Associates Interview May
Hi Phina Don, it's great to have you here! Thanks so much for this interview and sharing your passion with us. Where are you from and what your childhood was like?
My name is Phina Don and I am a Nigerian. My childhood was great as I grew up in a Christian family. I was a very shy person as a child, but my confidence and outspoken personality always showed during school debates, quizzes and any school or church drama programs. My mix of introverted and extroverted personality traits always confuses people, even my parents complained sometimes about my behavior or even said that I act weird, but I kind of love it because I am able to surprise people.
How do you think those early experiences influenced your career journey?
Well… I have had a lot of powerful and great experiences and it really influenced my career journey as I grew into the woman I have become today and the woman I am becoming tomorrow and the woman I will become in the future. I was always goal-oriented and that has shaped my reality and will continue to in the future as well.
Education and cultural background play such important roles in shaping our paths. Can you tell us how your own background has impacted the choices you've made in your career, and how it's contributed to your success?
Growing up in a family that has philanthropist goals and behaviors has had a huge impact in my life and that is why I made a choice to become a philanthropist. That is how ‘PhinaDon Touching Lives Foundation’ was born. My mum always says to me:
“No matter what you become in life, never die without a great legacy.”
My philanthropic nature has contributed hugely to the success of my career as an actress and public speaker. It has opened many doors for me to shine and grow. In a nutshell, I would say, being a Christian and believing in God has shaped me. My mix of introversion and an outgoing nature has helped me to stand out and make an impact.
Career & Upskilling
Before landing in Denmark, what were some of the roles and experiences you had in your professional life?
I have experience as a team leader, project manager, project coordinator and lead/sublead cast member in terms of acting. I have also been a social advisor, voiceover radio personality, event manager and many more. My advice - keep learning and trying new things!
Making the move to Denmark must have come with its own set of challenges. Can you share a bit about your transition here, the hurdles you faced as a professional, and how you stay motivated through it all?
Hahaha…there have been many hurdles - big and small but I am glad that everything is gradually falling into place. Also being a member of Career Club DK has given me a sense of belonging. Having a community can help us get through many struggles.
Looking ahead, what are your career aspirations here in Denmark? And how do you plan to keep growing and evolving in your field?
I aspire to become one of the best public speakers in the English speaking community, to organize more social events for young kids and women, to be a great and powerful mentor and more. I plan to keep growing and evolving through networking and the Grace of God.
Any advice for those looking to climb the career ladder in your field? What strategies have worked best for you?
My advice for those looking to climb the career ladder is for them to stay focused. You need to find good ways to keep growing but never forget your ultimate vision and stay on your intended path even if others doubt you.
Mentorship and Development:
Have you had any significant mentors or role models throughout your career? How have they influenced your professional growth?
I have had many mentors and they have influenced me positively by giving advice when needed and pushing me to achieve more which is the reason I keep pushing and keep growing.
What role do you believe mentorship plays in career development, and do you actively seek out mentorship opportunities or offer mentorship to others?
Mentorship plays a vital role in career development as it provides valuable guidance, support and insights to help people navigate their career paths effectively. I am both a mentor and a mentee - we can all learn from each other.
How do you approach personal development, and what strategies do you employ to continually improve your own skills?
Personal development is all about setting clear goals and having a positive mindset plus surrounding yourself with positive people. My strategy is simple - I embrace changes as they come and embrace change as a catalyst for growth.
Work-Life Balance:
Balancing work and personal life can be challenging. How do you prioritize and maintain a healthy work-life balance?
My secret is being happy - both in my personal and professional life. If you are happy, you will feel balanced.
Are there any specific practices or routines you follow to prevent burnout and maintain your well-being?
I talk to God about my day and make some affirmations to keep a positive outlook and manifest positivity in my life.'
How do you approach integrating personal passions and interests into your professional life to enhance overall satisfaction and fulfillment?
It's hard to explain but I know that my goals in life drive me to be a superwoman and do more than seems possible. I feel that I can only find fulfillment when I have reached out to more than 70% of the less privileged all around the world.
Can you share any upcoming goals that you're looking forward to achieving?
I am looking forward to organizing a social, fun-filled event for young kids this summer in July via SOCIAL HARMONY NETWORK. I know that all the hard work is worth it to see the smiles on the kids' faces.
Reflecting on your experiences, what would you say are your top three skills for storytelling, and why are they so valuable?
They are branding, humor and creativity. They help me stay on track and improve myself while bringing motivation and laughter to others.
Having such a successful self-brand, you must have some great insights to share. What top three recommendations would you give to someone just starting out on their own journey
1. Identify what you are good at
2. Be organized
3. Network, network, network!
Cultural Differences:
Cultural adaptation is such an important aspect of relocating. How have you navigated the similarities and differences between Danish culture and your own? Any key learnings you would like to share?
I adapted quickly because I am a fast learner. I am not perfect at speaking Danish but I am trying my best. There is a big difference in the culture in comparison to where I am coming from but each culture has their own highlights that can improve our lives.
Cross-cultural communication can sometimes be tricky. How do you approach it in the workplace, and what tips do you have for others?
Learning the Danish language is very important to help you survive in the workplace especially when you want to open new doors in Denmark. I advise you to speak as much of it as possible even if you make mistakes, you will keep learning day by day.
Social Life and Communication:
Building a network and social life in a new place can be challenging. How did you go about it in Denmark, and how has Career Club DK supported you in this journey?
Building a social life is not difficult for me because I am very social, so I can easily navigate in and adapt to any situation and environment. CareerClub DK is the real deal and I am happy to be an associate because it is very welcoming to internationals and gives insight to the Danish workplace and culture.
Language and communication barriers are common for non-native speakers. How did you overcome these challenges, and what advice would you give to others in similar situations?
I overcame the challenge by going to Danish language school and I will advise others to do the same if you want to fully integrate and feel at home in Denmark.
Before we wrap up, any final thoughts, life mantras, or strategies you'd like to share with the Career Club community?
Always make positive affirmations before going out every day and pray to God if you are a Christian.
Lastly, where can our readers follow your journey online? Do you have any social media sites you'd like to share.
Please follow Phinadon TV on all social media:
TikTok,
YouTube
Keep in touch.
Interview by
Judy Cohen,
Career Club DK Advisory Board Member
Learning Development, Talent Management, Neurodiversity Specialist, AI Prompt Engineer
Host in Radio ShalomDK
Connect with her on Linked-In
