There’s a bold spirit in everyone. And with a bold spirit comes timeless collections that capture the essense of each movement and generation. Bulova reminds us that time is what we make of it, and believes in embodying the legend within. Our Bulova BOLD Women Series connects you with inspiring women who embody being Bold at Heart. Here, we’ll learn about their stories and hear how they are creating timeless moments.
Meet Zhanna Red; Content Creator at Bulova
Photo provided by Zhanna Red
Social Media Handle: @zhanna.red
Much more than a single timepiece, being Bold at Heart is a state of mind. What does being BOLD mean to you?
To me, being bold means to just be you. To realize that people will judge regardless, but at the end of the day, no one will really think about anyone but themselves. So, to be bold is to put your quirkiest foot forward!
What are some patterns you have noticed that the BOLD women in your life have?
I have noticed that the bold women in my life are very soft. They radiate kindness and understanding, and that makes them incredibly strong to me. In a world where it is so easy to be cold and reactive, to remain soft and kind is something I consider bold.
The Bulova Bold at Heart Campaign is all about knowing where you come from and to have the courage to take a new step forward. What gives you courage to live out your story?
My parents. Being from an immigrant family, I saw and continue to see the countless sacrifices my family has made in order to give me a chance for more opportunities. I have a lot of respect for my parents, and simply cannot let down their efforts. More than that, it is my motivation to keep multiplying what they have ever hoped for me.
Photo provided by Zhanna Red
Everyone’s story is comprised of many chapters, what was one of the most influential ones in your journey?
The period of time between graduating university and starting my career as a creator. I felt so lost in that gap. I graduated from HR – which was a path that wasn’t making me flourish. It was scary to admit that I just finished a degree in something I don’t enjoy or see myself doing…and more than that, I don’t even know what I would enjoy to be doing for the rest of my life? I was in a bubble of self limiting beliefs, and those beliefs prevented me from exploring so many sides of myself I didn’t even know I had. It was at that time, I realized that I need to change my mindset from thinking Iam “lost”, and shift it to thinking “everything is open to me, I just have to allow myself to have it”. That was extremely transformational for the course of my life.
The image we present to the world through our fashion and accessories can help us to feel empowered. What’s one thing you put on that makes you feel BOLD?
What makes me feel BOLD, is that I don’t feel a need to keep up with trends. My typical uniform of jeans, white tee & leather jacket make me feel bold, because it feels the most like me. Working in a social sphere where comparison is inevitable, Iam proud that Iam able to stay true to my fashion choices & not feel the need to chase quick changing trends and consumerism. I believe it is bold to be happy with what you have.
What would your 15 year old self be most proud of that you have accomplished?
Funny you ask this. 3 years ago, at the beginning of the pandemic I found a website (aka saw a TikTok about it) where you can write your future self a letter, and I got that letter from myself just last month. I said to my future self that I hope I follow my intuition to achieve my dreams, rather than rationalize the opinions of others on what I should be doing. Both 3 years ago & my 15 year old self would be glad that I followed my inner voice, and now depend less on approval of others for guidance. I accomplished crafting my own life the way I want to live it.
Photo provided by Zhanna Red
Our timepieces offer more than functionality, they can symbolize an accomplishment, be passed down as a family heirloom, etc. Do you have a story about a timepiece that holds a specific memory for you?
The BULOVA “American Girl” watch is extremely special to me. I received it along with an invitation to attend the CAFA awards in 2022. Besides the watch being extremely “me”, being able to wear it to an event that celebrates creativity & individuality was a very special pairing. Being in a room with some of the best creative minds was an honour, and felt like time was standing still. Thankfully I know it wasn’t, since I had my trusty watch.
What do you hope is the legacy you will leave behind?
That it is cool to be kind, and that it is cool to be yourself. Take it easy, and don’t take yourself too seriously.
