4 minute read
Interview with Alesia Fedorenko
By Sanj Saigal
SPECIAL FEATURE
ALESIA FEDORENKO
With over 60k followers on Instagram and a notable career, Alesia Fedorenko has a unique style with adventurous colours that have now defined her brand. We talk to the Russian based businesswoman, mentor and influencer about her journey.
Alesia Fedorenko
CREATIVITY
At what age did you want to become a makeup artist?
It was ten years ago when I was studying at University while working as a model. Then, I realised that my work impacted fashion shows and photoshoots. It was a wonderful feeling to know that my work was recognised positively and that motivated me. Although my industry was very fast-changing, I realised then that creativity and design played a part. My grounding at University gave me the opportunity at such a young age to apply the theory.
Did your parents support your decision, or did they want you to follow a traditional route for education?
I was very fortunate to have had the backing of my parents; they supported my decisions and trusted my judgement. I realise that I didn't follow a traditional educational route, and to have my parents blessings in my choices definitely helped me develop a successful career. A support mechanism can make all the difference to someone as it did with me.
Who influenced you at the start of your career?
Moving country influenced me. Most people believe that the best Masters Degree in Beauty is obtained from Russia. I think moving from Belarus to Russia gave me the push that I needed and, in turn, motivated me to forge a career from my passion.
How has the makeup industry changed in the last five years?
It has taken a giant leap forward. It's more accessible today, so much information has moved online. You can find this information easy to digest, and it's a skill that can be studied on the internet anywhere in the world. New brands and products are emerging on the marketplace, so there is so much more choice. In addition, social media platforms give females the opportunity to use makeup services more frequently. If you had a time machine and could meet a younger version of yourself, what advice would you give?
MAKEUP 101
Your name has been associated with many models; if I asked them to describe you as a person, what would they say?
They would tell you that I love using bright colours and luminous makeup that is eye-catching and memorable. I'm never afraid to be creative and am known for creating unique designs within my sector.
Looking at the images on your Instagram account, I can see that you are bold with both colours and creativity. Are those traits (being bold and creative) skills that you're born with or something that has evolved over the years?
These skills came with experience; time was my teacher. There was a time I was afraid to use black, for example, and experience taught me to adapt and apply.
What was your most challenging project, and why?
The most energy-consuming and challenging project for me is creating an online training course, which is taking place right now. Work started before the project gained momentum. Although it's out of my comfort zone, it requires an investment of time, energy and effort. I'm glad that my team launched it, and this is now ongoing.
We all strive for a work/ life balance; what do you like to do in your spare time to disconnect from work?
I love reading books, travelling, being surrounded by nature. I also go to the gym, box and take drawing lessons.
@Alesia_fedorenko_mk
One of the most striking features of what you do is focusing on a model's natural attributes: hair colour, skin tones and bone structure. Would you say those factors are essential in choosing the correct look and why?
I like using certain types of models; I'm very selective and involved in the selection process. In many respects, the model's energy is an influencing factor.
We all live in a fast-paced global society with an ageing population. But does age have any bearing on being an influencer?
In my opinion, each age is beautiful in its way, and you need to appreciate and celebrate the age you are now. However, I'm not convinced that it has any bearing on what you do.
If a book was written about you, what would it be called?
Alesia In Wonderland.
What does the future hold for your brand?
I would love to celebrate having 100k followers as my milestone.
Alexia Fedorenko
