I would like to thank Russian Austin magazine for the opportunity to share my story once again. This is my second interview for the magazine — I gave my first one three years ago, when I had just moved to Austin (English / Russian). Since then, a lot has changed in my life: I have found friends, my community, a church, a job, and a true sense of home. Today, I would like to talk about that journey and about what Austin has come to mean to me over the years.
– Olga, please tell us about yourself. Where did you live before coming to Austin, and what did you do?
My name is Olga Shisler. I am originally from Kazakhstan. In 2018, I immigrated to the United States and lived in Seattle for several years. It was an important period of personal growth and self-discovery for me.
In 2023, I moved to Austin — a city that, over time, became much more than just a new place to live. It became a true home and a place where I could grow. This move was connected with personal development, the search for new opportunities, and my desire to keep moving forward.
– Please tell us about your work.
I have been working in the beauty industry for 25 years. For many years, I worked as a professional nail technician, and over time I transitioned into management and entrepreneurship.
In Austin, I opened the Diamond Beauty salon. We have been operating for more than a year and specialize in manicures and pedicures. I am always open to new technologies, modern techniques, new services, and talented professionals who want to grow in their careers.
– Which of your projects has been the most memorable, and why?
Every project has been important in its own way, but Diamond Beauty in Austin is especially meaningful to me. I sincerely believe that the beauty industry is a serious field with tremendous potential.
For me, Diamond Beauty is a space for both personal and professional growth as a businesswoman. It is a place where I can create jobs for people who want to follow their calling, develop their skills, and become recognized in this city as professionals.
I also really enjoy introducing people to our manicure and pedicure techniques. I often see surprised expressions, hear many questions, and notice genuine interest from our clients. That inspires me to continue growing and to offer more than people expect from us.
This project is about risk, growth, courage, and believing in yourself.
– Have there been any interesting or memorable moments?
One of the funniest situations happened when a client came in for a manicure and told us she only had 30 minutes. In the end, she became so relaxed that she spent almost two hours with us. She jokingly said it was her “most expensive, but most worthwhile way to escape from everyone.” She has been a regular client ever since.
In general, people often come to us for beautiful nails and leave with something more — a better mood, a smile, and the feeling that someone genuinely took care of them. I consider moments like these the most valuable.
– What do you like most about Austin?
What I love most about Austin is the people. People here are especially kind, open, and welcoming. I feel that I belong here and that I have found my place.
Austin is a very vibrant city. There are always events happening, plenty of activities, and a constant sense of movement. I enjoy Downtown Austin, walking along Lady Bird Lake, and the bridges that give the city such a distinctive atmosphere.
I have also grown to love The Domain — a welcoming outdoor area where it is nice to spend time. I also appreciate that Austin has so many churches. To me, that gives the city a sense of depth and inner balance.
– How are you involved in the Russian-speaking community?
In Austin, I found my Kazakh community — people with whom I share a language, culture, and common values. We get together, celebrate holidays, support one another, and enjoy genuine friendship and connection.
I am also a member of the Kazakh dance group Nomad Dance. We have already performed several times at different events, and it brings me special joy to represent the culture of my country, share it with others, and see how it resonates with people from different cultural backgrounds.
Through this experience, I have found like-minded people and a true sense of community.
– Tell us about your hobbies.
I love dancing. For me, it is a way to express emotions and energy. I am also learning to play the piano at Timur’s Stereo Lizard music school. It helps me slow down, spend some time with myself, and restore a sense of balance.
I love traveling because it broadens my horizons and gives me inspiration.
Another thing I especially enjoy is organizing different kinds of events. I love bringing people together, creating an atmosphere, and putting together memorable experiences. Overall, I enjoy learning new things and constantly expanding my horizons, both professionally and personally.
– What would you like to say to Austin’s Russian-speaking residents?
Do not be afraid to be yourself, do not be afraid to take risks, and have faith in your own strength and in God. Remember that you are loved, and that love — both God’s love and human love — is the greatest force capable of supporting us, inspiring us, and leading us toward happiness.
I sincerely wish everyone the opportunity to find their place, love, and inner peace.
Contact information:
Instagram: @diamondbeauty_atx
Tel. 206-257-8196