Dessi Popova 🦾's Linkedin Analytics

Can you remember the exact moment when you realized what you wanted to do for a living? As a child, I was fascinated by ancient civilizations. I dreamed of a career that would make a significant impact. This led me to study old English and Bulgarian literature, immersing myself in understanding the nuances of expression. Eventually, I found myself at an organization that introduced me to the role of “community management” – leading and inspiring people. How I ended up in a role that had nothing to do with past worlds, but instead focused on creating virtual ones, was a question I had never asked myself. That was until last month. My mind unexpectedly transported me back to the late 90s. I was a young version of myself, sitting at a train station. Someone asked me, "What do you want to do, Dessi?" At that time, languages were not on my conscious radar. As a dyslexic person, mastering foreign languages, even my own, felt like an impossible mission. I recall replying with enthusiasm, "Archaeology. I'm eager to learn about the past to help shape a better present." Yet, despite my excitement, there was a subtle, nagging feeling suggesting that this wasn't a genuine answer. Later, I realized that this response was a shield, hiding my true aspiration. I was afraid to voice my real dream: to see the world and master English, to speak and write as fluently as native speakers, so that I could become "limitless." To my younger self, being limitless meant having the freedom to travel, meet people globally, participate in innovative projects, and make a difference. Now, reflecting on that moment at the train station, I see it as a pivotal point in my journey. It wasn't just about choosing a career; it was about understanding my deeper desires and how they could shape my path. In my continuous journey of self-discovery and learning, I'm now venturing into a modern language: data. Just as I was once a curious child fascinated by powerful ancient civilizations and languages, today I recognize the immense potential for positive change that data holds for our future. And the importance of its ethical use. During my journey, I discovered that the true essence of being limitless isn't about having no boundaries or big dreams. It's about expanding them continuously, embracing every new challenge as an opportunity to learn, grow, and build something better. Building on this realization, I'm now committed to creating a platform where data leaders can share insights, innovate, and grow together professionally while collectively making a positive impact.