This vision led me to start a blog that brought together immigrant women from Azerbaijan and beyond. It became a space to share struggles, offer support, and inspire one another. The blog quickly grew into a meaningful community where friendships formed and voices were heard.

As I continued hosting gatherings and connecting people, I realized that my community lacked visibility in Minnesota. We were often unseen and I wanted to change that.

I founded and led the Azerbaijani Association of Minnesota (AAM), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting our culture and building community connections. Through AAM, I collaborated with local officials and received official proclamations from the mayors of Minneapolis and Burnsville, as well as the Governor of Minnesota, recognizing the contributions of the Azerbaijani community.

Through this work, we participated in over seven international festivals in the Twin Cities, organized cultural exhibitions and galleries, lit the Lowry Bridge in the colors of the Azerbaijani flag, hosted cooking classes, and were featured in local media. We also established a paver and bench in a downtown park in Burnsville honoring Azerbaijani community in Minnesota. Most importantly, we brought our community together and created a true sense of belonging.

While leading my nonprofit and learning how to grow and manage it, I met life and business coach Mary Shoessler. We began working together, and that journey helped me peel back layers within myself, allowing my inner light to shine and guiding me toward doing what truly makes me happy.

Mary helped me find joy again, activate my voice, and step into a more confident version of myself as a woman, mother, and wife.

Through Mary, I was introduced to business consultant Katie Ladas, who helped me better understand the business landscape in the United States. Together, Mary and Katie became my support system and the foundation that helped me truly believe in myself and my potential.

As I continued this journey of growth and self-discovery, we realized the best way for me to activate my voice was to share my story and create space for others to do the same.

That’s how the Gleam BIG Podcast was born.

Gleam BIG is dedicated to helping multicultural women in the United States reconnect with their inner brilliance the light that may feel dim at times but is always there. Through our podcast, social media, and thoughtfully created resources, we share real stories, meaningful conversations, and practical tools to help women live with confidence, authentic joy, and the courage to shine in every area of their lives.

So, thank you again for being here and I hope you enjoy every episode of light and inspiration.