saw yourself as a leader?

Yes. One defining moment was in 2016, during my term as National President of JCI Bulgaria. That year, I also took on the role of Program Director for the Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) in Bulgaria program. It was only the second year the program had been implemented in Bulgaria, and while I truly believed in its potential to inspire and elevate young leaders, few people were willing to work on it at the time.

JCI Bulgaria was still a very young organization – just in its fourth year – and the program lacked visibility, recognition, and sponsor support, even after the great success of the first edition. But I was determined. I believed in the value of TOYP – not only for our National Organization, but for society. So I stepped up, took the lead, and committed to making it happen.

It wasn’t easy. We faced setbacks, skepticism, and tight resources. But with persistence, resilience, and conviction, the program came to life and it turned out to be a great success. More importantly, it laid the foundation for something lasting.

Today, TOYP is the most sustainable program of JCI Bulgaria, with its 10th edition that took place this year. It has received two world honorees and several shortlisted among the top 20 and top 30.

That experience showed me that leadership is about believing in something greater, taking initiative, and enabling others to shine through your commitment.

Now, let’s talk more about the JCI Journey. 

Q: Take us back to the beginning. Why did you join JCI, and what was the most valuable lesson you learned in your first year?

I first heard about JCI in 2012 through a friend – Senator Temelko Dechev, who would later become the 2014 JCI Bulgaria President. At the time, he had just established the Local Organization in Varna and invited me to a business event he was organizing. I was curious, but like many, it took me a while to truly understand what JCI was all about, especially since the organization was still in its early stages in Bulgaria, and in Varna in particular.

In 2013, I became a full member just as I moved back to Sofia. Wanting to meet new people outside of my university circle, I reached out to the Local Organization there and that turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

I found myself surrounded by forward-thinking, purpose-driven individuals who challenged the status quo and believed in creating meaningful impact. More importantly, they believed in me before I fully believed in myself.

My first year in JCI was a year of discovery – not just about the organization, but about myself. I learned that when you’re surrounded by a community of like-minded people who encourage you to grow, you begin to see your own potential. And I learned that taking initiative matters far more than waiting for things to happen.

That first year laid the foundation for everything that followed.

Q: What was your initial impression of JCI, and how has that perception changed over your years of membership?

As mentioned, at first, it took me a while to fully grasp what JCI was all about. My initial impression was that it was a community bringing together people with an entrepreneurial mindset who wanted to contribute to society – mainly through local volunteering and socially responsible business initiatives.

And while that first impression was true, over time I discovered that JCI is so much more.

It’s not just a place where you can contribute, but it’s a place where you are transformed. It’s a platform that challenges you, develops you, and empowers you to lead – not just in your community, but globally. It connects you with people from different backgrounds and cultures, giving you a broader vision and deeper empathy.

My perception evolved from “a local network of active citizens” to a global movement of bold, young changemakers – people who don’t wait for change to happen, but take action and lead it. JCI became more than an organization to me, it became a school of leadership, a source of lifelong friendships, and a launchpad for personal and professional growth.

Q: Can you share a specific JCI project, role, or event that was a turning point for you? How did it directly contribute to your leadership skills?

Serving as Local President of JCI Sofia in 2015 was the most transformative role in my JCI journey. While JCI Bulgaria had already been restarted a few years earlier, many things were still new to us. We were learning by doing, building as we went and that made the experience both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

Before that, I had already have led project teams, which gave me valuable insights. But being Local President brought things to a whole new scale. It wasn’t just about leading a project, but it was about taking full responsibility for the future of the Local Organization. I had to ensure that our work was impactful in the moment, but also sustainable for the years ahead.

It required strategic thinking, community engagement, and the ability to inspire and develop others to take ownership. It pushed me to grow not just as a project manager, but as a leader of people and vision. I had to learn to balance multiple priorities, manage different personalities, and create an environment where members felt motivated, empowered, and proud to belong.

That year shaped how I view leadership to this day. It taught me that real leadership is not about doing it all yourself – it’s about creating something that will thrive even after you step away.

Q: Which specific JCI training or program (e.g., public speaking, debating, project management) has had the most direct impact on your professional career?

While many JCI trainings and programs have shaped me, the most profound impact came not from participating, but from becoming a trainer myself.

The turning point was in 2021, when I was selected as a trainer for the JCI European Academy. Until then, trainers were traditionally selected from past academy delegates, but that year, I was honored to be chosen, even without having attended as a participant. I will always be deeply grateful for that opportunity.

