Success story - Greece

Bora Dollanga

1. Who are you and where do you come from? Please introduce yourself.

I am Bora, the heart and soul behind Bora’s Concepts. I hail from the picturesque landscapes of Albania, but Greece now holds a special place in my heart as it’s where I’ve chosen to be with my family. My love affair with nature, especially flowers, has driven me to weave them into my art, resulting in exquisite jewelry that encapsulates their timeless beauty.

2. What are the areas of your project?

Bora’s Concepts is more than just a brand; it’s a passion project. Our specialty lies in immortalizing memories, especially those associated with one’s favorite flowers or bouquets, by crafting them into necklaces, earrings, and decorative accessories. Through a meticulous drying process, each flower is treated with utmost care, ensuring its colors remain as vibrant as the day they bloomed. These pieces don’t just encapsulate nature’s beauty, but they also hold sentimental value, whether it’s a token from a wedding day or a gift from a special moment.

Our aspirations, however, stretch beyond jewelry. I envision Bora’s Concepts blossoming into an educational hub for arts and crafts, offering guidance to those enthusiastic about art but unsure of where to start. Our mission is to empower, especially women, providing them with the skills and confidence to craft earrings adorned with genuine flowers and dive deeper into their artistic pursuits.

3. What made you become an entrepreneur?

The inception of Bora’s Concepts traces back to my days at the National Gallery of Arts in Tirana. It began as a creative escape during my spare moments, where I crafted watercolor cards for festive occasions. My academic journey during my Bachelor’s studies enriched this endeavor, allowing me to explore an array of artistic domains from mosaics to canvas painting. My rendezvous with resin, and its synergy with real flowers, marked a significant milestone in my artistic exploration.

It was during my Master’s studies in Graphic Arts and Teaching in South Africa, amidst the challenges of the pandemic, that Bora’s Concepts transformed from a hobby to a beacon of hope. Showcasing and selling my creations at local markets not only validated my craft but also supported my academic pursuits.

4.What difficulties have you encountered?

My journey, spanning from Albania to South Africa, and now to Greece, has been a tapestry of challenges and learnings. In Greece, I’m navigating the intricacies of the local language and culture, all while planting the seeds for Bora’s Concepts in a new soil. Central to my vision is the digital evolution of Bora’s Concepts and formalizing it as a legitimate business. I’m actively seeking financial support to improve my website, making it more professional, where I intend to enhance my online presence, showcasing my creations and offering resources and tutorials for young, aspiring artists.

5. What would you say to all women entrepreneurs that are listening to you right now?

To every spirited woman listening: Embrace the joy of creating, and recognize the potential that arts offer in spawning successful businesses. Bora’s Concepts has been my journey of discovery, often echoing the sentiments of a “one woman show”. Yet, the undying support from my family, friends, and patrons has been the wind beneath my wings. Their belief in me and my craft deserves more gratitude than words can convey.