Felicia Akkaya is the kind of person who fascinates you from the very first encounter. She exudes a calm, composed presence, always appearing in control—without haste, without agitation, yet with incredible efficiency. Felicia doesn’t impose herself through grand speeches or dramatic gestures, but rather through a subtle intelligence that is felt in everything she does.
A teacher, psychologist, and entrepreneur, Felicia is the founder of the Junior School educational network, a project that redefines education standards for children, creating a modern, warm, and inspiring learning environment. But she didn’t stop there—her desire to support children’s harmonious development led her to co-found Kilostop Junior, Romania’s first nutrition clinic for children, where nutritional education and health become part of a conscious lifestyle.
Behind her slightly mysterious aura and friendly smile is a woman who has chosen to be a real support for the community. Through her media presence, active involvement in parenting and education projects, and contributions to social inclusion, Felicia proves that true success means impact—an impact that changes lives and shapes the future.
Over time, I have been deeply impressed by the way she embraces each role with natural ease: leader, mentor, friend. She is always open, ready to help, never demanding, never expecting anything in return. This blend of professionalism, vision, and generosity makes Felicia not just a role model but also a source of inspiration for all who know her.
This is just a glimpse into her story. Through this interview, I aim to unravel a bit of the mystery surrounding Felicia Akkaya and offer those who have not yet had the chance to meet her—and myself—the opportunity to better understand who she truly is.
How would you describe yourself in just a few words?
Ambitious, curious, and with a healthy dose of perfectionism (sometimes annoying for those around me, I admit!). I love learning, building things, and believing that every day brings a new lesson. Oh, and I am a big fan of planning—but life always shows me that not everything can be neatly placed in colorful tables!
What was Felicia like as a child? What did you enjoy doing?
I was the kind of child who asked a thousand questions and never accepted a simple “because that’s just how it is!” I loved reading, playing “business” (I tried selling my drawings to my parents), and if I was left alone, I would create my own stories and scenarios. In short, I dreamed big and believed that anything was possible—a mindset I still try to keep today.
If you no longer had to work at all, what would an ordinary day look like for you?
Let’s be honest—I don’t think I could ever completely stop doing something useful. But if I were to have a more relaxed pace, I would start my morning with a good coffee (without the usual rush), read something interesting, spend time with my family, and travel. I would learn new things just for the sake of learning, without deadlines or stress.
How do you choose your businesses and projects?
Very simply: if I wake up in the morning excited about a project, it’s a good sign. If I feel like I’m forcing myself to do it, it’s a bad sign. I choose things that challenge me, that make sense, and that can create change. Money is important, but if a project doesn’t also bring emotional fulfillment, it just becomes a job. And I don’t want a job—I want a mission.
What do you consider a “waste of time”?
Complaining instead of looking for solutions. Spending hours on social media without realizing where the time went. Wasting energy on people who don’t inspire you or who drain your enthusiasm. In short, anything that doesn’t bring you value and leaves you thinking, “Why did I even do that?”
But what is time invested wisely?
Any activity that helps me grow. Learning, meeting new people, creating something useful, helping someone, laughing with my family. And, of course, getting good sleep—I think we often underestimate the power of quality rest!
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned from education?
That you can’t force anyone to learn unless you spark their curiosity. Education isn’t about pouring information into someone’s head—it’s about showing them that learning is a superpower. And that, in fact, when you learn with joy, it doesn’t feel like “school” but rather an ongoing adventure.
Do you believe there’s a clear boundary between personal and professional life?
Not really. It’s like trying to separate sugar from coffee after you’ve mixed it. When you love what you do, it’s impossible not to think of new ideas even while on vacation. However, I do try to give myself breaks and be present in important moments with my loved ones. Balance is more of a continuous juggling act than a strict line.
Do you have a special self-care routine?
I’m not the type to spend hours in front of the mirror, but I do believe that self-care is an act of respect toward yourself. I have a few simple habits: a skincare routine, wearing clothes that make me feel good, and… drinking plenty of water! Other than that, I think attitude and inner state are the best “beauty products.”
How much has physical appearance helped you in your career?
Of course, we live in a world where first impressions matter, but I believe that after the first ten seconds, it’s no longer about how you look—it’s about what you convey. You can be the most elegant person in the room, but if you don’t have charisma, authenticity, and emotional intelligence, you won’t leave a lasting impression.
As a mother, how do you define success for your children?
I don’t think success is measured in diplomas or bank accounts but in how happy they are with what they do. I want them to be independent, to find their own path, and to have confidence in themselves. If they wake up excited about life and not just about “checking off responsibilities,” then they’ve succeeded.
What do you wish to leave behind?
I’d love for people to remember me as someone who made a difference. Not necessarily on a global scale, but in the lives of those I met. If I managed to inspire someone to believe in themselves more, to follow their dreams, or to see education as an adventure, then I consider my mission fulfilled.