It was a milestone moment. On one hand, I was introduced to the incredible experience that is JCI European Academy and had the privilege of witnessing the transformation of delegates over four editions as a trainer. On the other hand, it pushed me to grow my own skills to a whole new level – challenging me to train, coach, and support others in their leadership journeys in an intense and immersive setting.

This experience didn’t just impact my JCI path, it became a catalyst in my professional development. As a business consultant, I began integrating training into my work, and today, it’s a core part of what I do. Building my training skills in JCI helped me become a more effective communicator, facilitator, and leader – not only in volunteer spaces but also in my career.

Q: Think about the biggest professional challenges you’ve faced. How did the skills and confidence you gained in JCI (e.g., project management, public speaking, international collaboration) help you navigate them?

When navigating difficult negotiations, high-stakes projects, or moments of uncertainty in my professional life, I’ve often drawn directly from the skills and mindset developed through JCI.

From stakeholder management to intercultural communication and adaptability, JCI gave me practical tools that I’ve applied time and again whether leading cross-border initiatives, managing client expectations, or aligning diverse teams with competing priorities.

But more than technical skills, JCI gave me confidence and resilience. It taught me to speak up in challenging situations, to stay calm under pressure, and to see failure not as a setback but as part of the growth process. Through countless projects and international collaborations, I’ve learned how to adjust quickly, navigate complexity, and find solutions even in fast-changing environments.

And perhaps most importantly, JCI provided me with a supportive global network – people I can reach out to for advice, perspective, or simply encouragement. That sense of community has been just as valuable as any hard skill when facing professional challenges.

Q: The JCI Creed states that “service to humanity is the best work of life”; How has this principle influenced your career choices and leadership actions?

This principle has been a guiding force throughout my leadership journey both in JCI and beyond. I’ve come to believe that leadership is most impactful when it’s rooted in service, not ego. In every role I take on – whether in my professional consulting work, volunteer initiatives, or leadership within NGOs – I try to bring value to others and create opportunities that uplift individuals and communities.

One of the most meaningful examples of this was my involvement in an ambitious volunteer-driven initiative in Bulgaria: the creation of a national donation online platform. The platform is developed and managed entirely by volunteers with the goal of addressing societal needs – without waiting for government institutions or external bodies to act first. It became a showcase of how citizen-driven solutions can create real impact.

This initiative reminded me that service doesn’t always mean financial contribution or career advancement. Sometimes, the greatest reward is knowing you’ve helped someone at the right time with exactly what they needed. It’s about offering your skills, your time, or your energy, because you can, and because it matters.

That mindset influences not only the projects I choose, but how I lead them – with empathy, responsibility, and the belief that service to others is not just meaningful, but it’s essential.

Q: JCI is a global network. How has interacting with members from across Europe and the world shaped your leadership style and vision?

JCI’s global network has been one of the most powerful influences on my leadership journey. It has taught me to lead with cultural sensitivity, inclusivity, and openness – not as abstract values, but as everyday leadership essentials.

Through countless conversations, collaborations, and friendships across Europe and around the world, I’ve learned to truly listen to different perspectives, challenge my own assumptions, and adapt my approach depending on the context and the people involved.

These experiences have helped me grow into a more empathetic and collaborative leader – one who understands that there’s rarely a one-size-fits-all solution. Leading in a global environment has also deepened my belief in shared leadership, where every voice matters and diversity is a strength, not a challenge.

It has shaped my vision to be more global, more inclusive, and more focused on building bridges across cultures, sectors, and generations.

Q: JCI is a safe place to fail. Can you talk about a time you took a risk on a JCI project that didn’t go as planned, and what you learned from that experience?

One experience that stands out is a business networking event we organized in Sofia. These events were usually successful and had strong turnout, especially from potential new members. Wanting to try something different, I took a risk and suggested hosting it in a new venue that was less central, hoping it would bring a fresh vibe and attract a different crowd.

Unfortunately, the result was far from what we expected. Besides our own members – mainly the organizing team – only one external guest showed up. It was definitely disappointing, especially since the goal was to use the event as a platform for outreach and growth.

But despite the poor attendance, the experience taught me some valuable lessons. First, that location matters more than we sometimes think. Convenience and accessibility can make or break an event. Second, we had promoted the event using the same methods that worked for our previous, centrally located events. But this new location required a different strategy – more targeted promotion, clearer directions, and stronger incentives to attend. 

And finally, it showed me that even when things don’t go as planned, there’s still value in the effort. We still connected as a team, we learned what doesn’t work, and we moved forward stronger. That’s the beauty of JCI – it’s a place where it’s safe to try, to fail, and to grow.

