Interview with president Monika Ruseva
Empowering Voices, Creating Impact: A New Chapter for The NETWORK
Interview with Monika Ruseva, President of The NETWORK
You have just been elected as the new President of The Network. Can you please introduce yourself and share a bit about your professional background?
Originally from Bulgaria, I have spent the last 6 of my 10 years abroad in Luxembourg. My professional journey began in the legal field, where I worked for 5 years before successfully transitioning into HR within the tech industry. Starting in Recruitment, I’ve progressed to focus on program management and leadership development in the MBA space. Currently, I design and oversee a 3-year business rotational program for recent MBA graduates in my company.
Having experienced a significant career transition myself, I am passionate about helping others discover their true calling and navigate career changes. This led me to become a mentor with Mentor the Young Bulgaria, a three-month program dedicated to empowering young adults (18-25) through professional mentorship.
An avid learner, I actively invest in personal and professional growth through Luxembourg networking events and round tables, growth-focused podcasts, and my love of reading – particularly in personal development, business, and strategy.
What inspired you to join The Network?
My drive to join The NETWORK stems from my passion for supporting women in their personal and professional journeys, and the association’s values deeply resonate with me. While The NETWORK has built a powerful platform for meaningful connections over its 30-year history of amplifying women’s voices, there remains significant opportunity for growth. I believe we can further address key challenges women face locally by strengthening our dialogue with governmental institutions, business partners, and international organizations. There is immense potential for driving growth initiatives and making a positive impact in the community.
As the new President, what are your key priorities for The Network in the coming years? Are there any new initiatives or areas of focus you would like to introduce?
The NETWORK has a well-established brand in Luxembourg, but we must ensure we remain current and responsive to evolving social and professional environments. As the new President, my key priorities include raising the association’s profile through increased media presence, delivering highly valuable and insightful events, and strengthening engagement with local communities. Expanding our network and building new partnerships with both local and global associations will be central to our strategy moving forward. Equally important is establishing The NETWORK as a key voice in Luxembourg’s diversity and inclusion conversations, while building stronger collaborations across the ecosystem – from major market players to startups and public organizations – to create lasting value.
In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges professional women face today, and how can The Network help address them?
While progress has been made, professional women today face several significant challenges, and Luxembourg adds some additional ones due to the peculiarities of the local market. Topics such as navigating the labour market and entrepreneurial scene, career advancement, gender pay gap, workplace bias, and building professional networks remain key challenges here. There is a real opportunity for associations to step up and drive these conversations more actively through dedicated upskilling programs, leadership workshops, and advocacy initiatives to make a positive impact in the community.
How can women who are new to Luxembourg or just starting their careers benefit from joining The Network?
The NETWORK has been a safe space for women to bring their voice forward and find support in navigating their personal and professional lives. For years, THE NETWORK has stood at the forefront of professional advancement for women in Luxembourg. What sets us apart is our inclusive approach – welcoming talented women across all sectors, expertise levels, and career stages. Through the unwavering commitment of our Board and members, we’ve cultivated a dynamic community that opens doors, creates opportunities, and empowers women to achieve their professional aspirations.
The Association stands out as a vibrant community where Luxembourg’s professional women can forge meaningful connections and thrive. What makes us particularly valuable is the diversity of perspectives and experiences shared by our members, combined with a robust calendar of events that blend career advancement with holistic development. Whether you’re seeking knowledge exchange, professional growth, or networking opportunities, our platform delivers on all fronts.
Finally, what message would you like to share with the members as you step into this role?
I’m thrilled to start this journey with you as the next President of The NETWORK! My priority is being an accessible, hands-on President who truly understands what matters to our members. That’s why, starting this May, I’m launching monthly President’s Office Hours – a casual space for us to connect, share ideas, and turn your input into action.
The NETWORK thrives when we support each other, and I’m committed to helping each member succeed. I can’t wait to meet you all and work together to create even more opportunities for women of all ages, nationalities, and professional backgrounds across Luxembourg. Let’s make great things happen!