Welcome to Leader’s Insights, a place where The Future asks the simplest, yet, most interesting questions to the executives of well-known companies, startups, and innovators.
This time, we have Evangelina Fysa—an entrepreneur blending creative and technical expertise—founder of Bungálow 28, a 360° marketing agency serving luxury, fashion, art, and cultural brands, and co-founder of the sustainable fashion label Tallulah.
With verticals spanning Innovation and Tech, Brand and Content, and Media and Culture, Bungálow 28 is driven by a vision to empower imagination through cutting-edge experiences. By 2024, the agency had achieved significant international growth, collaborating with clients worldwide and joining BoF Careers in partnership with The Business of Fashion.
Evangelina’s sustainable fashion label, Tallulah, has been recognized for its pioneering initiatives. In October 2023, she and her mother—her co-founder—were honored with the MF Woman of the Year Award in the Fashion & Jewelry category.
A passionate advocate for social and environmental causes, Evangelina is actively involved with organizations and mentors young entrepreneurs and students. She is also a public speaker, sharing insights on topics such as “Traditional Fashion Marketing Versus Tech Acceleration” (Reflect Festival) and the “Power of Failure” (Fck Up Nights Limassol). Fluent in French, English, and Greek, Evangelina is committed to bridging the gap between technology and creativity in the industries she targets.
Let’s see what Evangelina has to say…
1. Do you remember your first day on the job at Bungalow 28?
I absolutely remember my first day with Bungalow 28. It was the summer of 2021, and I had just quit my job to embark on this journey. I was sitting in my living room with my laptop, about to launch the website I had developed myself. I remember feeling a mix of excitement and fear—fear of the unknown, the potential for criticism, the risks, and the uncertainty of the future.
One thought that inspired me during those moments of doubt comes from The Way of the Seal, where Mark Divine writes about the fear of one day facing God and hearing, “This is who you could have become.” That idea—that we owe it to ourselves to fully realize our potential—stayed with me. Fear wasn’t there to stop me; it was there to show me I was stepping into something bigger.
The early days were challenging, especially managing cash flow and the uncertainties of building something from scratch. But I never looked back. Starting Bungalow 28 was the best leap of faith I’ve ever taken, and it’s shaped me into the person—and woman—I am today.
2. What is more difficult: being interviewed to join a team or doing the interviews yourself?
Both have their challenges but in very different ways.
Being interviewed to join a team is a vulnerable moment—you’re putting yourself out there, hoping your skills, values, and vision align with what the company is looking for. It’s a mix of excitement and nerves because the outcome isn’t fully in your control. And there’s always that underlying fear of rejection, which is just human nature.
For me, though, conducting interviews is more difficult. I don’t like the word “employees”—I see the people on my team as team members. When I interview, I’m looking for someone who shares our vision and genuinely wants to contribute to what we’re building. It’s not just about hiring talent; it’s about finding the right person to grow with us and succeed.
That’s why I find leading interviews so impactful, but also more challenging.
3. What do you most value in your employees?
What I value most in my team members is honesty and transparency. These qualities create a foundation of trust, which is essential for any team to thrive. When someone is open about their challenges, ideas, or even mistakes, it fosters a collaborative environment where we can support one another and find solutions together.
Transparency also ensures that everyone is aligned and working toward the same goals. It eliminates unnecessary guesswork or miscommunication, which can hinder progress. I believe that operating with honesty not only strengthens our internal relationships but also reflects in the quality of work we deliver to our clients.
4. Which is a motto/quote you use in your work?
One thing I always say is, “There’s always a solution—not just at work, but in life.”
It’s not just a saying for me; it’s a mindset that shapes how I approach challenges. Whether it’s a complex work problem or a personal hurdle, I truly believe there’s always a way forward. It’s about staying resourceful, open-minded, and determined to find that path, no matter how difficult it may seem.
This perspective helps me and those around me navigate obstacles with confidence and creativity. Hardships are inevitable, but it’s our perspective on them that truly makes the difference.
5. If you were back to the start, what would you advise yourself for a great career?
If I were back at the start, this is what I would say to my younger self: “Nothing worth having comes easy.” There will be moments when you’ll feel like giving up, but you need to keep going. Keep working hard, and do so in silence. Stay grounded, humble, and open. Don’t let rejection discourage you—it’s just part of the process.
Even when it feels like your efforts are going unnoticed or wasted, trust that they’re not. Every bit of hard work is building toward something bigger, even if you can’t see it yet. One day, all that persistence will pay off in ways you never imagined.
