We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Khadija Ashurova Bellio a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Khadija, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What do you think it takes to be successful?

Success requires discipline, consistency, and a clear sense of purpose. To me, it’s about setting goals and taking the necessary steps to achieve them, no matter how small those steps might seem at first. Staying organized and proactive is key whether it’s managing your time, staying on top of tasks, or ensuring financial responsibilities are met.

One personal example is my approach to managing bills and emails. I make it a point to check and clear all my emails first thing in the morning, even when nothing urgent is expected. This habit keeps me in control and avoids unnecessary stress. Similarly, paying bills on time and tracking my finances gives me peace of mind and helps me focus on bigger goals. These small but consistent practices create a foundation for success, whether in personal life or career.

In my career as a QA tester and through running my mentoring program, I’ve seen how preparation and a commitment to growth make a difference. When you’re organized and persistent, opportunities align with your efforts, and success becomes more attainable.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I run KhadijaTalks, a mentoring program based in Azerbaijan designed to help young adults, students, and school-aged individuals unlock their potential and work toward becoming the best versions of themselves. My passion for growth and development inspired me to create a space where I could guide others on their personal and professional journeys.

The program provides mentorship, career guidance, and skill-building opportunities tailored to the unique needs of individuals. I focus on helping participants gain clarity about their goals, build confidence, and develop the practical tools they need to succeed in their chosen paths. Whether it’s preparing for a career, improving communication skills, or overcoming self-doubt, I work to address the challenges they face with actionable strategies and personalized support.

What sets KhadijaTalks apart is the personal touch and genuine investment in the growth of each mentee. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all program; I take the time to understand each mentee’s needs and aspirations, offering tailored advice and encouragement. My ability to draw from my own professional experiences in QA, HR, Finance, Psychology, and mentoring allows me to connect with a wide range of individuals, from those just starting their journey to those seeking to refine their direction.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the positive impact the program has had on mentees. Watching someone step into their confidence and achieve their goals is incredibly rewarding. KhadijaTalks isn’t just about helping people achieve success; it’s about empowering them to sustain it, inspiring them to pay it forward, and fostering a mindset of lifelong learning and self-improvement.

For anyone considering joining the program or learning more, I’d want them to know that KhadijaTalks is built on a foundation of authenticity, encouragement, and actionable results. It’s not just mentorship it’s a growth partnership, designed to help individuals realize their true potential and make meaningful strides toward their goals.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

What has helped me build my reputation within my market is consistency, authenticity, and a strong commitment to the people I mentor. Through KhadijaTalks, I’ve created an environment where mentees feel genuinely supported. I focus on delivering value by addressing their unique challenges and offering tailored, actionable advice that leads to tangible growth.

My ability to connect on a personal level has been a significant factor. I make it a priority to understand each mentee’s aspirations and struggles, and I offer guidance that’s both practical and encouraging. This personalized approach shows that I’m genuinely invested in their success, which has helped me gain trust and credibility over time.

Additionally, my background in psychology, along with my work experience, lends professional credibility to the advice and strategies I share. I don’t just provide theoretical guidance I offer practical, real-world insights that mentees can apply immediately. By being reliable and delivering on what I promise, I’ve been able to build a reputation for dependability and meaningful results.

Lastly, I’ve consistently emphasized the importance of growth and empowerment in every interaction. Whether through individual mentorship or larger sessions, I focus on inspiring mentees to see their own potential and take charge of their future. This focus on empowerment has led to positive word of mouth and a growing base of participants who trust the program and value what KhadijaTalks offers.

Any advice for managing a team?

Managing a team and maintaining high morale starts with genuinely caring for your team members, both professionally and personally. Support them in their career growth while respecting their personal lives. Take the time to listen, provide constructive feedback, and encourage development at every step.

Celebrate successes, big or small, and be flexible when needed, this shows your team that you value their contributions and understand their individual needs. Leading with empathy, building trust, and fostering an environment where growth is prioritized are essential to creating a motivated and resilient team.

Contact Info:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kadijashur