Inspiring Women Magazine November 2023

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Becoming Culturally
Agile
Alexandra Popkova, AWC Bogotá, navigates South American culture
without losing sight of her Russian identity.
I
was born in Vladivostok, the major port
city in the Far East of Russia. Given its
proximity to the Chinese border, Asian
culture was a significant presence in
my childhood. One of the most exciting activities
I could enjoy as a kid when staying at my
grandmother's place was going shopping at a
Chinese market just across the street.
However, when I turned 10, my family made
a big move across the country to Saint
Petersburg. This relocation involved a 9-hour
flight and meant a 7-hour time difference from
my hometown. Upon starting at my new school
there, I quickly realized that even though it
was still within the same country, there were
noticeable cultural differences. As a child, I
believe I accepted these differences as a natural
part of life and swiftly found ways to make new
friends and integrate, a task that proved to be
more challenging for my parents.
Alexandra Popkova
I was still in university when I decided to work
abroad for a while. I began working with AIESEC,
an international youth-run NGO that opened
doors to exploring the world. My first choice
was India, as I believed if I didn't try
new and adventurous things now,
then when would I? India turned
out to be a life-changing
experience filled with cherished
memories and the addition of
two close friends for life.
"When I feel
free."
Alexa and
dance partner
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