The nationwide business reality show Supernova is two years old, with the third season soon to premiere on RU.TV. Nadezhda Lysenko, the leader and founder of Supernova, discusses the project’s objectives and the elements of a woman’s success.
Nadezhda, what issues does Supernova address? Let’s remember that this is an MTS company project.
Supernova is the first business reality show for women in our country. Its primary objective is to showcase the number of talented women in Russia and their potential for success. In the first season, we received more than 2,000 applications. The finalists were 20 women from diverse fields such as veterinary clinics, flower shops, educational centers, and so on. The winner received RUB 5 mln to implement her dream project, while the rest had a unique opportunity to refine their business ideas with industry professionals and experts, along with the MTS team. In the second season, 14 finalists were chosen, but the prize money increased to RUB 10 mln. In 2023, the Supernova project was recognized as significant and awarded the RU.TV prize.
And you were honored with the National Women Leaders 2024 Award. So, you must certainly know the secrets of a successful woman?
I would say this: the power of a successful woman lies in her ability to constantly adapt to new realities. I personally live by the principle that “a rolling stone gathers no moss.” You can’t just sit idle and wait for things to change. You need to take initiative, be proactive, take risks, and step out of your comfort zone.
You are an advisor to the MTS president on cultural and social matters. What falls within your purview?
I’ve held this position since 2022, and initially, my duties included creating high-quality social content. But the tasks are constantly expanding. Today, in addition to Supernova, I’m also involved in another exciting initiative — the MTS Live Creative Laboratory based at the Gogol Theater. This involves joint performances by the theater’s director’s laboratory and students from RITA-GITIS.
Winner of numerous prestigious beauty pageants, including Mrs. Universe 2016 — and a mother of three. How do you balance your active professional life with family?
In 2016, I also won the Mrs. Moscow and Mrs. Russia pageants. My children were very young at the time, and it was much more challenging than it is now. Now Felix is 15, Vera is 13, and Marusya is 11 years old. And we all make a great team, with a one-for-all and all-for-one spirit! In 2016, I separated from their father, and since then, I have been a free, happy, and independent woman. My children are my family and my pillar of support.
What do you envision for their future? How do you motivate them to achieve?
My principle is to respect their choices and give them the freedom to decide their paths. My role is to provide them with an education and broaden their horizons. Vera is already a star of catalogs, the face of several brands, and she made it to the Top 10 most beautiful children in the world. And one day she said, “I want to be a dentist.” Then she decided to become a pastry chef, and now she wants to be a landscape designer. Felix, who was passionate about hockey and has been on the podium several times, is now more inclined towards computer science. And Marusya is a good artist. I appreciate that they are growing into independent, thoughtful individuals who don’t require excessive supervision from me.
You have a background as a professional singer. You recently recorded the single “Angel.” Do you plan to resume your active artistic career?
Yes, I’m prepared for it. After all, I’m an honored artist. After my children were born, I voluntarily stepped back from my singing career and touring. But now we’ve mutually decided that I will return to the stage. And in April, I released the music video for “Angel.” This beautiful song was gifted to me by Andrey and Valeri Birbichadze (Te100steron band). I’ve already signed a contract with MTS Label to release at least four tracks within a year. Music is my soul; it’s what I live and breathe.
Do you have time for hobbies and interests? How do you prefer to relax?
I strive to make every day full of experiences and never postpone my desires for later. Fishing is my first hobby. My father, a passionate fisherman, introduced me to this pastime. And also playing backgammon. Yes, indeed — I can beat anyone! I love mushroom picking in the forest with my children. And, of course, traveling. Last summer, we drove from Moscow to Abkhazia. Next on our list is Altai.
Where do you draw your energy and inspiration from?
My primary source of inspiration is my children. Also, the people who believe in me, my friends. The support and approval of my loved ones give me the energy to keep moving forward.
Photo: Natali Alsenova, archives of business reality “Sverkhnovaya”; Style: Galina Nikolaeva