This is exactly what I’ll tell my kids one day because it’s a truth I’ve lived and deeply believe in.
6. How do you pump up your creativity? And why is it so important for you?
For me, creativity comes from a clear and open mind. To pump it up, I make time to step away from work and engage in activities that recharge me—whether it’s exercise, spending time in nature, or just reflecting through meditation. These moments of stillness help me reconnect with my thoughts and spark new ideas.
Creativity is essential for what I do because it drives innovation and helps me find unique solutions to challenges. It’s not just about coming up with ideas; it’s about seeing opportunities where others might see limits. Keeping my creative energy flowing allows me to bring fresh perspectives to my work and stay inspired in the process.
7. What is a talent you would like to have?
If I could choose a talent, I’d love to have better driving skills. While I can get from A to B, let’s just say Formula 1 isn’t calling anytime soon! It’s funny because I’m precise in so many areas, like dance, cooking, and music, but driving? Definitely room for improvement.
Becoming a better driver would make life smoother—literally—and a lot less stressful. Plus, there’s something empowering about mastering a skill that can make everyday moments feel more seamless.
8. How do you balance work and personal life?
Balancing work and personal life comes down to managing three things we all have in common: time (what do you do with your time?), energy (where do you focus that time?), and attention. Energy flows where attention goes, so I try to be intentional about how I use these resources.
It’s about setting clear boundaries and making conscious choices on how to compartmentalise. During work hours, I stay focused and efficient to give my best energy to what needs to be done. Outside of work, I dedicate time to activities that recharge me—whether it’s exercising or spending quality time with loved ones.
It’s not always easy, but by aligning my time, energy, and attention with what truly matters, I find a sense of balance that keeps me grounded and fulfilled.
9. What are the top five foods you like in Cyprus?
The top five foods I love in Cyprus are halloumi, my grandma’s makaronia tou fournou (pastichio)—her recipe is unmatched!—kleftiko, shoushouko (that grape delight is a favourite), and of course, I could never say no to loukoumades. Those golden, syrupy bites are pure happiness (though, of course, post-consumption, you’ll need to hit the gym for two hours!). Cyprus has such a rich culinary tradition, and these foods always make me feel connected to home. I could keep going…
10. Can you name your top five favourite places in Cyprus?
My top five favourite places in Cyprus reflect my deep connection to nature, especially the mountains. Troodos and Platres hold a special place in my heart—their serene landscapes and fresh air are incredibly rejuvenating, and I’ve always dreamed of getting married there.
I also love Latchi in Paphos for its beautiful coastline, the breathtaking Akamas Peninsula, and Nicosia’s Old Town for its unique blend of history and charm. But it’s the mountains of Cyprus that truly feel like home to me, offering peace and inspiration like nowhere else.
11. Which personality, throughout history, do you admire most?
A personality I deeply admire, and one who aligns with my values, is Jesus. His boldness in challenging the status quo, while preaching love, acceptance, and forgiveness, is incredibly inspiring. From a professional perspective, his example reminds me of the importance of leading with empathy, staying grounded in my principles, and having the courage to take unconventional paths, rather than simply following what others say or do.
12. Who is your favourite author/book that helped your career?
Two books have profoundly influenced my career and life. The first is the Book of Proverbs, written by King Solomon. Its timeless wisdom on fundamental truths, values, and principles provides guidance that transcends religion, race, or culture. It has helped me stay grounded, make thoughtful decisions, and lead with integrity—essential qualities in both business and personal growth.
The second is Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami. The metaphor of the storm in the book resonates deeply with me—it’s a powerful reminder that challenges and failures are not to be avoided but embraced. They shape us, teach us resilience, and help us grow. This perspective has had a lasting impact on how I approach setbacks, viewing them as opportunities for transformation rather than obstacles.
Both books, in their own way, have taught me invaluable lessons about wisdom, courage, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
13. Where would you advise our readers to go this winter?
This winter, I’d advise readers to slow down and go where their soul needs it most. Cyprus offers something for everyone—whether it’s the serene beauty of the mountains, where you can cozy up by a fire and connect with nature, or the charm of Nicosia Old Town, where history and culture come alive.
Winter is the perfect time to recharge and find balance. Whether your soul craves fresh mountain air, a quiet village escape, or a stroll through cobblestone streets, this winter is a call to reconnect with ourselves and disconnect from the humdrum.
