What led you to create your own digital platform, Mama Petounia?

I love communicating with people. I am an actress and have an inner need to express myself through creativity. When I paused my acting career to raise my daughter, I realised how much I missed this communication and interaction. Starting the blog Mama Petounia was my way to re-connect through documenting my experience of motherhood. It soon evolved into a platform for sharing all my passions and ideas and engaging once again with an audience.

Would you say that your platform mostly addresses a female audience?

Yes, and mostly between the ages of 25 and 60 which means I come across many different and interesting perspectives. I immensely enjoy the connection and interaction I have with my audience. We share ideas, opinions and even very personal thoughts and I hope my page inspires them while remaining true to my identity and personal beliefs.

What is the biggest challenge that you have come across in your career and how did you deal with it?

One of the greatest obstacles I faced with my blog was brought about by Instagram, whereby success began to be measured by likes and shares. Without any conscious move on my part, the platform became part of an endless competition that never seemed to fulfil me. I saw my blog and social media accounts becoming more commercial while I was becoming drained and disorientated. Going offline during the early days of the pandemic gave me the space I needed to rethink my approach. When I returned my content was more honest and straight from the heart. It felt like a breath of fresh air and I knew I had made the right decision.

Tell us a little about the content you like to share, your inspirations and the creative process involved...

I share content that reflects my mood and emotions as well as my interests. This may be a thought, an experience, a simple daily ritual, a meal or my favourite beauty tips, recipes or books. There is no fixed process or structure. Sometimes inspiration stems from within and other times it is drawn from external stimuli, experiences or events. For example, I may be inspired by the lyrics of a song I hear which lead to me recalling a childhood memory. Anything and everything that surrounds me can spark a new conversation. My content is intuitive and spontaneous and I treat my blog as a personal journal.

What do you feel about the excessive use of filters in social media?

I think I speak on behalf of many when I say that the unrealistic beauty standards set by Instagram’s editing tools are the root of many people’s unhappiness. The “perfection” forced upon us by such filters can cause more harm than good. I believe we are all thirsty for an un-filtered take on reality, and that is what I try to give to my audience! It is so exciting to see new accounts embracing individuality and, more importantly, diversity as well as inclusivity of all cultures and choices. These, I feel, are the influencers that will withstand the test of time.

What, in your opinion, are the key ingredients in the recipe for success?

I would say that hard work and commitment, together with good timing and luck are all factors that lead to success. Yes, I do believe in luck. However, we need to take responsibility for shaping it through the decisions we make in order to maximise and exploit the opportunities that come our way. Other than that, embrace your individuality and acknowledge the fact that there’s a right time for everything!

Do you think women offer each other enough support? If not, then what is your advice?

Speaking from experience I would probably say no. I have at times faced negative and hostile behaviour from other women, especially through social media. Over time, one thing I’ve learnt is the importance of being happy about another’s accomplishments, about someone else’s good fortune and success. I have personally set a goal to be more supportive, nurturing and encouraging to other women and believe that practising this helps you achieve inner peace and personal evolvement.

Would you like to share with us any future plans?

In the context of supporting women, I would really love to pursue some kind of collaboration - such as a series of Instagram live conversations - with inspirational women who have an interesting story to share. Ultimately, I would aim to create a space where we can share and exchange opinions, life lessons, emotions, thoughts and feel empowered.

Any advice that you would like to share with our followers?

Believe in yourself and your ability to achieve anything you set your mind to! Where there is willpower and dedication, nothing is out of reach! Life is short. We must live it to the full and, above all, under our own terms. Listen to your inner voice, make sure your dreams and goals are truly yours, and use your super-powers to conquer the world!