By: Nicole Anderson

In the dynamic world of event management, few individuals have left a mark as indelible as Zhanna Vasenina. From her early days as a student in Moscow to her current stature as a global influencer, Zhanna’s journey is a testament to unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Early Beginnings

Zhanna’s career took root during her studies at Moscow University from 2001 to 2006, where she immersed herself in Advertising. It was here that her passion for event planning ignited, and her natural leadership abilities quickly became evident. Even as a student, Zhanna engaged in internships at prominent advertising agencies, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors.

While still a student, Zhanna was surprised by her passion for global creativity, participating in various competitions and the active life of the advertising department. Today Zhanna is among the  outstanding graduates of the faculty.

The first Career Steps

In 2002, Zhanna Vasenina joined IQ Marketing, a career-defining move. Her role as a project manager propelled IQ Marketing to prominence, overseeing 300+ events for  Russian and international brands, showcasing her creativity and ability to excel under pressure.

Innovating the Event Industry

In 2005, Zhanna Vasenina made a significant impact with the launch of eventcatalog.ru, a pioneering online platform designed to transform Russia’s event sector. This platform revolutionized event planning by offering a comprehensive directory of industry contacts and suppliers. Zhanna’s forward-thinking approach not only streamlined collaboration but also raised industry benchmarks, driving professional advancement across the sector.

Beyond its online presence, multiple print editions of the catalog were also circulated. This publication quickly became indispensable for event organizers nationwide, playing a pivotal role in shaping Russia’s competitive event landscape. It facilitated the emergence of event service providers, the establishment of new venues, and the introduction of innovative shows and technologies.

Leading Event Industry Insights

Zhanna Vasenina’s leadership reached new heights with event.ru, a premier information portal for event professionals. As Editor-in-Chief for a decade, she curated industry insights, case studies, and interviews, establishing event.ru as a trusted source of current information and insider analysis.

Each glossy issue of event.ru features exclusive interviews with leading event executives, detailed case studies, and reviews of successful events, making it a comprehensive resource for event management.

Beyond publication, event.ru fosters professional growth and advances the event industry by facilitating learning, knowledge exchange, and the adoption of innovative practices globally and within Russia. 

Photo Courtesy: Zhanna Vasenina

Celebrating Excellence

Zhanna Vasenina has transformed Russia’s event management industry as the founder of the esteemed “Event of the Year” award in 2011. This prestigious accolade recognizes exceptional achievements in event organization, setting new standards and fostering innovation within the field.

Since its inception, the “Event of the Year” award has become a cornerstone of the Russian event industry, attracting finest professionals annually to showcase right practices and creativity. Zhanna’s leadership has not only elevated industry standards but also instilled a competitive spirit among event organizers, inspiring them to innovate and deliver unforgettable experiences.

Under Zhanna Vasenina’s guidance, the award has evolved into a symbol of achievement, spotlighting the diverse talents within Russia’s dynamic event community. Her commitment to excellence continues to drive the advancement of event management standards nationwide.

Global Impact

Zhanna’s influence extends beyond Russia’s borders with the Global Event Forum, an annual gathering that convenes industry leaders from the CIS countries. This forum serves as a nexus for knowledge exchange, networking, and forging strategic alliances. Zhanna’s commitment to global collaboration underscores her role as a true visionary, shaping the future of event management on an international scale.

Founded by Zhanna Vasenina, the Global Event Forum serves as a nexus for industry leaders, offering a dynamic space for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and networking. Since its inception, this annual forum has been held in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Sochi, attracting over 2000 participants each year. Renowned for its diverse lineup of over 400 influential speakers and thought-provoking sessions, the forum has emerged as the largest platform of its kind in the region.

Educational Initiatives and Recognition

Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Zhanna is a sought-after speaker and lecturer at industry forums and conferences worldwide. Her contributions to academia include founding the Event Business Academy, uniting event professionals from diverse backgrounds to share expertise and insights.

Continued Innovation

Today, Zhanna remains at the forefront of the industry, organizing over 800 events globally and pioneering new educational platforms such as the acclaimed YouTube series. Her dedication to excellence has earned her accolades such as the Finest Producer award at the prestigious MUSIC BOX awards in 2018.

Expanding Horizons: New Challenges in Bali

In 2022, a change in geographical location brought Zhanna to Bali, where she assumed the role of Event & PR Director at PARQ. Amidst this tropical paradise, Zhanna not only solidified her reputation but also inspired her team to execute over 250 outstanding events. Under her guidance, PARQ has become a benchmark in event organization and PR on the island, setting new standards and raising the bar for the entire industry.

Own Agency: Innovations and Perspectives

In addition to her role at PARQ, Zhanna founded her own agency, June9, which quickly gained recognition for its ability to orchestrate exclusive high-profile events. Her professional achievements and personal dedication to each project make June9 the ideal partner for those who value quality and originality in every detail. 

Zhanna plans to continue her career in the United States and make her mark on the global events industry.

Looking Ahead

As Zhanna continues to evolve the landscape of event management, her vision and passion inspire countless professionals to elevate their craft. Her story is not just one of success but of transformation, where determination and innovation have reshaped an entire industry.

It is important to note that Zhanna has four sons and looks to the future with optimism.

Zhanna Vasenina’s journey from a student with a vision to a global leader in event management exemplifies the power of entrepreneurship and the profound impact of visionary leadership. Her story continues to inspire, setting a benchmark for excellence in the ever-evolving world of events.

Published by: Holy Minoza