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Alisa – a Partner in Risk Consulting in London – has a life tapestry woven with threads of resilience, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of new horizons.
Born in Kazakhstan, she spent her early years in a country undergoing monumental change, a time marked by the collapse of the Soviet Union. This pivotal event prompted her family to seek a new beginning, leading them to Canada.
From there, her adventurous spirit mixed with uncertainty has been a constant in her life.

WATCH ALISA'S STORY

Alisa moved from Almaty to Vancouver, embracing its diverse culture. Her interest in English and journalism led her to intern at a newspaper and study at Oxford, where she completed a master's and PhD in Russian and political science, despite the loneliness of her research.
Watch Alisa's story
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In Canada, Alisa found herself immersed in a melting pot of cultures, a compliment to her hometown of Almaty. Vancouver was her opportunity to experience complete culture shock, but being in familiar, diverse surroundings; something she reflects on as a familiar yet novel environment. Her early exposure to the English language and Western culture fuelled her excitement for the move, helping her embrace the opportunity to explore a new world.

Alisa's academic pursuits were driven by a passion for storytelling and research. Wanting to be a journalist, she interned at a local newspaper, a path that eventually led her to Oxford. There, she pursued a master's and a PhD in Russian and political science. However, the journey was not without its challenges; admitting that the PhD became very lonely and felt isolating, highlighting the solitary nature of her research.

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I like the excitement and the change that comes with every day, and sometimes I don't even know what's going to be happening to me that day.

Alisa

Partner, Risk Consulting

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The transition from academia to consulting marked a significant turning point in Alisa's life. It was a great destination, being able to transfer skills from Oxford and find a new avenue to apply her analytical skills. Her work in proactive risk management allowed her to make a tangible impact as she wanted to make a difference, aligning her professional endeavours with her personal values.

At BDO, Alisa found a place where her values and what she wanted to build resonated with the organisational culture. She appreciates the authenticity, clarity, and honesty that define her role as every day is a different experience and dynamic in nature. Alisa helps companies make better decisions; a testament to her ability to navigate uncertainty and embrace change.

Alisa's story is a powerful example of how embracing change and uncertainty can lead to personal and professional growth. Her journey from Kazakhstan to London, from academia to risk consulting, is not just about achieving success but about finding fulfilment in being true to oneself and making a meaningful difference in the world.

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