“My name is Aisha, and I’m the most ambitious person I know.
I’m a student-hustler living in Russia, and my life is a crazy combination of entrepreneurship and university life.
I’ve turned my journey as a student into a multitude of business ventures, ranging from braiding hair for Russians and modelling to running a catering business, helping businesses sell African-made products in Russia, managing a skincare retail business, and even teaching English.
To share my experiences and inspire others, I also have a YouTube channel where I provide advice about life in Russia and document my daily adventures.
So, let’s dive into a week in my exciting and busy life:
Monday
School is very important to me so I make time to attend my university lectures. I’m an international relations student, and I’m committed to excelling in my studies. I take diligent notes and actively participate in class discussions.
After school, I already have Russian clients waiting for me in their homes– some of these people are really rich so I get to charge up to 3000rub per head. They are always so amused by intricate African braids and I always get referrals so this is kind of a consistent show for me.
I sometimes make hair for Afrcians too, but it’s less profitable and there are other people who do the same thing for cheaper. Some even combine it with making nails and doing make-up for events. But that’s by the way.
Throughout the day, I meet with various clients, engaging in friendly conversations and sharing stories. Not only do I earn a decent income from my braiding services, but I also build new connections– I get to share about my culture and learn more too.
After a long day, I spend the evening reviewing my notes and preparing for my classes.
Tuesday
Tuesday is a freer day for me. I get to sleep in in the morning since my classes start at 11 and I have mainly lectures throughout the day. During lectures, since I don’t understand Russian when people speak fast, I spend that time thinking about my YouTube channel, writing my scripts, posting on social media and scheduling content.
I also check on my retail skin care and natural hair goods to see if they’ve arrived as I manage my orders as I brainstorm ways to increase my publicity. I often help African businesses to sell retail products in my city and I receive a commission on it. It doesn’t take much of my time. I just receive the products and deliver them.
After lectures, I make time for my university responsibilities. I go to the library to read, participate in projects with my group mates, or meet my lecturers to do research.
On my way home, I make a stop at the post office and I distribute some of the African market products to the people living in my hostel.
Wednesday
I have school everyday and Wednesday is my busiest day because I close around 3pm. But that doesn’t stop me from cooking and catering.
I carefully plan my own menu for the week because I always cook in batches. I think of what I want to eat during the week and I just make stew and a few other dishes to keep in the fridge.
This is when I also select the traditional dishes that I will sell that week to tantalize the taste buds of my customers. I make a trip to the market on my way back from school to source fresh ingredients, and I try to prioritise quality because everyone knows my dishes to be top-notch and delicious.
Back in the kitchen, I immerse myself in my own world of spices and aromas. I truly enjoy cooking for people. From jollof rice to mouthwatering suya skewers and plantain, my culinary skills are unmatched. I sometimes cater to events and private gatherings, bringing joy and satisfaction to those who indulge in my culinary delights, but most of the time, I take personal orders and charge people based on the size of the food container.
Thursday
On Thursday, I attend my classes and I’m already mentally preparing for the modelling gig I have after school. I work for a clothing brand to help showcase their outfits and we do a lot of photoshoots.
I arrive at the photoshoot location and today I’m especially excited since they sent me a picture of the summer sundresses we will model. I also know I will get one of them for free.
The atmosphere is always buzzing with energy as the makeup artists, stylists, and photographers work diligently and guide me, encouraging me to express my personality
I really like this part of the work where I feel like a supermodel and everyone around is there to help me look good. Just allow this girl to dream.
The photographers guide me, encouraging me to express my personality and embrace the essence of each outfit. I also now have more pictures I can share on social media, so yayyy.
Friday
As the week approaches its end, I wear yet another hat as an English teacher.
After school, I go to this international English school to teach Russian teenagers and help them improve their language skills. To be honest, guiding my students to overcome language barriers and witness their growth is immensely rewarding.
In the evenings, I dedicate time to filming videos for my YouTube channel. I share advice, insights, and personal stories about my life in Russia, aiming to inspire and empower others.
I also spend time editing some of the footage I took during the week to make short videos on TikTok and Instagram. I always look forward to doing this every week.
My channel has been growing and I hope to be a full-time content creator someday.
Saturday
Saturday is my day for exploration and adventure. I take a break from my businesses and immerse myself in the city. I sometimes visit friends and we just chat over drinks or we go shopping.
These moments of exploration fuel my creativity and provide inspiration for me. I always take a lot of pictures and make more videos for my vlogs.
I also spend a lot of time sleeping and watching movies.
Sunday
On Sunday, I recharge my energy by taking care of myself, and cleaning my space. I reflect on my accomplishments, plan and set goals for the week ahead.
I also go through my school work and I spend about 5 hours of major focused study in the evening in preparation for the week ahead.
And so, my life as a student-hustler in Russia continues, filled with a diverse range of adventures that keep me on my toes. I embrace the challenges and seize every opportunity that comes my way. I am determined to excel as a student and entrepreneur, so I really need that spirit of resilience.
But life as a student-hustler isn’t just about work and business. It’s about embracing the beauty of self-care, exploration, and personal growth.
So, as I look ahead to the next week, I’m filled with anticipation and enthusiasm. There are new hairstyles to create, new flavours to explore, new businesses to support, and new minds to inspire. The possibilities are endless, and I’m ready to seize them with a smile on my face and a fire in my heart.”
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