Yana Smaglo, a 30-year-old Ukrainian refugee, has made headlines after successfully securing investment on the popular BBC show, Dragons' Den. Having fled her war-torn home country with only a bag of belongings, Smaglo has since built a new life in Huddersfield with friends. She founded Nenya, a company that imports luxury clothing made in Ukraine, described as being crafted "with love and bravery." Smaglo's inspiring journey caught the attention of the BBC, leading to her participation in the show where she delivered a "heart-wrenching pitch."
Smaglo accepted a joint offer from Dragons Deborah Meaden and Steven Bartlett, who each invested £40,000 for a 5% share in Nenya. The company's impressive business model boasts 98 wholesale partners spanning three continents and features products in two department stores. With a yearly turnover of £100,000, Nenya's success is built on Smaglo's previous experience owning her own brand of womenswear in Ukraine.
The name "Nenya" translates to "motherland," symbolizing Smaglo's deep connection to her roots. Some of the five brands she distributes originally operated in Kharkiv but have since relocated their manufacturing to safer regions in western Ukraine. This strategic move has allowed Nenya to continue supporting Ukrainian craftsmanship despite ongoing challenges.
The Dragons' Den pitch captivated both the investors and the audience. Peter Jones described Smaglo's presentation as "inspiring," while Deborah Meaden praised the products as "luxury and lovely." This endorsement by seasoned entrepreneurs underscores the potential and quality of Nenya's offerings.
Smaglo's determination and resilience have been key drivers in her success. Reflecting on her journey, she stated:
"Let's say, when you lose everything that you worked for, your home and everything and you need to build your life again, this is driving you a lot." – Yana Smaglo
This sentiment resonates deeply with many who have faced similar adversities, showcasing the strength and tenacity required to rebuild from scratch.