Welcome to the Leader’s Insights, a place where The Future, asks the simplest, yet, the most interesting questions to the executives of well-known companies, startups and innovators.
Today we talk with Maria Rapoport, the COO at The Island Private School. Maria holds a degree in Finance from the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation.
She also completed postgraduate studies in “Regional Economics” and is a certified early childhood educator. Having dedicated 7 years to charity work in Russia and Cyprus, Maria founded the charitable project “Yutka.” In Cyprus, she co-founded the extracurricular club Gecko, focusing on robotics, mathematics, and art education.
Alongside her finance background, she also teaches economics to IB students today. Maria has been involved in THE ISLAND project since its inception, contributing to the school’s establishment, effective operation and growth.
Let’s see what Rapoport has to say…
1. Do you remember your first day on the job at The Island Private School?
I started working remotely as a part-timer, so to be honest, I don’t remember my first day. However, I clearly remember the day we met with the project founder and decided to switch to full-time. It was during COVID, and since all the cafes were closed, we went for a walk in Molos. We discussed our vision of opening the school in 2024 in a “siga-siga” style, emphasizing work-life balance. But less than a month later, we changed our minds and decided to open not in two years, but in just half a year.
2. What is more difficult: being interviewed to join a team or doing the interviews yourself?
I’ve never had a formal interview. My career has always been about connecting with the founders of companies. We would realize we shared the same vision and values, and that’s how I joined. I don’t think doing interviews myself is hard as well. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people!
3. What do you most value in your employees?
I adore the school team! They are crazy and enthusiastic, yet professional and productive at the same time. The fact that we’re willing to spend time together outside the office shows that we truly are a great team.
4. Which is a motto/quote you use in your work?
If you can change your mind, you can change your life. William James
5. If you were back to the start, what would you advise yourself for a great career?
Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
6. How do you pump up your creativity?
We are very fortunate to work in a school because we have direct access to children. Sometimes, projects with them or even a short meeting can provide us with a burst of out-of-the-box creative energy!
7. What is a talent you would like to have?
I’d love to develop my guitar skills. Singing is a big passion of mine, whether I’m with friends or singing solo, and I think playing guitar would complement that well.
8. How do you balance work and personal life?
I’m currently trying to find this balance, with some success. For me, the secret is to plan your rest, holidays, and time with family and friends in advance. And definitely include sports. This approach provides more motivation and helps you switch between work and personal life.
9. What are the top five foods you like in Cyprus?
- Village salad,
- octopus,
- prawn saganaki,
- moussaka.
10. Can you name your top five favourite places in Cyprus?
- Hantara Waterfalls – especially the trail that starts after the main waterfalls,
- Genesis Aphrodite’s Trail – breathtaking views that are absolutely beautiful,
- Kourion Beach – the best beach, with the sea boasting such a beautiful color!
- Our cozy countryside home in Trimiklini – no comment needed =)
- Madari – 360-degree panoramic mountain views and such a beautiful trail.
11. Which personality, throughout history, do you admire most?
Maye Musk built her career as a model over 50 years, achieving great success through her hard work. She is now one of the most well-known mothers in the world.
12. Who is your favourite author/book that helped your career?
“The Five Dysfunctions of a Team” by Patrick Lencioni is an excellent book for understanding how to build an effective team. It provides valuable insights into overcoming common obstacles that teams face, ultimately fostering better collaboration and productivity.
13. Where would you advise our readers to go this summer?
Enjoy it! You’ll never have the chance to experience it again!
