Scholastic and Arts Solutions - Oksana Management Group

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in musical education but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Oksana Kolesnikova, Founder of Oksana Management Group, Inc., located in Valencia, CA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I own and operate three businesses: Oksana Management Group, Inc., Oksana Franchising International, Inc., and Oksana Foundation. Oksana Management Group, Inc. provides online and in-person private lessons and after-school enrichment programs for music lessons (piano, voice, guitar, etc.), foreign languages (Spanish, Italian, French, etc.), K-12 academic tutoring (all subjects), as well as other programs such as Financial Literacy for children and teens, Art, Chess, Acting/Drama, Steam, Science, Fitness. They work with schools, school districts, and municipalities, as well as with private, individual clients. Oksana Franchising International, Inc. awards education-based franchises in 35 states. They offer private one-on-one lessons for students and After-School Enrichment programs for public, private, and charter schools.

The customers of my business are parents of children who are interested in after-school enrichment programs, private lessons, and academic tutoring. The organizations partner with schools, school districts, and municipalities, including the City of Beverly Hills, to provide children with additional educational and cultural opportunities. Celebrities and high-end clientele are also among their customers. The Oksana Foundation provides scholarships and grants to children who cannot afford any kind of after-school enrichment programming.

Tell us about yourself

I am a classically trained pianist, composer, and entrepreneur who founded Oksana® Enrichment Programs, a comprehensive educational program that provides a wide range of music and language instruction, tutoring, and academic enrichment services to students of all ages and skill levels. My passion for music started at a young age when I began taking piano lessons. After moving to the United States in 1992, I continued to pursue my passion for music and education by teaching private piano lessons and eventually founding my own music school.

Over time, I recognized that there was a need for a more comprehensive approach to education that went beyond just music instruction. I started to develop a curriculum for music and language instruction, tutoring, and academic enrichment, with the goal of providing a well-rounded education that would help students succeed in all areas of their lives. Today, I am motivated by a desire to help students reach their full potential and to make a positive impact on their lives. I am dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized instruction that meets the unique needs of each student, and I take great pride in the success of my students and the reputation of my brand.

I am often driven by a passion for my work and a desire to make a difference in the world. I have identified a need in the market and a problem that I am passionate about solving. I am often a risk-taker and have a strong desire for independence and control over my work and my life. In addition, I have a strong work ethic, and I am willing to put in long hours and hard work to achieve my goals.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

As a business owner, I have accomplished many challenging feats, including expanding my business into multiple locations, building a loyal customer base, and launching a franchise program. However, my biggest accomplishment may be the impact I have had on the lives of my students and the community at large.

Through my enrichment programs, I have inspired and nurtured the talents of countless students, helping them to reach their full potential in music, foreign languages, and academics. I have also been a dedicated philanthropist, using my business and platform to support charitable causes and give back to the community.

In addition to my business accomplishments, I have also achieved success as a pianist, composer, and performer. I have released several albums and have performed at prestigious venues around the world. Overall, my biggest accomplishment is the positive impact I have had on the lives of others, both through her business and my artistic talents.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is the level of responsibility and decision-making required. Business owners have to make many tough decisions on a daily basis, from choosing which suppliers to work with to deciding on product pricing and marketing strategies. They also have to be responsible for the financial health of their business, which includes managing cash flow, paying taxes, and ensuring that all expenses are within budget. Additionally, business owners often have to work long hours and may experience stress and uncertainty about the future success of their business. Balancing all of these responsibilities and staying motivated can be a significant challenge for many business owners.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Sure, here are three tips for starting, running, and growing a business:

Do your market research: Before you start your business, make sure there is a market for your product or service. Research your competition, identify your target customers, and determine what sets your business apart.
Build a strong team: As your business grows, you'll need to build a team that can help you achieve your goals. Hire people who share your vision and have the skills and experience you need. Make sure you communicate your expectations clearly and build a culture of trust and respect.
Stay adaptable: Running a business is never easy, and there will be times when you need to pivot your strategy or change your approach. Be prepared to adapt to new challenges and opportunities as they arise, and be open to feedback from your customers and team members. Stay agile and keep your focus on your long-term goals.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://oksanaenrichment.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pianistoksana
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omgoksana/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omgoksana/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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