Q: What was your path to leadership within JCI? What motivated you to take on leadership roles within the organization?

My path to leadership within JCI started at the local level, driven by a simple desire to contribute. I didn’t join with the intention of becoming a leader – I joined out of curiosity and stayed because I saw the potential for impact.

As I got more involved, I realized I could bring value by stepping up, sharing ideas, supporting others, and taking initiative where things were missing or needed improvement. I started taking on small roles, and with each step, I grew in confidence and saw the bigger picture of what JCI could achieve.

What truly motivated me – and still does – is the opportunity to empower others. For me, leadership is not about being in the spotlight; it’s about creating an environment where others thrive. I wanted to be the kind of leader who opens doors, nurtures talent, and builds something that lasts beyond my term or title.

The deeper I went into JCI, the more I saw how much potential we have as a global community. That vision kept pushing me forward from local roles to national, and eventually to the international level. Every step was built on the belief that leadership is about service, legacy, and helping others grow into their own leadership.

Q: How do you keep developing as a leader? Recommended resources?

For me, leadership development is a continuous journey and the key is to stay curious. I grow by learning from others, mentoring, reflecting on my own experiences, and most of all by stepping into new environments that challenge me.

One of the most powerful tools for growth has been travel and international exposure. Within JCI, attending international events, academies, and conferences has expanded not only my network but also my mindset. You gain more than just knowledge, you gain perspective, cultural understanding, and confidence to lead beyond your comfort zone.

I always encourage others to invest in these experiences, even if they require time, energy, or financial commitment. The return is far greater than what you put in. You come back with new ideas, fresh energy, and a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.

Leadership is not something you master once, it’s something you refine over a lifetime. And the best way to grow is to keep showing up, keep exploring, and never stop learning.

Q: Imagine you are speaking to a young professional who is considering joining JCI. What would you say to them?

If you’re looking for more than just another networking opportunity, if you want purpose, growth, and meaningful connections, JCI is the place.

I know that today’s world feels more connected than ever, and many young people believe they already have a “global network” at their fingertips. But here’s the truth: meeting someone once doesn’t build lasting relationships. Being part of a community like JCI gives you depth, not just reach. It creates trust and credibility that opens doors – even when you don’t know the person on the other end, the shared JCI connection and values makes a difference.

I also understand that many young professionals seek fast results. And honestly, so do many of us. But what I’ve learned is that progress accelerates when you collaborate with like-minded people. JCI offers that synergy where ideas grow faster, support comes easier, and your impact multiplies through collective effort.

Joining JCI isn’t just about developing skills or attending events. It’s about becoming part of a community that believes in you, challenges you, and helps you achieve more than you could alone. And that can be life-changing.

Q: If you could give one single piece of advice to a young JCI member who aspires to be a leader in their field, what would it be?

Say yes even before you feel ready. Growth rarely comes from comfort – it comes from showing up, trying, failing, learning, and trying again. You don’t have to have it all figured out to start. You just need the courage to begin.

As Richard Branson once said: “If someone offers you an amazing opportunity and you’re not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later.” That mindset has guided me more times than I can count.

So take the leap. You are more capable than you think. The journey will shape you into the leader you aspire to be.

Q: If you could go back to the start of your career and JCI journey, is there anything you would do differently?

I would stress less about being “perfect” and focus more on being real. In the beginning, I often felt the pressure to have everything figured out – to present polished plans, flawless execution, and always say the right thing. But I’ve learned that authenticity builds trust far more than perfection ever could.

If I could go back, I’d take more risks early on, even if I wasn’t sure how things would turn out. I’d give myself permission to experiment, fail, learn, and grow without fear. Some of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had came from stepping into the unknown.

I’d also remind myself that things don’t have to go exactly as planned to lead to something great. The best opportunities often come through unexpected detours and the greatest growth happens when we lean into the journey, not just the destination.

Looking back, I wouldn’t rewrite the story, but I would start it with more confidence, more vulnerability, and a lot more belief in the power of being authentically imperfect.

Q: To conclude, what is one final message or thought you would like to share with our audience of current and future enterprising young leaders?

You don’t have to wait to lead. Start where you are. Use what you have. Leadership doesn’t begin with a title, it begins with showing up. With courage, consistency, and care.

And remember: you don’t have to do it alone. There is always someone willing to walk alongside you, support you, or guide you – you just need to have the courage to ask. JCI is full of people who’ve been where you are and are ready to help you rise.

The world needs your ideas, your voice, your action. So take that first step and keep going.

If this story inspired you to become a JCI member, click the link below to find the closest organization.