In recent years, the term ,,fempreneur’’ referring to women entrepreneurs – has sparked debate around the world. Some see it as empowering, while others question whether such a label should exist at all. We asked international entrepreneur and creative leader Mila Litvinjenko for her perspective.
”The most important thing for a woman is her decision—whether she wants something or not.’’ says Litvinjenko. ‘’Regardless of the circumstances she must ask herself: ‘’Am I ready to stay committed to my idea?’’ Circumstances are never perfect. The right moment is the one when she is ready.’’
She points out that the emergence of women-led enterprises, even in regions that traditionally placed women within the domestic sphere, marks a meaningful shift. ,,Of course, the starting positions are not the same’’ she reflects.
‘’When a woman is also a wife or a mother, her path becomes more complex due to the expectations connected with those roles. Yet her professional autonomy and personal fulfillment remain essential – whether she becomes an entrepreneur of chooses employment. What truly matters is the sense of purpose and self-realization.’’
For Litvinjenko, professional engagement transcends economic necessity – shapes identity and culture. ‘’From a mother’s perspective, it is important to be a role model through whom children learn about resilience and independence. Today, when society often glorifies the idea of ‘’marrying well’’ or finding a good provider, we must remember that genuine growth comes through work and creation. That is where a woman’s true power lies. When she works, she grows – and through that, she earns respect. Otherwise, she may end up in a kind of self-chosen captivity.’’
In a rapidly transforming world. Litvinjenko’s words remind us that entrepreneurship – whether male or female – is not merely and economic act, but a cultural one. It challenges traditions, redefines values, and most importantly, reflect the courage to choose one’s own path.
Litvinjenko’s perspective goes beyond the boundaries of gender discourse. For her, entreprenurship is not only about business success – it is an act of self-expression and transformation:
‘’At the beginning, my biggest challenge was my youth, not my gender’’ recalls Litvinjenko. ‘’I didn’t even mention that I owned a company. When it comes to gender – I’ve always been against such divisions’’.
While much of discussion around gender and etrepreneurship focuses on the challenges women face, Litvinjenko points out that men, too, can be constrained by traditional expectations. ,,For men, entrepreneurship is expected. No one questions their decision to be away from home or not to see their children often – it’s considered normal. That, too, is a product of social norms shapred by stereotypes.’’
She believes the healthiest path forward lies in collaboration, not gender competition. ‘’For both men and women, the best approach is to work together rather than separately. It’s essential not to be defensive. The statement, ‘’I can to everything on my own; I don’t need you’’ is a big mistake.’’
Her reflections remind us that entrepreneurship – whether male of female is far more than economic pursuit. It is an expression of personal freedom and a catalyst for cultural progress. By working together rather than apart, men and women have the potential to shape a more balanced and empathetic world – one where equality is not declared, but lived, talking us about importance of support in general:
‘’Support is not when I applaud and cheer you, but when we have a conversation. A look beneath the eyebrows is where every attempt at dialogue ends. People try to find flaws in you. It’s very important not to be rivals.’’
In the end, Litvinjenko’s view resonates with evolving dynamics of international entrepreneurship. Female entrepreneurship, in that sense, is ont just a matter of economics – it is a bridge between societies, a medium of understanding and representation, where women entrepreneurs often become cultural ambassadors without even realizing it – through their work, values, creativity, their role is to promote dialogue, innovation and empathy – qualities that are essential in both business and diplomacy.
Her atitudes remind us, the future of entrepreneurship lies in redefining what success means – not just about numbers or expansion, but purpose, impact and legacy. The women who understand that are not simply fempreneurs – they are leaders of change.