by Zanita Careem

Head of the Russian Cultural Center in Colombo and First Secretary of the Russian Embassy in Sri Lanka, Madam Maria L. Popova, a warm persona with a genuine interest in people, which transpires through every action or word she shares. Right from the beginning of our conversation Popova revealed her deeply human, affectionate, optimistic and vibrant personality. She brought a common touch to each interaction, expressing her authentic interest in the culture of Sri Lanka. She spoke about the shared values between Sri Lanka and Russia, stating that the two countries appreciate many similar aspects like the freedom of speech, women’s empowerment, cultural activities and other important issues.

Q. Please tell us about your career

A. I came to Sri Lanka two years ago, to work as a cultural diplomat. Before becoming part of the worldwide Russian House team, I worked for a large media holding in Russia called the Moscow Media, consisting of two TV channels and three radio stations, one of which is the city’s main station Moscow FM. During those years I’ve worked in different fields – as an editor, a news producer for the English-speaking radio station Capital FM, a news presenter and interpreter for the TV channel Moscow-24, and finally, as an executive producer of the entire Radio Department. It was a truly invaluable experience, and all these skills are helping me a lot in my diplomatic career today.

Q. Tell us about a time when you professional and family responsibilities came into conflict?

A. I’m one of those lucky women who has never faced those challenges. I’m blessed to have a husband who is like a modern-day Prince Charming. I mean not only his looks, but the fact that he has always supported me in every way, especially in my career. Unfortunately, we don’t get to spend much time together as he mostly lives in Moscow because of his job. But every time we meet – it’s almost like a fairytale. And maybe that’s one of the staples of our happy marriage. Despite the fact that we’re apart, we always have each other’s backs.

Of course, juggling between personal life and a career is not always a walk in the park. It is competitive and challenging and it takes up a lot of energy, but I always try to live up to my expectation, and participate meaningfully in every facet of office work. My son lives with me in Colombo, and he somehow studies in two schools, one of which is distant learning under the Russian curriculum. My trials and tribulations echo many of the daily challenges, but on the other hand, such hectic lifestyle keeps me toned and energized 24 hours a day.

Q. Can you comment on the cultural activities in Sri Lanka?

A. I really respect and admire Sri Lankan culture. Our two nations share many values and traditions, and I made it a point to observe all the important holidays, both Russian and Sri Lankan, at the Russian Cultural Center. This year we had beautiful celebrations of Awurudu and Vesak. We are steeped in history and culture, and it’s one of the best ways to highlight and entwine the cultures of our two friendly countries.

The culture of Sri Lanka is mostly based around the fusion of traditional forms of art, dance and music. One of the spectacular events that impressed me most was the stunning Navam Maha Perahera showcasing traditional local art, colourful costumes, and intricate dance displays. It was definitely the most amazing cultural pageant I’ve seen in my life. It was like a celebration of culture and spirituality epitomizing the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful island.

I also greatly enjoyed the Colombo Fashion Week this year. The talent and artistry of local designers were so unique – each runway show reflected the authentic charm of this beautiful island. I can feel the changes in every aspect of the local fashion industry.

And speaking of runways, this April I was honoured to take part in the Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations organized by the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry. It was an unforgettable experience for the diplomats – to meet with other officials representing different countries – and to walk the runway demonstrating Sri Lanka’s top designer outfits. I proudly wore a traditional handcrafted Saree.

Q. Can you share an experience professionally or otherwise that helped shape your leadership qualities?

A. As a mother with a full-time job, meetings and events, every day is a challenge! It requires courage and astuteness at all times. These positive vibes have added up to shape my leadership qualities. I believe I have to be strong, competent and create an impression. My motto is: Dedication, Determination, Drive. These combined together definitely add to my personality.

Q. Who are your role models?

A. Speaking of my real-life heroines, both of my grandmothers had a great impact on my life. I was named after my mother’s mom Maria, and she has been the trailblazer for my upbringing. Grandma Maria has given me so much love and comfort, she was the epitome of femininity, kindness and compassion. These qualities I hope I have inherited, live on even though she passed away more than twenty years ago. I still cherish her memories.

My other grandma Eugenia was a teacher of the Russian language and literature, and she had a major impact on my early education. In a way, she influenced my career. I started promoting the Russian language in Sri Lanka in honor of her memory, as well.

As for my role models – young Brigitte Bardot and Catherine Deneuve, the two iconic French actresses have become my source of inspiration over the years. I really admire their faultless style, chic elegance, and their leadership skills. I try to resemble their style and fashion.

Q. What is the most memorable and cherished incident in your career?

A. What I love most about my job is that I get to meet new people every day. I could never imagine how many treasures this paradise island had in stock for me when I first came here. I have a great team, wonderful colleagues, and I continuously make new friends. My career has given me an opportunity to meet many talented people – ballerinas, film directors, musicians, writers, and businessmen. And I’m glad that all of them left a trace in the history of the Russian House in Colombo.

Q. Have you ever been faced with a proverbial glass ceiling and how has diplomatic training helped you to resolve it?

A. I have never experienced any kinds of invisible barriers in my career. I was always lucky to have colleagues who respected me and my work ethics – just as I have always respected the work ethics and the feeling of others. When being a boss, it is especially important to take emotions into consideration.

Q. Have you ever been subject to sexual harassment and if so, how did you handle it?

A. The truth is, sometimes women have to fight barriers and work harder in order to rise to top positions. As for my personal experience, I have never encountered sexual harassment in any form. I have always handled the challenges of working within male-dominated circles – diplomatic or otherwise. The key to working among men is to be professional, punctual, and simply be a good listener.

Q. Tell us about your experiences in politics and diplomacy.

A. I think that my career was predestined as I come from a diplomatic background. I’ve lived, studied and worked abroad – first with my parents as a child in Canada, later on with my husband in the US. Therefore, international environment fits me like a glove. You may say that I carried on the family tradition by coming to Sri Lanka and heading the Russian Cultural Centre. I’m also a graduate of the Moscow State Institute of Foreign Relations, and I speak two foreign languages, so it went without saying that the combination of all these factors was the direct path to diplomacy.

Like most women, I’m not big in politics – I deal with education and culture, which makes me very happy. I have an unconditional love for my country, and I’m proud to represent its rich culture and traditions, to promote its top-quality higher education and create more opportunities for the friendly people of Sri Lanka. This is me today. And this is what I always wanted to be – a cultural diplomat.

Q. How can the diplomatic service best improve their gender balance over the next few years?

A. I think the role of women in diplomacy has a lot of potential. Women form the backbone of society and play a crucial role in every life sphere. There are still structural issues that impede the promotion of women to senior positions, but in today’s complex societal challenges from climate change to pandemics, female leaders are equally represented and gender equality principles is widely integrated all over the world.

Q. Your stay in Sri Lanka and what do you enjoy most?

A. I absolutely love Sri Lanka! I call it “The Paradise Island” or sometimes “The Treasure Island” as I have found so many gems here. In a way, the Russian House in Colombo has become my second home.

I remember when I first came to Sri Lanka two years ago, it welcomed me with flowers and sunshine. Sri Lanka is well renowned for its hospitality, golden beaches, salubrious climate, cultural delights, and incredible diversity. These are the reasons I fell in love with this island.

Sri Lanka accepts me for who I am today, putting a smile on my face every morning. And that’s what I love most about this place… simply being happy!