Natasha’s story is one of quiet reinvention. She began her career as a dental assistant, a role that taught her discipline and the value of working closely with people. Today, she is a business consultant based in Milan, balancing the analytical rigour of her consulting work with a parallel career in modeling and creative projects. Along the way, international travel and a wide network of connections across industries and cultures have shaped how she sees the world, and how she defines success on her own terms.
In this interview, Natasha reflects on the leap from dentistry to consulting, what it means to build a life abroad while staying rooted in her identity, and the advice she’d give to women pursuing international careers without losing themselves along the way.
Natasha, your career path has taken an unexpected turn from dental assisting to business consulting. What was the defining moment that gave you the confidence to make such a bold change?
I don’t think there was one single defining moment. It was more a combination of realizing that I wanted to challenge myself, grow professionally, and step outside my comfort zone. Working as a dental assistant taught me discipline, responsibility, and the importance of working with people, and I’m grateful for that experience. However, over time I realized that I wanted a career with more flexibility, greater opportunities for personal growth, and the chance to build something of my own. Starting my own business as a consultant was definitely a risk, but I believe that growth only happens when you’re willing to embrace change. I trusted my ability to learn, adapt, and work hard, and that gave me the confidence to take the leap. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I’ve made because it allowed me to discover new strengths and open doors I hadn’t imagined before.
Living in Milan has clearly played an important role in your journey. Natasha, how has this city influenced your personal identity and professional growth?
Milan has had a significant impact on both my personal and professional growth. It’s a city that moves fast, constantly challenges you, and encourages you to think bigger. Living here has taught me to be independent, resilient, and open to new opportunities. Professionally, Milan has allowed me to meet people from many different industries and backgrounds, expanding both my network and my perspective. Personally, it has helped me become more confident and comfortable stepping outside my comfort zone.
As someone of Slavic origin, moving to and building a life in Milan has also taught me the value of adapting to a different culture while staying true to who I am. I believe that balance has shaped me into the person I am today.
You regularly attend international events and meet people from diverse backgrounds. What has been the most impactful connection or experience you’ve had through networking?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through networking is that the most valuable connections often happen when you least expect them. Rather than pointing to a single person or event, I would say that every meaningful conversation has taught me something different. Attending international events has given me the opportunity to meet entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals from a wide range of industries and cultures. These experiences have broadened my perspective, challenged the way I think, and reminded me that success can take many different forms. For me, networking isn’t just about creating business opportunities – it’s about building genuine relationships, exchanging ideas, and learning from people whose experiences are different from my own. Those connections have had a lasting impact on both my personal and professional growth.
Traveling seems to be a big part of your life. Is there a destination or moment during your travels that completely changed the way you see the world?
Travel has taught me that every destination has something valuable to offer. Rather than one single place changing my perspective, I believe it’s the variety of experiences that has shaped the way I see the world. Every country has its own culture, traditions, and way of thinking. Meeting people from different backgrounds has helped me become more open-minded and appreciate perspectives that are different from my own. It has also reminded me not to judge too quickly, because every place has its own story. For me, traveling is more than visiting new destinations—it’s about learning, adapting, and growing through every experience. I always come back with new ideas, a broader perspective, and a greater appreciation for both the differences and the similarities that connect people around the world.
You balance a business consulting career with modeling and creative projects. How do you manage to integrate both of these worlds so seamlessly in your life?
For me, business consulting and modeling don’t compete with each other—they actually complement one another. Consulting allows me to develop my analytical thinking, communication skills, and strategic mindset, while modeling gives me the opportunity to express my creativity and explore a completely different side of my personality. I enjoy having both structure and creativity in my life. I believe that maintaining this balance keeps me motivated, inspired, and constantly learning. The skills I develop in one area often benefit the other, whether it’s confidence, professionalism, adaptability, or the ability to connect with people.
At the end of the day, I don’t like to limit myself to just one role. I believe people can have multiple passions and pursue different paths at the same time, as long as they are willing to dedicate themselves to both.
Natasha, if you could give one piece of advice to women who want to build an international career while staying authentic to themselves, what would it be?
(Laughs.) My first piece of advice? Stay single! I’m joking… well, maybe just a little.
If I had to give one real piece of advice, it would be this: never lose your identity trying to fit into someone else’s expectations. An international career will expose you to different cultures, opinions, and ways of thinking, but authenticity is what truly makes you stand out.
Don’t be afraid to take risks, step outside your comfort zone, and embrace change. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, both professionally and personally.
Most importantly, invest in yourself. Build your skills, stay curious, travel whenever you can, and surround yourself with people who inspire you. Success isn’t about becoming someone else—it’s about becoming the best version of yourself while staying true to who you are.
CREDIT TEAMS:
Model: Natasha Carpenco @natasha_carpenco
Photographer and stylist: Yana Smirnova @smirnova.stylist.ph
Makeup artist: Susanna German @susaann_makeup
