When Anel Imanbay walks into a room, everything feels a little brighter. Her smile is infectious, and her eyes twinkle with warmth. She embodies glamour and enchantment, like a character from a children’s storybook. Anel just radiates that wonderful mix of kindness and strength that feels effortless. I sat down with Anel to discuss her life, passions, and TEDxMarvila.
What brought a girl from Kazakhstan to Portugal? Was it a direct leap, or were there a few stops along the way?
My journey from Kazakhstan to Portugal was unplanned, a real blend of curiosity, fortunate turns, and hard work. I left Kazakhstan as a young student, eager to embrace every experience Europe had to offer. After getting my BSc in Financial Economics in the UK and starting a career in finance, I soon discovered my true passions lay elsewhere! This realization led me to complete a Master’s in Marketing, with Portugal becoming my destination of choice. As it turned out, this decision enormously affected my life.
Were any of those life ‘stations’ particularly challenging – or especially rewarding? And how does Portugal rank in the tapestry of your geography?
Each city and country I’ve lived in, each with its rhythm and secrets, has taught me something profound about life and myself. From the hyperactive London to the serene Windhoek, and countless other places in between, each has added a unique verse to this poem I call my life! Portugal was love at first sight. Its cobbled streets, the ocean, the people who wear hearts on their sleeves, it felt like the culmination of all my travels. Here in Lisbon, I found a place that runs through my veins as deeply as my hometown.
Do you feel your cultural background and heritage are neutral as you move through the world? Or are they a springboard? A hurdle?
I was born in Kazakhstan, where the nomadic spirit of my ancestors still roams the steppes of Central Asia. I’ve inherited a sense of home that transcends borders. Perhaps this nomadic lineage made me deeply appreciate every new city and country I live in while roaming the world. Today, my family lives everywhere from Chicago to London, Budapest to Luanda, and Almaty, reinforcing my identity as a global citizen. I’m very drawn to themes of unity, peace, and our shared aspirations for harmony.
You’ve had such a diverse professional journey – your career is almost as varied as your movements across the globe! How have these different experiences shaped the woman you are today?
Absolutely! I started as an intern in Audit at EY. From there, I moved through roles from Marketing to Gaming, eventually starting my own beauty and art companies. Working with leading companies like Meta, Tencent, Snapchat, Google, and Samsung, whether as partners, clients, or suppliers, has provided me with a truly global and diverse business perspective.
Which part of your professional journey do you think helped you grow the most?
You know, I often think about Sherpas when reflecting on my journey. They play a vital role in helping climbers reach Everest, often doing the hardest work behind the scenes. For me, my ‘Sherpas’ have been my family, friends, and professional network. Their support has lifted me and guided me through tough times, helping me grow the most. I couldn’t have reached my summits without them.
What does success mean to you? Are you successful? And is it true that the journey matters more than the destination, or are you someone who prefers to get to the finish line as quickly as possible?
I’ll quote Paulo Coelho: “Success is being able to go to bed each night with your soul at peace.” So yes, I’m very successful in that regard. You know, I think what matters most is finding meaning, whether it’s the journey or the destination. It’s not so much about how fast we get there. If we can do something quickly, that’s great, but the most important thing is that it feels meaningful.
Let’s talk about TEDxMarvila. Why TEDx, and why you?
Great question. TEDxMarvila was born from a desire to celebrate the power of ideas and meaningful connections within Marvila, a district of Lisbon that has recently transformed from an industrial hub into a center of creativity, innovation, and cultural renewal. I feel Marvila is the perfect stage for bold conversations and fresh perspectives!
As you know, TEDx events are all about local voices driving global conversations. They empower communities to spotlight unique stories while staying deeply committed to inclusivity and authenticity. TEDxMarvila embodies exactly this spirit. And ‘Why me?’—that’s the beauty of TEDx. It thrives on passionate individuals who believe in the transformative power of ideas. If you’re inspired by the mission to amplify local voices and foster change, your curiosity, perspective, and dedication make you the perfect fit for this journey!
VIC Properties – Prata Riverside
TEDx is a powerful formula and brand but is there something new, better, or different we should look forward to in the upcoming TEDxMarvila?
Absolutely! TEDx has that signature blend of inspiration and storytelling, but TEDxMarvila is adding its own local, creative twist. Alongside thought-provoking talks and performances, we’re planning a United Art exhibition – ‘Heart of Being Human’, an interactive showcase that brings together different artists and galleries. There will be even a Premier of a short film ‘Being Human’ that’s being produced for TEDxMarvila by talented volunteers from the film, music and fashion industries: Vyra Sachse, Ana Volik, Vasilisa Forbes, Mia Knop Jacobsen, Luigi Rapanelli, Hengdi Wang.
Explain the theme of TEDxMarvila, and why now is the right moment for it.
The theme ‘The Art of Being Human’ invites us to reflect on what it truly means to be human in a world that’s constantly evolving, who we are, how progress impacts us, why we need each other, and how we hold onto our values.
Unfortunately, we sometimes feel like we can’t change the world, but real change starts with ourselves. Now is the perfect moment to have these conversations. After so much global change and uncertainty, people are craving connection and purpose. TEDxMarvila offers a space to reflect, spark new ideas, and remind us that even small steps can lead to something bigger.
What’s next for you, Anel? What does the day after TEDxMarvila look like?
I imagine feeling fulfilled and energized! Ideas for future editions are already taking shape, fueled by the incredible interest and enthusiasm from both the local and international community. We’re planning more meaningful events throughout the year to keep the momentum going, fostering connection, creativity, and dialogue. TEDxMarvila is evolving into more than just a single event, it’s becoming a platform for year-round inspiration and community building.
Finally, if you could make one change in the world, what would it be?
If I could wish for one thing, it would be for everyone to have kind hearts. Everything begins there, our actions, our connections, and our humanity. In the end, we all share the same fate when our hearts stop beating. So, while we’re here, let them beat faster from happiness and joy, not pain and sorrow. This is what I hope to achieve with TEDxMarvila this March.
Tickets available at www.tedxmarvila.com. It’ll take place on March 1st in Lisbon so come join us!
Words: Anna Mulock Houwer
