UACS Alumni of the Month: Interview with Verica Gorgieva and Nadica Gorgieva

“It’s always inspiring to reconnect with UACS alumni who are making a real impact in the entrepreneurial world. Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with two exceptional graduates, Verica Gorgieva and Nadica Gorgieva. Their journey from UACS students to business leaders is nothing short of remarkable. We’ll discuss how their education shaped their careers, the challenges young entrepreneurs face, and how they are giving back to the next generation.

Let’s dive in!

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What inspired you to collaborate with UACS?
UACS played a big role in shaping our entrepreneurial mindset, so giving back feels like a full-circle moment. It’s where our business, finance, and marketing journey began, and now, we want to inspire the next wave of changemakers.

How do you believe your insight could benefit UACS students in the Entrepreneurship class?
We’ve been through the rollercoaster of building a brand from scratch—scaling, setbacks, and all. Our experience can offer real-case insights that are distinct from theory, showing students what it takes to turn an idea into a thriving business.

What message would you like to share with UACS faculty and students regarding your topic of expertise?
Entrepreneurship isn’t about having the perfect plan—it’s about taking action, adapting, and never backing down. The real magic happens when you dare to start.

Can you share your experience as student at UACS? What are some key memories from your time here?
UACS wasn’t just about lectures and exams—it was about discussions that sparked ideas, projects that challenged us, and professors who pushed us to think bigger. We still remember those late-night project sessions that made us realize: “We can do this!”

How did your education at UACS shape your career and entrepreneurial mindset?
It gave us the foundation to think critically, take calculated risks, and see opportunities where others see obstacles. More importantly, it taught us that success isn’t just about what you know—it’s about how fast you learn and adapt.

Were there any professors or courses that had a significant impact on your professional journeys?
Absolutely! Our business and finance courses, combined with supportive professors, challenged us to think beyond theory. They didn’t just teach us concepts; they pushed us to apply them in real life. Nikica Mojsoska’s economics lessons clarified market dynamics, Ilijana Petrovska’s marketing insights shaped brand strategy, and Snezana Hristova’s management guidance helped navigate business complexities.

What are the biggest challenges young entrepreneurs face today in Macedonia?
Young entrepreneurs face challenges such as limited access to funding, navigating bureaucratic hurdles, and a lack of early-stage mentorship. The entrepreneurial ecosystem is growing, but more structured support is needed.

How can universities like UACS better support students interested in entrepreneurship?
By bridging the gap between theory and practice—more hands-on projects, startup incubators, and mentorship programs that connect students with real-world entrepreneurs and businesses. Learning from experience beats learning from a PowerPoint.

What advice would you give to current UACS students looking to start their businesses or manage an existing business?
Start small but dream big. Execution beats perfection. Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you. And most importantly—just start!

What are your future goals, and how do you see your role in supporting entrepreneurship in Macedonia?
We want to keep growing ChiaDia globally while empowering young entrepreneurs. Whether through mentorship, support, or knowledge-sharing, we want to prove that great businesses can be built here, too.

How do you think alumni like yourselves can contribute to the growth and success of UACS students?
By showing them what’s possible. Sharing real stories, providing guidance, and creating opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in the entrepreneurial world. If we could do it, so can they!

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Hearing about both of your journeys and experiences is truly inspiring. Your dedication to entrepreneurship and giving back to UACS is a testament to the strong community we have built here. I do not doubt that your insights will resonate with students and encourage them to take action toward their success.

Thank you for sharing your story, and I look forward to seeing the incredible impact you will continue to make!”