It’s never too late: When recognizing potential leads to new beginnings and great achievements

What happens when we truly listen to our people and recognize the hidden potential within them?  That’s a question we often ask ourselves when reflecting on the growth of the company and the individuals who shape it.  At Enlight, we believe that real growth happens naturally when people feel trusted, supported, and encouraged to explore their ambitions. Our colleague Nevena’s story is a wonderful example of that. She joined Enlight seven years ago as a German language teacher, and today, she leads our HR team. Her journey reminds us that careers don’t always follow a straight line, and sometimes, the most rewarding paths are the ones we never planned to take.

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From teacher to HR – Nevena’s beginnings at Enlight

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What was your first impression of Enlight, and what made you decide to join the team? Did you ever imagine your career would evolve the way it has?

I’m a German language teacher by profession, and I came across a job ad where Enlight was looking for someone to help developers improve their communication in German. I actually heard about it through a colleague’s recommendation.
At the time, I was working as an office assistant in another IT company, but I missed using German in my everyday work. The part-time schedule – five hours a day – was perfect for me back then as a mom of two small kids. I never imagined that four years later, I’d be working in HR.

A turning point – how did the transition happen? What helped people at Enlight recognize your potential for this new role?

Around that time, there were some internal changes, and two HR colleagues moved on to new opportunities. There was a need for additional support, and our then-HR Manager, Branko, invited me to join the team as an HR Generalist. I think what helped was my previous experience with employee administration, my involvement in organizing events during my student years, and simply my curiosity and openness to learning new things.

What experiences motivated you to keep growing through different HR roles – from support to generalist, and now to manager?

Each role gave me a new perspective and helped me understand how my work impacts both people and the company. Working in administration taught me the importance of being detail-oriented, while being a generalist helped me see how HR connects everyday operations with the company’s broader strategy.
 
In the beginning, I was driven by learning and building a foundation. Later, I wanted to influence decisions and create changes that improve employee experience.
Today, what drives me most is connecting people and businesses – creating processes and strategies that shape our culture and help people grow long-term.

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Support that makes a difference

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In what ways has the company supported you along the way? Which Enlight values have meant the most to your growth?

The biggest support has been the trust I’ve received from management and colleagues, and the opportunity to show what I can do. I’m especially grateful to my mentor, Branko, who’s always been generous with his knowledge and built such a strong HR team. That really reflects Enlight’s core values – authentic teamwork, knowledge sharing, and meaningful relationships.

Even today, I feel that same support – time to learn, space to grow, and trust that truly makes a difference.

What personal growth or mindset change stands out the most from your seven years at Enlight?

“Why before how.”

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Early in my career, I used to focus on how to get things done. Over time, I learned to start with why – why we’re doing something and what we want to achieve. Only then comes the how. That change in perspective helped me see the bigger picture and think more strategically.

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Embracing change as part of the journey

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Looking back from where you started to where you are now, what are you most proud of?

I’m proud of how I’ve embraced change. It’s not always easy – change can bring uncertainty or fear – but I’ve learned not only to accept it, but to recognize when it’s necessary for growth.

What message would you share with colleagues who are just starting or looking to grow within the company?

I’d encourage anyone who feels the urge to try something new to just go for it. Learning and growth often begin the moment we step outside our comfort zone.
Enlight gives you the space and support to develop, but it’s on us to take ownership – to be proactive, ask questions, seek help, and share ideas.

Many of us have already walked that path, and we know how much it means to have a team behind you. I found that here at Enlight.

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Nevena’s story shows that growth can happen at any point in your career – all it takes is an environment that recognizes potential and gives people the freedom to explore it. At Enlight, we believe the best time to grow is today – not tomorrow or “someday.” Sometimes, one decision, one conversation, or one new challenge can open the door to a completely new chapter. Because when people grow, the company grows too.

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