Interview with Rozaliya Karakhanova

– Roza, please tell us your story in America. Where did you study and work before Texas?

I grew up in Baku. After completing school # 6 with straight A grades, I was accepted to Azerbaijan State Oil and Gas Academy and graduated with a B.S. in Automated Control Systems. I worked as a programmer, including at the Space Research of the Natural Resources Institute in Baku. I studied as a post-graduate program at the Research Institute of Drilling Technology in Moscow, Russia. Following my studies, I was offered an opportunity to come to the United States. I lived in St. Louis, Missouri, where I learned English at Maryville University. My career began in Houston, TX, where I worked in Information Technology for 10 years, then spent 8 years in the Oil & Gas industry, working for various top companies such as EDS/HP, WORLEY PARSONS, AMEC Americas Oil and Gas and FLUOR Enterprises. I was introduced to the financial education industry which I am currently focused on as a Senior Marketing Director with WSB since 2014.

– Was Texas your choice, or is it a coincidence?

My brother, Eduard, a PhD in petroleum engineering, came to Houston to work in the oil and gas industry in the mid 1990’s, as did many of our classmates and family friends from my childhood and it was great to have a familiar Russian speaking community in a foreign country. Family is the main reason for my move to Texas although I quickly fell in love with the spirit it has to offer. I moved with my daughter Anna Karakhanova first, then my parents moved too.

Living in Texas for over 26 years has introduced me to various communities with different cultures, art, and cuisines.

– What do you like about Texas the most?

Texas is a big state that I have found to be a small world full of life, hospitality and diversity between festivals, museums, and music with deep admiration for art, professional expansion, and development. I appreciate that I have a community that relates to my culture while being able to network with various demographics and industries. Alongside many dear friends from all over the world I have been able to cultivate lifelong friendships. Not to mention affordable housing, reasonable cost of living, and no state income tax!

– Do you participate in professional groups? If so, which ones?

I am constantly evolving professionally, some of the groups I participated in are “Networking after hours”, “ALNH (Agile Leadership Network), Oil and Gas events, IT for women, SIM for Women, “NAWIC” The National Association of Women in Construction, Adviser Summit, “WOW” Women of the world”, “InterNations” Houston, “Through Curiosity” course with Strafford University.

A professional group that has truly changed my life is World System Builder (WSB). After working in the corporate world for almost 20 years, the WSB community has enlightened me on financial education and provided me with the tools to help families build wealth and success for their children.

– What traditions and habits have you preserved from pre-Texas life?

Growing up in the Soviet Union is certainly a different way of life, my foundation of discipline, celebration and hard work has always remained. Some of my favorite traditions are cultural events such as “Masleniza”, “Malanka”, International Women’s Day, May 1st, “May 9 Victory Day”, November 7th and many cultural festivals and celebrations. I love attending many great events at American, Armenian, Russian, Ukrainian, Arabic, Greek, and Serbian Churches.

– Please tell us about your activities in the Russian-speaking community of Houston?

As president of the Russian Club/ Russian Speaking Women’s Club in Houston I strive to organize events that promote networking, growth, and celebration, depending on the time of the year we meet often. Throughout the pandemic the priority has been to support each other as we go through life and career changes. We have an outstanding group of members with all types of expertise in various fields and industries, the connections we continue to make are limitless.

– What do you do besides work? What are your interests and hobbies?

Traveling is one of my favorite hobbies, enjoying art and culture. It’s always so educational as well. Some of my favorite international trips with family and business partners are to beautiful countries like Spain, Italy, Israel, Japan, Portugal, Egypt and Thailand. I have an extensive collection of books, paintings, and art and jewelry pieces from all over the world. My family will say I love all friends, beautiful music, memorable photos with family and friends, and most of my activities outside of work revolve around art, music, and networking as well!

– What events do you remember the most?

A special event for me is being honored as president of the Russian Speaking Women’s Club, I will always remember it as an amazing opportunity and platform to connect with many bright and unique women whose native language is Russian. I want to express my appreciation for those who have and continue to support me in so many ways, I hope you all know how appreciative I am!

– What are your favorite books and films?

My favorite Books are classical books and films.

Last years I was introduced to several powerful books:

“The 12 Week Year” by Bran p. Moran, Michael Lennington
“The compound Effect” by Darren Hardy
“Money. Wealth. Life Insurance” by Jake Thompson.
“Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill.
“How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie
“The Innovator’s Dilemma” by Steve Jobs

Some of my favorite films are: “Titanic”, “Spartak” and “Song Without End”.

– What else would you like to talk about yourself?

I am always looking to learn and gain knowledge, meet professionals from various groups and industries and continue my personal development every day. It’s important for me to empower women, inspire others and give back to my community through many connections, financial literacy, and education.

I am currently expanding my network to make this year the most monumental yet! I want to thank everyone that has taken the time to read this article and encourage them to join my team on an incredible business opportunity, include a way to connect with you.

WSB is an opportunity of a lifetime. Everybody needs a chance. The #1 FREEDOM is FINANCIAL FREEDOM! You cannot be free until you are financially free!

We are in the BEST CAUSE with the BEST LEADERSHIP in the BEST INDUSTRY! I am a proud World System Builder and a Proud Campaigner!

I am ready to take campaigning to a whole different world!

Let’s talk about Financial IQ, especially for all women.

I am very passionate to educate younger women because I have a bright daughter Anna Karakhanova. I am a very proud parent because she is kind, smart and sweet. Anna is currently in her learning process how to properly build her solid financial foundation.

– What would you like to wish the Russian-speaking residents of Austin and Texas?

Program Yourself for Success! Successful people build each other up, motivate, inspire, and push each other. Wishing you all to be Blissful, Successful, and Powerful!

Be Impeccable and speak with integrity.
Don’t take anything personally
Don’t make assumptions
Always do your Best!
BE BRAVE! BE LOUD! BE PROUD!

I wish all of you to have an opportunity to learn and grow, set your goals, and have a plan to achieve your goals by daily actions to reach your desires, which will save your time, reduce mistakes, and keep you focused. Surround yourself with others who see Greatness within you!

Wish you the most amazing and memorable year ahead filled with joy, health, and love, more importantly I wish to provide the community, especially Russian speaking women with the resources for financial security, stability, and success. May we approach this new year with optimism and an open heart for blessings, accomplishments, and new beginnings.

May the 2023 year bring you abundant Health, Happiness, and Prosperity!

Contact information:

Rozaliya Karakhanova

President

Texas Learning Center for Russian Speaking Women

https://www.facebook.com/Texas-Learning-Center-for-Russian-Speaking-Women

International Russian Club

https://www.facebook.com/groups/905274183337290

Russian Speaking Women’s Club in Houston

https://www.facebook.com/RussianWomenClub

Consul of InterNations for Women only group

https://www.internations.org/activity-group/4693/wall