Valentina Gurova is the CEO of an international PR agency that has specialized in PR, marketing, and advertising management for stars, bloggers, and public figures for over 20 years. Her agency, www.praliyans.com, collaborates with many of the world's leading glossy magazines, as well as TV and radio shows. The agency has a large in-house production team capable of handling a wide range of creative projects, from music videos to major campaigns and coverstories. The agency works with world stars such as Maya Musk, Monica Bellucci, Toni Braxton, Uma Thurman, Steve Aoki and many others.         
In the near future, our agency plans to create a comprehensive international platform for professionals in the media sector. This platform will facilitate the rapid exchange of the latest IT technologies, news, and contacts within the industry, particularly in light of the current challenges posed by border closures and the decline in circulation and distribution of printed publications. Our goal is to work together to overcome the crisis, train young specialists, and maintain professional engagement among experienced professionals

Team: 
Photo by Pavel Makarenko @pavelmakarenko 
Interview: Nick Gurov @n_gurov 
Dress: @try.on.dress.uae 
Studio: @13moons_studio 
Hero: Valentina Gurova CEO of www.praliyans.com

How did you start your career in PR? What attracted you to this field?
When I started, almost noone knew what the job of a PR agent was, there were only 15 agencies in Russia. Back when I was still a university student, I visited an exhibition featuring books on advertising and PR, lectures and, of course, professionals who were willing to share their experience: and right at the exhibition I applied for an internship at one of those agencies. The new job took over my life to the point that I was practically drowning in it: during the day I was torn between lectures at the university and trips to the office; at night, I would study copywriting and read anything I could find on PR in Russia. I was fortunate enough to almost immediately become part of the team of a major political project: the gubernatorial elections. I had to work around the clock in order to make time for everything, but since this was my calling, I forgot about sleep. I still look back at those times with fondness!

Do you have any hobbies that relax or inspire you?
My life’s passions are tennis and drums. When I play drums my mind calms down, thoughts flowing slower. Concentration on rhythm distracts from routine and problems, allowing me to cherish the moment here and now. All worries and anxieties go by the wayside and I easily immerse into music. Tennis is my passion as well: it strengthens the faith in yourself, in your body and your power. You start to feel that you can get through all the difficulties both on the court and in your life. I love tennis as it reveals my strength, character and develops my physical and mental skills. This game allows me to become better every day and enjoy my life.